Carlos sees the doctor because he has been having a hard time breathing and has been coughing up a lot of fluid. The doctor diagnoses Carl with bronchitis. What does this mean?
Bronchitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. Symptoms of bronchitis include difficulty breathing, coughing, and production of excessive mucus or fluid. In Carlos' case, his symptoms of breathing difficulty and coughing up fluid lead the doctor to diagnose him with bronchitis. The inflammation of the bronchial tubes can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, smoking, or exposure to environmental irritants. Treatment for bronchitis generally involves rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics if there is a bacterial infection present.
