What does bronchitis mean and what are its types?

Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs. The term combines bronch meaning bronchial tubes and itis meaning inflammation. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viral infections and resolves within a few weeks with symptoms of cough, mucus production, and chest discomfort. Chronic bronchitis is defined as a productive cough lasting at least three months in two consecutive years and is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.