Several things happen when the tubes become inflamed. The tube decreases in width. This means that for every breath, less air can be taken in. The tubes have a muscular layer that is able to open them wider to take in extra air; these muscles can also close up the tubes. When the structure of the tubes becomes swollen and sore, they become less able to take in air and respond to changes in activity.

The tubes often also become clogged up with fluids due to having a smaller space. The body uses these fluids to help exchange oxygen and when more help is needed, more fluid is generated. Since the tubes can't move air well, the fluid tends to build up and become thicker. How does the body remove fluids? One way is that it coughs them up to clear the pipes.

The bronchioles are usually irritated by a viral infection caused by a cold or flu. The average person will take about two to three weeks to clear out the plumbing in the lungs. A person who is older or whose lungs are compromised may take two or three months to clear up their chest. The chest can continue to be inflamed after the virus which caused the effect is long gone.

Common symptoms are coughing, shortness of breath, heavy breathing, faster breathing, whistles and rubs and increased fatigue from all this extra work. Many sufferers find it difficult to sleep or lay down due to cough and shortness of breath making the sufferer more exhausted. Other symptoms less associated with bronchitis are changes in temperament, chest pain with cough, general body aches, hoarseness, sore throat, lack of appetite, decreased ability to focus and inability to do normal activities of living. The skin color may become very white or even bluish. Many patients will become sweaty or clammy.

If the bronchitis does not resolve, the fluid involved often becomes infected by bacteria after several weeks. This will result in a high fever and worsening problems with breathing. The fluid in the lungs becomes a great medium to grow bacteria. The bacteria very quickly leads in even more fluid and inflammation in the lung tissues. This can become a major medical issue very quickly and should be treated by a doctor as soon as possible. Lungs closed up with thick fluids cannot exchange air even with a respirator. The respirator tubes cannot be inserted in tubing that is already full of fluid.

Normally, bronchitis caused by a virus will get better on its own. However, after two weeks if you are not improving, it is time to see your doctor and follow his advice. Lungs must be taken care of because they are simply irreplaceable. Lungs are vital to life.