Tracheobronchitis is an inflammation of the trachea and bronchi — the main airways that carry air to the lungs. It can be acute or chronic, and is often caused by:

Viral infections (most common, e.g., influenza, RSV, adenovirus)

Bacterial infections (e.g., Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Bordetella pertussis)

Irritants (e.g., smoke, chemicals, pollution)

Allergies or post-viral inflammation

Symptoms Persistent cough (may be dry or productive)

Chest discomfort

Wheezing or shortness of breath

Fever (more common in bacterial forms)

Hoarseness or sore throat if the upper airway is involved

Diagnosis Clinical evaluation

Sometimes chest X-ray to rule out pneumonia

Sputum culture or PCR in suspected bacterial or atypical causes

Treatment Supportive care: hydration, rest, analgesics

Bronchodilators if there's wheezing

Antibiotics: only if a bacterial cause is suspected

Corticosteroids: sometimes used in chronic or post-infectious inflammation

Prognosis Most cases resolve in 1–3 weeks without complications

Chronic tracheobronchitis (e.g., in smokers or patients with COPD) may require long-term management

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