Question
What are the potential dangers of tracheitis?
Answer
Tracheitis, especially chronic tracheitis, can pose various dangers to patients. Symptoms include coughing, excessive phlegm, and sometimes purulent sputum. During acute episodes, symptoms may worsen, leading to breathing difficulties. Long-term tracheitis may result in wheezing sounds, moist rales, and even swelling of the mucous membrane and glands. Additionally, blockage of mucus and exudates can cause wheezing. In some patients, due to the swelling of the mucous membrane and glands, the amount of sputum may decrease or disappear. Long-term tracheitis may also lead to the formation of chronic atrophic tracheitis, which may further affect respiratory function.