(HealthDay News) -- Bronchitis occurs when the airways to the lungs become inflamed. The condition can be either acute (which typically follows a respiratory infection) or chronic (it persists and recurs).

Here are suggestions to help keep chronic bronchitis at bay, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

• Quit smoking.
• Reduce exposure to harsh chemicals, pollutants and other substances that can irritate the lungs.
• Get flu and pneumonia vaccines each year, as recommended by your doctor.
• Attend respiratory therapy that includes physical activity and breathing exercises.