What is the primary cause of bronchitis?

The primary cause of bronchitis is indeed characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes. This inflammation leads to symptoms such as coughing, mucus production, and difficulty breathing. Bronchitis can be triggered by various factors, but when we consider the overarching cause, the inflammatory process in the bronchial tubes is central to the condition.

In many cases, bronchitis develops after viral infections that cause inflammation, which is why it's often associated with respiratory infections. However, the inflammation itself is what defines bronchitis, making it the primary cause. Other factors, such as injuries to the lungs or bacterial infections, can contribute to this condition, but they are not the root cause of bronchitis. Thus, understanding that inflammation of the bronchial tubes is at the core of bronchitis provides a clearer view of the condition's etiology.