What is the term for the acute or chronic inflammation of the lungs, often marked by cough and sputum production?

Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. This condition can manifest in both acute and chronic forms. Acute bronchitis is often caused by infections and is marked by symptoms such as a persistent cough and the production of sputum, which can indicate the presence of mucus. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, is characterized by a long-term cough that produces mucus for at least three months, frequently over two consecutive years. The inflammation results in narrowing of the air passages, leading to difficulty breathing and increased cough reflex.

The other terms provided are unrelated to the inflammation of the lungs. The diaphragm is a muscle essential for respiration but is not a condition affecting the lungs. The bubonic plague is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Yersinia pestis, which does not specifically denote inflammation of the lungs. Burnout refers to a psychological state of chronic stress and fatigue typically associated with work or personal challenges, not a medical condition of the respiratory system. Thus, bronchitis is the accurate term for the inflammation of lung structures characterized by cough and sputum production.