What happens to cilia in chronic bronchitis?

In chronic bronchitis, the cilia in the respiratory tract become immobilized and reduced in number. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by prolonged inflammation of the airways, leading to an increase in mucus production. This excess mucus can impair the movement of cilia, which are tiny hair-like structures that line the airways and help clear mucus and debris from the lungs.

When cilia become immobilized, their ability to effectively clear mucus and pathogens is diminished, contributing to the accumulation of mucus in the airways. Over time, this can exacerbate the respiratory issues associated with chronic bronchitis, leading to continuous coughing and difficulty in breathing. Therefore, the immobilization and reduction of cilia are key factors in the pathophysiology of chronic bronchitis, significantly impacting lung function.