Chronic obstructive bronchitis is a diffuse inflammatory disease of the bronchi, characterized by early damage to the respiratory structures of the lung and leading to the formation of broncho-obstructive syndrome, diffuse pulmonary emphysema and progressive impairment of pulmonary ventilation and gas exchange, which are manifested by cough, shortness of breath and sputum production, not associated with other diseases of the lungs, heart, blood system, etc.