Which abnormal lung condition is associated with increased production of mucus?

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough that produces mucus due to inflammation of the bronchial tubes. This inflammation typically arises from long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke or environmental pollutants. The increased production of mucus in chronic bronchitis is excessive and often leads to obstruction of airflow, contributing to respiratory difficulties.

In contrast, while asthma can also involve mucus production, it primarily features bronchoconstriction and hyperreactivity rather than the chronic mucus overproduction seen in chronic bronchitis. Emphysema is primarily characterized by the destruction of alveoli and is more about the loss of elastic recoil rather than mucus production. Pneumonia involves inflammation of the lung tissue often due to infection, which might cause some mucus production, but it is not a defining characteristic of the condition like it is in chronic bronchitis.

Thus, the correct association of increased mucus production specifically points to chronic bronchitis as a hallmark of the disease, making it the appropriate choice.