Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Coughing up mucus
- Coughing up mucus streaked with blood
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially after mild activity or exercise
- Recurring respiratory infections that cause symptoms to worsen
- Wheezing when breathing
- Fatigue
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, and legs on both sides
- Headaches
Diagnosis
To diagnose chronic bronchitis, symptoms of productive cough must have been present for three or more months in at least two consecutive years, and not have been caused by another condition. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
- Breathing tests to check lung function
- Arterial blood gas tests
- Chest x-ray —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the chest
- Blood tests to determine complete blood count and oxygen saturation of the blood
- Exercise stress testing to test lung function
- CT scan of the chest—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the chest
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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