Bronchitis history and symptoms

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Bronchitis Main page
Patient Information
Overview
Causes
Classification Acute bronchitis Chronic bronchitis
Differential Diagnosis

History

• Bronchitis is common in patients with a history of smoking, low socio-economic status, residing in industrial or heavy pollutant areas, and exposure to toxic substance. Thus, obtaining a personal and socio-economic history is very important.
• Bronchitis is usually a diagnosis of exclusion. Thus, past medical history to rule out asthma, and allergic history is important.

Symptoms

The symptoms of either type of bronchitis may include:

• Cough with [[mucus](clear, yellow, green, or even blood-tinged). is the (commonest)symptoms. Initially it may be difficult to distinguish a acute bronchitis from upper respiratory tract infection. However, a cough lasting >5 days indicates a diagnosis of Bronchitis. Cough usually last for 1-2 weeks in acute bronchitis. A yellow-green, you are more likely to have a bacterial infection.
• Chest discomfort
• Fatigue, muscle aches
• Fever -- uncommon and may suggest other diagnosis for instance pneumonia or Influenza.
• Shortness of breath, worsened by exertion or mild activity
• Wheezing
• Sore throat, runny nose
• Difficulty in breathing and blue discoloration of extremities can be seen in late stages of the disease

Even after acute bronchitis has cleared, you may have a dry, nagging cough that lingers for several weeks.

Additional symptoms of chronic bronchitis include:

• Ankle, feet, and leg swelling
• Blue-colored lips from low levels of oxygen
• Frequent respiratory infections (such as colds or the flu)