Chronic bronchitis
Alternative Names
Bronchitis - chronic
Symptoms
- Cough that produces mucus (sputum), which may be blood streaked
- Shortness of breath aggravated by exertion or mild activity
- Frequent respiratory infections that worsen symptoms
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Ankle, foot, and leg swelling that affects both sides
- Headaches
Exams and Tests
To be diagnosed with chronic bronchitis, the cough and excessive mucus production must have occurred for 3 months or more in at least 2 consecutive years and not be due to any other disease or condition.
Tests to diagnose chronic bronchitis include:
- Pulmonary function tests
- Arterial blood gas
- Chest x-ray
- Pulse oximetry (oxygen saturation testing)
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Exercise testing
- Chest CT scan
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