Bronchitis - chronic
Symptoms
- Cough that produces mucus (sputum), which may be blood streaked
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Shortness of breath aggravated by exertion or mild activity - Frequent
respiratory infections that worsen symptoms -
Wheezing - Fatigue
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Ankle, foot, and leg swelling that affects both sides - Headaches
Signs 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:
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Pulmonary function tests - Arterial blood gas
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Chest x-ray - Pulse oximetry (oxygen saturation testing)
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Complete blood count (CBC) - Exercise testing
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Chest CT scan
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