Symptoms of Bronchitis
Symptoms of bronchitis often mimic those of a common cold or chest infection, but the key feature is a persistent cough that produces mucus. The most typical symptoms of bronchitis include coughing with phlegm, chest discomfort, wheezing, shortness of breath, and mild fever. Symptoms may vary in severity depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
The main symptom is a cough that lasts for several days or even weeks. In acute bronchitis, the cough is initially dry but becomes productive over time, bringing up yellow or green mucus. The cough may worsen at night and cause difficulty sleeping.
Chest pain or a burning sensation may occur due to the constant coughing. Some patients also experience tightness in the chest, which may be mistaken for heart-related discomfort. However, bronchitis-related chest pain typically worsens during coughing fits or deep breathing.
Wheezing — a whistling sound when breathing — is often present, especially in children or adults with underlying asthma or smoking history. It indicates narrowing of the airways due to inflammation.
Shortness of breath can occur if the airways are clogged with mucus. This is more common in chronic bronchitis or during acute flare-ups in patients with underlying lung conditions.
Symptoms of bronchitis
Other symptoms include fatigue, mild chills, low-grade fever, sore throat, and nasal congestion. These flu-like symptoms usually improve after a few days, but the cough often lingers.
In chronic bronchitis, symptoms persist for at least three months and typically worsen in the morning or during cold weather. Patients may have frequent respiratory infections and progressively declining lung function over time.
Blood-streaked mucus is rare and may signal a more serious issue such as pneumonia or lung cancer. Any such symptom should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Recognising symptoms of bronchitis early helps with timely treatment and monitoring — especially in older adults, smokers, or those with chronic respiratory conditions.
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