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June 19, 2013
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Bronchitis (cont.)

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Bronchitis Symptoms

Acute bronchitis most commonly occurs after an upper respiratory infection such as the common cold or a sinus infection. The affected person may have symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, nasal congestion, and sore throat.

  • Cough is the most common symptom of bronchitis. The cough may be dry or may produce phlegm. Significant phlegm production suggests that the lower respiratory tract and the lung itself may be infected, and these symptoms suggest pneumonia.
  • The cough may last for more than 2 weeks. Continued forceful coughing may be painful, and can make your chest and abdominal muscles sore. Coughing can be severe enough at times to injure the chest, break ribs,  wall or even cause a person to pass out (faint).
  • Wheezing may occur because of the muscular tightness and inflammation of the airways. This may leave the affected individual short of breath.
  • Asthmatic bronchitis symptoms include a combination of wheezing and shortness of breath, in addition to the other symptoms of bronchitis.

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Bronchitis - Length Symptoms Lasted

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Bronchitis - Symptoms

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Bronchitis »

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, or bronchi.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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