Signs & Symptoms of Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis can be a debilitating condition. An acute exacerbation of this condition, also known as AECB, is when the symptoms of this bronchitis suddenly worsen without warning. The airways are narrowed even further than normal and more mucous is produced, causing difficulty breathing and further medical problems. If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, there's a good chance your condition has been exacerbated.

Shortness of Breath

• Since the airways in your lungs are more constricted due to the inflammation caused by bronchitis it may be hard to breathe anyway. If you begin to experience further shortness of breath, difficulty catching your breath or the inability to take deep breaths, you may be experiencing acute exacerbation of your condition.

Coughing

• If you notice a more persistent cough, a cough that hurts or a cough that you cannot get under control, your bronchitis has probably been exacerbated by some kind of irritant. If you begin to experience this cough, seek medical attention.

Sputum

• Typically, with an exacerbation of bronchitis, you will begin to notice more production of sputum, or mucous. If this mucous is a lot thicker in consistency than normal or is yellowish or greenish in color, your body is trying to tell you something. If you see streaks of blood in the phlegm you are spitting up, seek medical attention immediately.

Weakness

• Even if you do not notice shortness of breath, if you've experienced an exacerbation of your condition you may notice that you are a lot weaker than usual. Regardless of your breathing troubles, this weakness is probably related to decreased oxygen levels due to restricted airways.

Fever

• If you begin to consistently feel chilled and are running a fever, your body is trying to tell you that something is wrong. A fever is nothing to ignore and can be a serious medical condition if neglected.

  If you experience any of the above, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If not treated, there is a good chance your bronchitis could turn into pneumonia or another more serious medical condition.