Symptoms of bronchitis are similar to several other respiratory conditions, so in order to assess your symptoms, it’s a good idea to become more familiar with bronchitis symptoms so you can share them with your doctor and he or she can arrive at a quick diagnosis.

Coughing
Bronchitis occurs when an irritant, such as smoke, pollution or bacteria, affects the lining of the bronchial tubes. The irritation makes the tissues swell and the body produces excess mucus as a reaction. As the lungs try to clear out the mucus, coughing occurs to force the mucus and irritants up and out. Bronchitis is typically characterized by coughs that produce yellow, green or clear mucus.

Respiratory Challenges
Bronchitis often means that patients suffer with wheezing and shortness of breath. When the bronchial tubes are constricted and plugged with mucus, it is harder for air to pass through them, causing a wheezing sound. The shortness of breath is also due to the restrictions on the airways. A tightness of the chest is another symptom of bronchitis. Acute bronchitis usually lasts for 7 to 14 days before the body can completely expel it.

Fever and Chills
Because bronchitis is often an infection from a bacteria or virus, the body reacts by producing a fever and chills. Fatigue and slight nausea are also signs that the body is fighting a fairly serious infection. These symptoms of bronchitis are common in both acute and chronic bronchitis.

Chronic Bronchitis
The symptoms for chronic bronchitis also include coughing, mucus and respiratory problems, but there are other significant symptoms surrounding the condition. Coughs that are worse in damp weather are a sign of chronic bronchitis, as are coughs that get worse in the morning or after exercise. Secondary ailments in relation to the bronchitis are also common, such as frequent chest colds or influenza, asthma or pneumonia. Severe cases may also include coughing up bloody mucus and chronic lung and heart issues. These symptoms will grow increasingly worse, resulting in further complications.