Bronchitis - Uncomplicated Acute Initial Assessment

Clinical Presentation

Signs and symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) include cough and/or increase in sputum production, breathlessness or wheezing, chest pain or aches, sweats and/or sore throat, and an increase in temperature.  

The predominant symptom of uncomplicated bronchitis is cough with or without sputum production that persists for less than 3 Influenza (flu) virus typically causes a non-productive cough, and if the cough persists for more than 3 weeks, investigation of other diagnoses should be considered, such as tuberculosis in endemic areas. Sputum may be clear, white, yellow, green, or even blood-tinged. Green or yellow (purulent) sputum production is indicative of an inflammatory reaction that can result from either viral or bacterial infection. Cough may be accompanied by clinical features that suggest an acute respiratory tract infection, such as sore throat, rhinorrhea, and hoarseness. The patient may also present with retrosternal chest pain when coughing, dyspnea, wheezing, fever, fatigue, or night cough.

Bronchitis - Uncomplicated Acute_Initial Assesment

History

In history taking, it is important to perform a complete and detailed medical history including tobacco use and exposure to respiratory infections or toxic inhalants.

Physical Examination

Wheezing, rhonchi, coarse rales, a prolonged expiratory phase, or other obstructive signs may be present on physical examination. Forced expiration may be done to detect wheezing.

Diagnosis or Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnosis of acute uncomplicated bronchitis is based on clinical findings.