Definition
- Chronic bronchitis is a clinical diagnosis of sputum expectoration on most days during at least three consecutive months for ≥2 consecutive years
Signs and Symptoms
- Symptoms of exacerbation are increase in dyspnea, sputum volume and sputum purulence over baseline
Risk Factors for Exacerbations
- Tracheobronchial infections (eg influenza, streptococcal infection)
- Environmental or inhalational exposures (eg air pollution, smoking)
- Noncompliance with inhaled bronchodilator therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation program