Symptoms and Complications
An acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis is associated with increased frequency and severity of coughing, and is often accompanied by worsened chest congestion and discomfort. If the acute exacerbation is due to a bacterial infection, the sputum may be slightly streaked with blood and colored yellow or green. In many cases of AECB, shortness of breath and wheezing are present. People suffering from an acute exacerbation caused by infection may feel weak and have fever and chills. Doctors may recommend a chest X-ray for people with fever and especially with blood in their sputum to ensure that pneumonia is not the cause for these symptoms. Blood in the sputum may also indicate other medical conditions and should be reported to your physician promptly.