Asthmatic Bronchitis: The combination of both asthma and bronchitis into one condition is referred to as asthmatic bronchitis. Asthmatic bronchitis leaves patients suffering from shortness of breath, fever, fatigue, chest pain, swelling in the legs, feet and ankles, blue colored lips, etc.

This condition typically has an underlying asthmatic problem. The asthmatic bronchitis diagnosis is given when asthma has escalated to a point of chronic breathing difficulty. The air flow is blocked substantially and anti-asthmatic therapy is no longer effective in reducing breathing difficulty.

Chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma have similar symptoms. This makes them easily confused during the diagnosis process. All three have a negative effect on the bronchial tree with frequent respiratory issues. All three leave individuals coughing and wheezing and feeling short of breath. Asthma conditions can escalate into asthmatic bronchitis but no one has been able to identify exactly why this sometimes occurs.

Treatment: Appropriate asthmatic bronchitis requires no smoking, intake plenty of fluids, plenty of rest, aspirin (not appropriate treatment for children), and steam (accessible through a variety of humidifiers). For further improvement an inhaler can be prescribed to open the airways/reduce wheezing. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed to alleviate any secondary bacterial infections.

Several common complications of asthmatic bronchitis can require hospitalization.

Summary: Symptoms should go away in many cases within 7 to 10 days unless there is an underlying lung disorder. A dry, hacking cough can linger after general improvement for months. Common complications include: sinusitis, pneumonia or acute bronchitis. Consulting a medical professional regarding your condition will allow an individual to get specific information regarding the nature or primary cause of the airway obstruction and the relationship between the asthma and bronchitis.

A medical professional will also determine whether or not emphysema is present. Further testing may be required and triggers will need to be identified. Consulting an experienced allergist an individual will be able to obtain information on minimizing their susceptibility.

Individuals should feel comfortable asking for details regarding their medications as well as possible complications. An experienced professional can advise patients regarding how to avoid or minimize the chance of complications related to asthmatic bronchitis or asthmatic bronchitis treatment.

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