Asthmatic Bronchitis: Asthmatic bronchitis is a hybrid condition combining two common conditions: asthma and bronchitis (chronic). The common symptoms may or may not include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fever, fatigue, wheezing, weakness, etc. Other symptoms that are fairly common include: blue colored lips, swelling in the ankles, legs and feet and frequent respiratory problems.

An asthmatic problem typically underlies the presenting symptoms when an asthmatic bronchitis diagnosis is applied. The asthma in asthmatic bronchitis patients  has escalated to such a persistent level that is has resulted in clinically substantial and chronic air flow blockage/obstruction. Anti-asthmatic therapy no longer relieves the obstruction of air flow and chronic bronchitis symptoms are usually present as well.

Three conditions that are often misdiagnosed because they appear similar are: emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. All three conditions negatively affect the bronchial tree resulting in respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Some asthma conditions can escalate and develop into asthmatic bronchitis. The reason behind the escalation is unknown.

Treatment: To appropriately treat asthmatic bronchitis an individual must stop smoking, drink plenty of fluids, rest and take aspirin (not child appropriate treatment) and steam treatment. An inhaler can be an effective additional treatment. It can open the airways and reduce wheezing. Antibiotics can be used to alleviate secondary infections.

Several common complications of asthmatic bronchitis can require hospitalization.

Summary: Within 7 to 10 days most cases of asthmatic bronchitis should clear up. If they do not there could be an underlying lung disorder. One lingering symptom that is normal is a dry, hacking cough. This can last for months after general improvement. Sinusitis, pneumonia or acute bronchitis are all common complications that can occur. Consulting an allergist will allow patients to get detailed explanations regarding the cause of their airway obstruction as well as the connection between the bronchitis and the asthma.

Consulting a medical professional such as an allergist will allow patients to get a proper diagnosis; for instance determining if emphysema is present. Triggers need to be identified. Further testing may be required.

Patients can feel comfortable requesting extra information from their allergists regarding prescriptions and common complications associated with the disorder. Experienced allergists are well versed in the condition and the ramifications of both treatment and non-treatment.