Bacterial bronchitis is a form of bronchitis that occurs in conjunction with viral bronchitis, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. It is caused by a bacterial infection in the airways that occurs following a viral respiratory infection. There are two classifications for bronchitis: acute and chronic, which are classified according to the duration and frequency of the bronchitis bouts. While most of the symptoms of bronchitis are universal, there are some symptoms that signal chronic bronchitis, or long-term and recurring, as opposed to acute bronchitis, i.e. a severe onset of illness. These symptoms are usually the same for viral bronchitis and bacterial bronchitis.
Step 1
Notice the color of the mucus you cough up. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, coughing up yellow-green mucus is a sign of bacterial bronchitis. However, the Mayo Clinic states that mucus isn't always coughed up during a bout of bronchitis. It further states that a child with bronchitis may swallow the mucus coughed up so it may not be noticed.
Step 2
Pay attention to fatigue level. You may feel more tired than normal when you have bronchitis. Also, you may experience shortness of breath, even while you are doing mild activities.
Step 3
Focus on your chest. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that wheezing and a burning sensation in the chest are signs of bronchitis.
Step 4
Take your temperature. According to the Mayo Clinic, you may have a low-grade fever and chills when you have bronchitis.
Step 5
Keep an eye on the symptoms that differentiate acute, or short term, bronchitis from chronic, or recurring, bronchitis. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says chronic sufferers can experience bluish-colored lips caused by decreased oxygen levels; swelling of the ankles, feet and legs; and frequent respiratory infections in the form of colds or flu.
