Asthma is prone to produce bronchial passage inflammation in that the bronchial airways become inflamed and swell. As a result, the airway is narrowed. The lining of the bronchial tubes produces mucus as a protective coating, and when confronted with irritants (chemicals, dust, pollen), excessive amounts of mucus are secreted. These external substances (irritants) in the environment are the primary triggers of asthmatic bronchitis. Therefore, people with ongoing asthma can develop a dual condition in which inflamed and narrowed bronchi with excessive mucus block the flow of air. Moreover, the similar symptoms of bronchitis are present.
Wheezing and Breathlessness
Wheezing--a whistling and cracking sound made during respiration--is a primary sign, along with a worrisome sensation of shortness of breath or a persistent feeling of breathlessness. A vicious cycle develops in that when one experiences shortness of breath, the tendency is to take shallow, quick breaths. This furthers the sensation of not getting enough air into the lungs.
Cough
The body's effort to restore rich airway flow and normal breathing involves attempting to remove the source of respiratory obstruction--done by coughing. The symptom of coughing can be so frequent that one's chest and ribs may become sore from the exertion. Also, a description of experiencing a "tightness" of the chest is common. If a productive cough is present, it may range from clear or white phlegm to green or yellow in color, and excessive coughing at night (nocturnal cough) may occur. The labor of relentless coughing can add to the additional symptom of fatigue.
Other Symptoms
An additional sign that may be observed in a person is a low-grade temperature, possibly accompanied by chills. People with asthmatic bronchitis also may have a medical history of recurring chest or respiratory infections, resulting from the chronic vulnerability of the bronchial system due to asthma.
