The diagnostics of chronic bronchitis can prove to be excessively difficult, because this condition has symptoms similar to different diseases including pneumonia and emphysema. At some stage in the preliminary exam the physician may inquire about your full medical history, plus run a full physical exam. Your attending doctor will ask you about each of the symptoms that are affecting you, and potentially ask if you smoke, because addictive smoking is the foremost contributing factor of this condition. If the results of the examination are deemed insubstantial, there are several various tests that can be performed to see if a person is suffering from this disease:



Pulmonary Function Testing a.k.a. PFT - This test requires a series of respiratory exercises with the help of a machine. The machine used in PFT serves to measure the patient's airflow, in addition to the quantity of oxygen that flows freely into your lungs. This step is distinctly important in testing for chronic bronchitis since most people who suffer from chronic bronchitis experience a shortness of air, in addition to labored breathing. This diagnostic method enables the attending specialist to evaluate how well your lungs are functioning.

High Resolution Computer Tomography a.k.a. HRCT is a form of Computed Tomography scan that effectively provides the physician with a clear image of the patient's lungs. A High Resolution Computer Tomography is done exactly like a CT scan, and ideally takes only a short number of minutes. These are most likely done on an open air, flat table.

X-Ray - Chest X-Rays provides the doctor with a clear chronic bronchitis diagnosis, and enables the doctor to exclude several other related possibilities.

In general, diagnosing chronic bronchitis is easy and painless. If you suspect that you have developed chronic bronchitis it is a good move to seek an appointment with your physician and get diagnosed. Avoid cigarette smoking and inhaling irritants either in your workplace or at home. If have been diagnosed with chronic bronchitis it is always a good idea to watch your diet, and start to exercise daily to ward off the symptoms of of chronic bronchitis.