How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
Your doctor usually will diagnose bronchitis based on your signs and symptoms. He or she may ask questions about your cough, such as how long you ve had it, what you re coughing up, and how much you cough. Your doctor also will likely ask: • About your medical history • Whether you ve recently had a cold or the flu • Whether you smoke or spend time around others who smoke • Whether you ve been exposed to air pollution, dust, or fumes Your doctor will use a stethoscope to listen for wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe) or other abnormal sounds in your lungs.
