Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
(AECB)
In this condition factsheet:
The Facts on Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are together called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. This is a chronic condition, usually attributed to tobacco smoking, causing shortness of breath and cough, leading to limitation of everyday activities like walking.
When breathing becomes more difficult for a person with COPD, they may be experiencing an acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD). During an acute exacerbation, breathing becomes more difficult because of further narrowing of the airways and secretion of large amounts of mucus that is often thicker than usual.
Causes of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
Acute exacerbations of COPD occur more frequently as a person's COPD worsens. The further narrowing of airways in people with COPD that results in a flare-up or acute exacerbation can be caused by allergens (e.g., pollens, wood or cigarette smoke, pollution), toxins (a variety of different chemicals), or acute viral or bacterial infections.
Bacterial infections are usually associated with mucus that turns a yellow or greenish colour and is typically much thicker than usual. Coloured mucus does not necessarily mean the person has a bacterial infection, however.
When a person has severe chronic lung disease from smoking, it may take something as minor as a chest cold to make their breathing so severe that they must be hospitalized.
Symptoms and Complications of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Bronchitis
AECOPD is associated with increased frequency and severity of coughing, accompanied by worsened chest congestion and discomfort. Increasing shortness of breath is also typical, and wheezing may be present as well.
People suffering from an acute exacerbation caused by infection may feel weak and have fever and chills. Doctors may recommend a chest X-ray to ensure that pneumonia is not the cause for these symptoms. Blood in the sputum may also indicate other medical conditions and should be reported to your physician promptly.
