What type of cough is typically associated with chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a productive cough, which is central to its definition. In chronic bronchitis, the excessive production of mucus due to inflammation of the bronchial tubes leads to a significant increase in mucus secretions. This accumulation necessitates frequent coughing to help expel the mucus from the airways, making the cough productive. The distinguishing feature of a productive cough is the presence of sputum, which can be clear, white, yellow, or green, depending on the severity and duration of the disease.

While a dry cough occurs in conditions where there is little to no mucus production, a spasmodic cough is often associated with conditions like asthma or pertussis. A hacking cough typically describes a dry, persistent cough that does not produce sputum and is generally more associated with viral infections or irritations rather than chronic bronchitis. Thus, the productive cough is a hallmark of chronic bronchitis, reflecting the underlying pathology and the need to clear airway secretions.