If you have bronchitis, you may not need to see your GP unless your symptoms are severe or persistent (read more about when to see your GP).
If you do see your GP, they will usually be able to make a diagnosis by asking about your symptoms and listening to your chest using a stethoscope.
Ruling out other conditions
Your GP may need to rule out other lung infections, such as pneumonia, which has symptoms similar to those of bronchitis. If your GP thinks you may have pneumonia, you will probably need a chest X-ray. Your GP may also take a sample of mucus for testing.
If your GP thinks that you may have an undiagnosed underlying condition, such as asthma or emphysema (damage to the small airways in your lungs), they may also suggest a pulmonary function test. You will be asked to take a deep breath and blow into a device called a spirometer, which measures the volume of air in your lungs. A decreased lung capacity can indicate an underlying health problem.
