A 40-year-old woman presents with worsening cough and wheezing over the past three weeks. She reports experiencing an episode of acute bronchitis two months ago. Her symptoms resolved after treatment but returned three weeks ago. What should be the management strategy?
Given the persistence and recurrence of her symptoms, this patient may have progressed from acute bronchitis to a more chronic form of bronchitis. Management would initially involve bronchodilators to reduce the wheezing and ease her breathing. If her symptoms persist, a course of corticosteroids may be considered. If symptoms still persist, a further workup, including chest X-ray and possibly a referral to a pulmonologist, may be warranted.