What condition does a productive cough with increased sputum production indicate, aside from pneumonia?

A productive cough with increased sputum production is a primary characteristic of bronchitis. This condition occurs when the bronchial tubes become inflamed, often due to viral infections or prolonged exposure to irritants like smoking. The inflammation leads to an increase in mucus production, resulting in a cough that is often accompanied by significant sputum.

In bronchitis, the cough usually persists for an extended period, especially in chronic cases, and may be triggered or worsened by cold air, exercise, or tobacco smoke. The mucus produced can also become thick and discolored, which is not uncommon in cases of chronic bronchitis, a common component of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

While asthma may also cause coughing and mucus production, it is typically more associated with wheezing and bronchoconstriction, rather than a predominant productive cough. Emphysema primarily focuses on the destruction of alveoli and may lead to a cough, but it's not usually characterized by a significant increase in sputum production compared to bronchitis. COPD exacerbation can involve productive cough and increased sputum, but it is less specific than bronchitis, which directly correlates with the symptoms mentioned.