A patient presents with chronic cough and sputum production; what condition should be suspected?

Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough that produces sputum for at least three months in two consecutive years. This condition results from long-term irritation of the airways, often due to smoking or exposure to air pollutants. The presence of chronic cough and sputum production in the patient strongly suggests this diagnosis.

Asthma, while it can cause coughing and sputum production, is typically associated with wheezing, shortness of breath, and symptoms that vary over time and with exposure to triggers. If the cough and sputum production are ongoing and consistent, chronic bronchitis is a more fitting diagnosis.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema as subtypes. While COPD may also be considered due to the overlap in symptoms, chronic bronchitis is a specific presentation that directly matches the symptom pattern described.

Pneumonia usually presents with acute symptoms, including fever, chills, and often a productive cough, but it is usually of a more sudden onset rather than chronic. Thus, in the context of a chronic cough and sputum production, chronic bronchitis is the most appropriate condition to suspect.