Can bronchitis and pneumonia occur simultaneously. How do symptoms of bronchitis differ from pneumonia. What are the risk factors for developing pneumonia from bronchitis. How are bronchitis and pneumonia diagnosed and treated.

Understanding Bronchitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Types

Bronchitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the bronchial tubes, which are responsible for carrying air to and from the lungs. It can be categorized into two main types: acute and chronic bronchitis.

Acute Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. It usually resolves within one to two weeks. The primary symptoms include:

• Persistent cough
• Production of mucus
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Wheezing

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition characterized by recurring cough and other persistent symptoms. Unlike acute bronchitis, it cannot be cured but can be managed with appropriate treatment.

Pneumonia: A Deeper Look into Lung Infection

Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both lungs, causing the air sacs (alveoli) to fill with fluid or pus. It can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Who is at higher risk of developing pneumonia? Certain groups are more susceptible:

• Children and the elderly
• People with asthma
• Individuals with chronic diseases
• Those with weakened immune systems

Pneumonia symptoms often include:

• Cough with mucus production
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Confusion (particularly in older adults)
• Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting

Comparing Bronchitis and Pneumonia: Similarities and Differences

While bronchitis and pneumonia share some common symptoms, they are distinct conditions affecting different parts of the respiratory system. Understanding these differences is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Symptoms

Both bronchitis and pneumonia can cause:

• Cough (often with mucus production)
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fever and chills

Key Differences

How do the symptoms of pneumonia differ from those of bronchitis? Pneumonia often presents with more severe symptoms, including:

• Higher fever
• More pronounced breathing difficulties
• Sharp chest pain
• Excessive sweating and clammy skin
• Confusion (especially in older adults)

Additionally, pneumonia can lead to a sudden worsening of symptoms after a cold or flu, which is not typically seen in bronchitis cases.

The Relationship Between Bronchitis and Pneumonia

A common misconception is that bronchitis frequently evolves into pneumonia. However, this is not usually the case. Dr. Ralph Gonzales, an internal medicine specialist, explains that what is initially diagnosed as bronchitis may sometimes have been pneumonia from the start.

Can bronchitis and pneumonia occur simultaneously? According to Dr. Fernando Holguin, a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, it is indeed possible to have both conditions concurrently. However, they are separate conditions that typically develop independently of each other.

When Bronchitis Leads to Pneumonia

In rare cases, bronchitis can progress to pneumonia. This occurs when:

1. The infection spreads from the bronchial tubes to the lungs
2. A secondary infection develops

These scenarios are more likely to occur in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.

Risk Factors for Bronchitis Progressing to Pneumonia

While the progression from bronchitis to pneumonia is uncommon, certain groups are at higher risk:

• People with weakened immune systems
• Smokers
• Individuals with chronic health conditions (heart, kidney, or liver disease)
• Those with underlying lung diseases
• Older adults
• Young children
• Pregnant women

Understanding these risk factors can help in early intervention and prevention of complications.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Bronchitis vs. Pneumonia

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of both bronchitis and pneumonia. Healthcare providers use various methods to differentiate between these conditions.

Diagnostic Methods

How are bronchitis and pneumonia diagnosed? Doctors typically employ the following techniques:

• Physical examination
• Chest X-rays
• Blood tests
• Sputum tests
• Pulse oximetry

In some cases, additional tests like CT scans or bronchoscopy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment strategies differ for bronchitis and pneumonia:

Bronchitis Treatment

• Rest and hydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Cough suppressants (if necessary)
• Humidifiers to ease breathing
• In some cases, bronchodilators or steroids

Pneumonia Treatment

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
• Antiviral medications for viral pneumonia
• Pain relievers and fever reducers
• Cough medicine
• Oxygen therapy in severe cases
• Hospitalization for severe cases or high-risk individuals

Prevention Strategies for Bronchitis and Pneumonia

While both bronchitis and pneumonia can be serious conditions, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing these respiratory illnesses.

General Prevention Tips

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine
• Get adequate sleep
• Manage stress effectively

Vaccinations

Vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing both bronchitis and pneumonia. What vaccines are recommended?

• Annual flu vaccine
• Pneumococcal vaccine (especially for high-risk groups)
• COVID-19 vaccine

Consult with your healthcare provider to determine which vaccines are appropriate for you based on your age, health status, and risk factors.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cases of bronchitis and mild pneumonia can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

When should you see a doctor for bronchitis or pneumonia? Seek medical care if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C) that persists or worsens
• Cough that lasts more than three weeks
• Coughing up blood
• Chest pain
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Confusion or changes in mental awareness (especially in older adults)

Early intervention can prevent complications and lead to faster recovery.

Long-Term Effects and Complications

While most cases of bronchitis and pneumonia resolve without long-term consequences, some individuals may experience lingering effects or complications.

Potential Complications of Bronchitis

• Chronic bronchitis (if acute bronchitis recurs frequently)
• Pneumonia (in rare cases)
• Exacerbation of existing respiratory conditions

Potential Complications of Pneumonia

• Bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream)
• Lung abscesses
• Pleural effusion (fluid accumulation around the lungs)
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Sepsis (in severe cases)

How can you minimize the risk of complications? Follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely, get plenty of rest, and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery progress.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Groups

Certain populations require special attention when it comes to bronchitis and pneumonia due to their increased risk of developing severe complications.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults are more susceptible to respiratory infections and may experience atypical symptoms. What should caregivers watch for in elderly patients?

• Confusion or changes in mental status
• Decreased appetite
• Unexplained falls
• Worsening of chronic conditions

Children

Children, especially those under five, may present with different symptoms compared to adults. Parents should be aware of:

• Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
• Bluish tint to skin, lips, or nail beds
• Inability to drink or eat
• Lethargy or decreased responsiveness

Individuals with Chronic Conditions

People with pre-existing health conditions such as COPD, diabetes, or heart disease should be particularly vigilant about respiratory symptoms and seek medical attention promptly if they develop signs of bronchitis or pneumonia.

The Role of Lifestyle in Respiratory Health

Maintaining good respiratory health goes beyond just preventing infections. Your lifestyle choices can significantly impact your lung function and overall respiratory well-being.

Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your respiratory health. How does smoking affect your lungs?

• Damages the cilia in your airways, reducing their ability to clear mucus and debris
• Increases inflammation in the lungs
• Raises the risk of chronic bronchitis and emphysema
• Makes you more susceptible to respiratory infections

If you’re a smoker, talk to your healthcare provider about smoking cessation programs and resources available to help you quit.

Air Quality

The air you breathe plays a crucial role in your respiratory health. What steps can you take to improve indoor air quality?

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
• Regularly clean and replace air conditioning filters
• Keep your home well-ventilated
• Avoid using strong chemicals or air fresheners
• Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas

Exercise and Lung Health

Regular physical activity can improve your lung function and overall respiratory health. How does exercise benefit your lungs?

• Increases lung capacity
• Improves the efficiency of oxygen uptake
• Strengthens respiratory muscles
• Enhances the body’s ability to clear mucus from the airways

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, as recommended by health authorities.

Emerging Research and Future Directions

The field of respiratory medicine is constantly evolving, with new research shedding light on better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia.

Advancements in Diagnostic Tools

Researchers are working on developing more accurate and rapid diagnostic tests for respiratory infections. What new technologies are on the horizon?

• Point-of-care testing for quick identification of pathogens
• Advanced imaging techniques for more precise visualization of lung abnormalities
• Artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis to improve accuracy and speed

Novel Treatment Approaches

Emerging treatments for bronchitis and pneumonia aim to provide more targeted and effective therapies. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Development of new antibiotics to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria
• Exploration of immunomodulatory therapies to enhance the body’s natural defenses
• Investigation of inhaled medications for more direct delivery to the lungs
• Research into the potential of stem cell therapies for lung repair and regeneration

The Role of the Microbiome

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the lung microbiome in respiratory health. How might this knowledge shape future treatments?

• Development of probiotic therapies to promote a healthy lung microbiome
• Targeted approaches to restore balance to the microbiome during and after infections
• Better understanding of how the microbiome influences susceptibility to respiratory infections

As research in these areas progresses, we can expect to see more personalized and effective approaches to managing bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory conditions.

Bronchitis vs. Pneumonia: What Are the Differences?

If you’ve experienced a lingering cough that seems to come from deep in your chest, you may have wondered: Could I have bronchitis or pneumonia?

Coughs are a common symptom of respiratory infections like a cold or the flu — your body’s way of naturally clearing irritants out of your air passages to help prevent infection. (1)

More on Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms That Mean You Have Bronchitis

But a cough that won’t go away even after your sore throat, fever, and other symptoms have gotten better, and that’s accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath, may indicate that you’re dealing with something more serious, like bronchitis or pneumonia. (1,2)

Given how many symptoms the two respiratory conditions share, it’s not surprising that bronchitis is often mistaken for pneumonia and vice versa. Bronchitis that’s thought to have turned into pneumonia may actually have been pneumonia all along. It’s also common for people to think that bronchitis can often turn into pneumonia, but in reality, this is not the case for most people, explains Ralph Gonzales, MD, the associate dean for clinical innovation and chief innovation officer for the University of San Francisco Health and an internal medicine specialist. “What we call bronchitis may sometimes be pneumonia,” he says.

Bronchitis vs. Pneumonia: What Are the Differences and Similarities?

Acute bronchitis is a condition in which the lining of your bronchial tubes (the passages that carry air to and from your lungs) becomes inflamed. This condition usually develops as a result of a viral infection like a cold or the flu, and it typically gets better in about one to two weeks. (This is different from chronic bronchitis, which is a condition that does not go away and is marked by a recurring cough and other symptoms that can be managed but not cured.) (3,4)

Pneumonia is an infection in one or both of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. When you have pneumonia, the air sacs of the lungs (alveoli) fill up with fluid or pus. While anyone can get pneumonia, some people — such as children, the elderly, people with asthma, and individuals with chronic disease — are at an increased risk of developing this lung condition. (1,5,6)

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Pneumonia in Kids

Both bronchitis and pneumonia involve inflammation in the chest (though that inflammation occurs in different parts of the chest for each one). And both conditions share some common symptoms: (1,2,5,7,8)

• Cough (often accompanied by the production of mucus)
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath that can get worse when you’re active
• Fever and chills

Bronchitis can also, however, bring on chest discomfort and wheezing.

And pneumonia can bring on these symptoms not usually linked to bronchitis: (7,8,9)

• Excessive sweating and clammy skin
• Suddenly feeling worse after cold or flu symptoms go away
• Sharp pain in the chest, especially when breathing deeply or coughing
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Lack of energy
• Confusion
• Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting

While symptoms for either bronchitis or pneumonia can range from mild to serious enough to require hospitalization, symptoms such as fever, breathing problems, and chest pain tend to be more severe with pneumonia.

In people with pneumonia, the alveoli fill with pus and other fluids and prevent oxygen from reaching the bloodstream; when there’s too little oxygen in the blood, the body cannot function properly, increasing the risk of death. (1,10)

Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?

While bronchitis and pneumonia both have to do with chest inflammation, they are separate and different conditions that happen independent of each other — meaning one doesn’t necessarily cause the other, explains Fernando Holguin, MD, a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and the director of the asthma clinical research program at the Center for Lungs and Breathing at the University of Colorado Hospital, both in Aurora. “And you can have both bronchitis and pneumonia at the same time,” Dr. Holguin says.

That said, in some cases bronchitis does turn into (thereby causing) pneumonia. This occurs when either the infection spreads from the bronchial tubes to the lungs or a secondary infection occurs. While either scenario is rare, it tends to happen more often in people who have a weakened immune system or another condition that makes them more susceptible to infection.

Some people are at risk of bronchitis turning into pneumonia: (11,12)

• Those with a weakened immune system
• Smokers
• Individuals who have a chronic health condition, such as heart, kidney, or liver disease
• People with an underlying lung disease
• Older adults
• Young children
• Pregnant women

While doctors aren’t sure exactly how having a viral infection may make someone more prone to developing pneumonia or another secondary infection, studies have pointed to some theories.

“Animal models have shown that when you have an infection, it weakens your body’s ability to protect against bacterial infection,” Dr. Gonzales explains. (13) Doctors also think that the epithelial tissue of the airway, which serves as a barrier against viruses and bacteria, can become compromised following a viral infection, making it easier for bacteria to invade, Gonzales adds. (14)

What Can I Do to Stop Bronchitis From Turning Into Pneumonia?

Most cases of respiratory infections like a cold or the flu, and related bronchitis, do not lead to pneumonia. And in healthy people, pneumonia can usually be treated effectively. But for those who are at an increased risk for developing pneumonia after bronchitis (such as the elderly, people with chronic health conditions, and pregnant women), pneumonia can be very dangerous, even deadly. (10)

The best way to prevent a secondary infection is to reduce your risk of getting a viral or bacterial infection in the first place. Wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face, and if a family member is sick, don’t share utensils and clean common areas regularly (the flu virus can live on a surface for up to 48 hours, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). (14,15)

Doctors also stress the importance of getting a flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine to prevent a viral infection that can lead to pneumonia. (10)

You can also try to prevent getting a secondary infection by taking care of yourself and treating your bronchitis symptoms, which includes these actions: (2,16)

• Getting sleep and staying rested
• Not smoking and minimizing your exposure to secondhand smoke
• Avoiding using housecleaning products until you recover
• Avoiding strenuous exercise for a few days
• Avoiding cold air, which, like certain chemicals, can be irritating to your airway passages
• Using a humidifier

How Doctors May Treat Bronchitis That Turns Into Pneumonia

Treatment of pneumonia that has developed after bronchitis can vary depending on factors like age, severity of symptoms, and medical history. “If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend hospitalization,” says Holguin.

If you’re not experiencing breathing difficulties or other serious symptoms and your pneumonia is determined to be bacterial, you may be prescribed an oral antibiotic. (17)

Your doctor may also test you for other infections, such as the flu, and depending on your symptoms and test results, recommend an antiviral medication, says Holguin. (17,18,19)

If your doctor determines that your pneumonia can be treated at home, they may suggest the following: (17)

• Drinking plenty of fluids, which can help loosen phlegm and clear it out of your body
• Getting lots of rest (not going to work and enlisting someone to help with household chores)
• Taking ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever or chest pain

If hospitalized for pneumonia, you may be given these treatments: (17,18,19)

• Oxygen therapy and other breathing treatments
• Fluids (possibly intravenously as well as by mouth)
• Antimicrobial agents (either antibiotics or antiviral medications)

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

1. Cough Culprits. NIH News in Health. May 2017.
2. Acute Bronchitis. MedlinePlus. January 17, 2022.
3. Chronic Bronchitis. American Lung Association.
4. Bronchitis. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. March 24, 2022.
5. What Is Pneumonia? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. March 24, 2022.
6. Pneumonia Symptoms and Diagnosis. American Lung Association. October 5, 2022.
7. Bronchitis: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. April 11, 2017.
8. Bronchitis Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment. American Lung Association. March 12, 2020.
9. Pneumonia: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. June 13, 2020.
10. What Is the Connection Between Influenza and Pneumonia? American Lung Association. October 5, 2022.
11. Bronchitis. NHS. August 7, 2019.
12. Acute Bronchitis: Overview. InformedHealth.org. December 2, 2020.
13. Metzger D, Sun K. Immune Dysfunction and Bacterial Coinfections Following Influenza. The Journal of Immunology. September 1, 2013.
14. Hendaus MA, Jomha FA, Alhammadi AH. Virus-Induced Secondary Bacterial Infection: A Concise Review. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management. August 24, 2015.
15. Nonpharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 27, 2020.
16. Bronchitis: Diagnosis and Treatment. Mayo Clinic. April 11, 2017.
17. Pneumonia Treatment and Recovery. American Lung Association. October 5, 2022.
18. Freeman A, Leigh TR Jr. Viral Pneumonia. StatPearls. July 4, 2022.
19. Sattar SBA, Sharma S. Bacterial Pneumonia. StatPearls. December 28, 2021.

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Compare causes, symptoms, & treatments

Bronchitis vs. pneumonia causes | Prevalence | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatments | Risk factors | Prevention | When to see a doctor | FAQs | Resources

It can be challenging to know the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia because they both cause similar symptoms, but understanding how these respiratory infections are different is key to getting proper treatment. Bronchitis is a condition where the airways in the lungs (bronchial tubes) become inflamed and produce mucus. Pneumonia is an infection of the air sacs in one or both of the lungs. Let’s take a more in-depth look at bronchitis and pneumonia to better understand their differences.

Causes

Bronchitis

Bronchitis has two different forms: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. A viral infection like the common cold or flu usually causes acute bronchitis, but bacteria can also be a culprit. Smoking tobacco, exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, dust, or toxic gases typically causes chronic bronchitis.

Pneumonia

Bacterial infections most commonly cause pneumonia, but it’s also possible to get pneumonia from a virus or fungus.

Prevalence

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a fairly common condition. About 5% of adults will self-report an episode of acute bronchitis over the course of a year, and acute bronchitis is the fifth most common reason that adults go to see a primary care physician. Researchers estimate that viruses cause between 85% to 95% of acute bronchitis cases every year. Ninety percent of adults who contract acute bronchitis will seek medical help.

Chronic bronchitis is more serious than acute bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema, a condition in which the air sacs become damaged, are together referred to as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). More than 16.4 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, but there are likely many more people who don’t know they have it, according to the American Lung Association.

Pneumonia

About 1 million adults in the U.S. seek hospital care for pneumonia every year, and pneumonia is the world’s leading cause of death for children younger than 5 years of age. Pneumonia is also the number one reason for children in the U.S. to be hospitalized, and viral pneumonia is the leading cause of infant hospitalizations. The good news is that successful pneumonia treatment often leads to full recovery.

Symptoms

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is mainly characterized by coughing with or without mucus production, wheezing, shortness of breath, low fever, chest tightness, and mild fatigue. The symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis are essentially the same, but chronic bronchitis lasts much longer than acute bronchitis.

Pneumonia

Symptoms of pneumonia typically include a cough with or without phlegm production, high fevers, chills, severe fatigue, trouble breathing, and overall weakness. Some people may develop other flu-like symptoms when they have pneumonia, like a runny nose, stuffy nose, or body aches.

Diagnosis

Bronchitis

To diagnose bronchitis, a healthcare provider will need to do a physical exam, ask the patient about their medical history, and look for common symptoms of bronchitis. During the physical exam, the provider will listen to the lungs with a stethoscope to check for any abnormal sounds that may indicate clogged airways. Sometimes doctors will order chest X-rays and blood or sputum tests to determine the severity of bronchitis and what’s causing it.

Pneumonia

To diagnose pneumonia, healthcare providers will look for telltale symptoms of pneumonia, ask about the patient’s medical history, and do a physical exam. They’ll listen to the patient’s lungs with a stethoscope to check for abnormal sounds, and they may order a chest X-ray to look for signs of pneumonia. Sometimes physicians will order blood tests to determine if bacteria, a virus, or fungus is the cause of pneumonia. They may also request a sample of the patient’s sputum to be sent for culture if a bacterial cause is thought to be a possible cause.

Treatments

Bronchitis

There are several treatment options for bronchitis, but it’s important to remember that what works for one person might not work for another. Treatment is also dependent upon a diagnosis of acute versus chronic bronchitis. The best way to make sure you’re getting the right treatment for bronchitis is to talk with your doctor. Here are some of the most common bronchitis treatments:

Medications

• Over-the-counter medications, including cough suppressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and bronchodilators (inhalers)
• Corticosteroids
• Antibiotics

Lifestyle changes

• Staying hydrated
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding secondhand smoke

Therapies

• Oxygen therapy (chronic bronchitis)
• Pulmonary rehabilitation (chronic bronchitis)

Surgery

• In rare cases, some people with chronic bronchitis may need lung volume reduction surgery to remove damaged lung tissue.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is most commonly treated with medications, though the type of medication will vary based on the underlying cause. As always, it’s best to talk with your healthcare provider before stopping or starting any new medication. Here are some of the most common pneumonia treatments you could speak with your doctor about:

Medications

• Over-the-counter medications, including fever reducers and pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen as well as cough suppressants
• Antibiotics
• Antivirals
• Antifungals

Lifestyle changes

• Getting adequate rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids

Therapies

• Supplemental oxygen

Hospitalization

• People with more severe cases of pneumonia may require hospitalized care where they can receive intravenous fluids and antibiotics.

Surgery

• In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected or damaged parts of the lungs.

RELATED: The best cough medicine

Risk factors

Bronchitis

Some people have a higher risk of getting bronchitis than others. Risk factors for bronchitis include:

• Smoking
• Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke
• Exposure to lung irritants like gases or chemicals
• People older than 65 years of age
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Family history of lung disease or respiratory disease
• Having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Having an alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Pneumonia

Here are the top risk factors for pneumonia:

• Having a health condition that affects the lungs or heart
• Smoking
• Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, toxic gases, or chemicals
• Being pregnant
• People with compromised immune systems
• People older than 65 years of age
• Infants younger than 2 years old
• Premature babies

Prevention

Bronchitis

Doctors and researchers have come up with proven ways to prevent and lessen the spread of bronchitis. These include washing hands frequently with soap and water, not smoking, avoiding irritants like secondhand smoke whenever possible, and staying up to date with vaccinations.

Pneumonia

The same precautions that prevent bronchitis can help prevent pneumonia too. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water, not smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke and other irritants, and staying up to date on vaccinations are all very important. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines and several other vaccines that can prevent bacterial and viral infections that might lead to pneumonia.

When to see a doctor

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends seeing a doctor for bronchitis if:

• You have a fever that’s higher than 100.4 F
• You’re coughing up bloody mucus
• Breathing becomes difficult or painful
• You have sharp chest pain
• Your symptoms last longer than three weeks

If you have pneumonia and start to have trouble breathing, chest pain, bluish fingers or lips, or a high fever that won’t go away, it’s best to see a doctor or visit an urgent care center as soon as possible. People with weakened immune systems, underlying health conditions, older adults, and young children should see a doctor if they have pneumonia because pneumonia can quickly become a life-threatening condition.

Frequently asked questions about bronchitis and pneumonia

Is bronchitis contagious?

Bronchitis itself isn’t contagious, but if it’s caused by a cold or flu virus, then it’s possible to catch the virus and come down with bronchitis because of the virus.

Is pneumonia contagious?

Some bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia, like the cold and flu viruses, can be contagious. If caught, they could potentially lead to pneumonia.

RELATED: Is pneumonia contagious?

How long does bronchitis last?

Symptoms of acute bronchitis can last anywhere from one to two weeks, though some people may still have symptoms for up to three weeks. Chronic bronchitis lasts for at least three months and can persist for several years on and off. For some people, chronic bronchitis will never completely go away.

How long does pneumonia last?

Mild cases of pneumonia typically last a week or two, but more severe cases can result in symptoms that last six weeks or more.

How do you know if you have bronchitis or pneumonia?

Pneumonia symptoms are usually more severe than bronchitis symptoms. If you have a cough that’s accompanied by a high fever, sharp chest pain, and chills, it’s more likely that you have pneumonia vs. bronchitis.

How does bronchitis turn into pneumonia?

Bronchitis can turn into pneumonia if it’s left untreated. Because bronchitis is an infection of the airways that lead to the lungs, if someone’s sick with bronchitis due to a bacteria or virus and doesn’t seek treatment, the infection can reach the lungs and cause pneumonia.

Can you have bronchitis

with pneumonia?

Although it’s rare, it’s possible to have bronchitis and pneumonia at the same time. More often than not, this happens when an infectious cause for bronchitis turns into pneumonia, but that’s not always the case.

Is treatment for bronchitis and pneumonia the same?

Treatment for bronchitis and pneumonia is not the same, though they can be similar depending on the type of bronchitis or pneumonia someone has. Acute bronchitis and bacterial pneumonia, for example, will be treated with antibiotics. A doctor will prescribe a unique treatment plan for every individual based on their symptoms and medical history.

Resources

• Pneumonia symptoms and diagnosis
• Preventing and treating bronchitis
• Chronic bronchitis treatments
• Top 20 pneumonia facts—2019
• Acute bronchitis

Not so terrible bronchitis? – Euromed clinic

The diagnosis of Bronchitis usually scares parents. Many myths and fears are associated with this disease: that bronchitis must be treated with antibiotics, that hospitalization is necessary, that the disease can give very serious complications … Together with the pediatrician of the Euromed clinic, we understand what is true in the information about bronchitis.

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa (bronchial tree). Also, in children of the first year of life, as an independent disease, bronchiolitis occurs – inflammation of the walls of the bronchioles – the most distant and small bronchi.

According to the form of the course, bronchitis is divided into acute and chronic.

Chronic bronchitis is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial tissue. Chronic bronchitis is considered if the cough lasts at least three months a year for two consecutive years.

According to etiology (causes of occurrence), viral, bacterial and allergic bronchitis are distinguished .

More than 80% of bronchitis is viral, infection occurs by airborne droplets, and proceeds like a normal ARVI, with the difference that the viruses that cause bronchitis prefer to “settle” in the tissues of the bronchi.

Symptoms of bronchitis

• Bronchitis has classic symptoms for any SARS:

• Increase in body temperature

• A sore throat

• Runny nose

• Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, noisy breathing (not always)

• Crepitating (crackling) and quiet wheezing

• Cough

The main and main symptom of bronchitis is cough. It can be dry or wet – depending on the form of the disease and the stage of its course.

One of the options for the course of bronchitis in children is obstructive bronchitis – this is a condition in which bronchial spasm occurs, the mucous membrane swells, sputum discharge is difficult – it accumulates in the bronchi, causing difficulty breathing. Bronchial spasm also contributes to difficulty breathing – this is the main danger of obstructive bronchitis – the baby begins to choke. Obstructive bronchitis is characterized by a noisy exhalation with a whistle.

Diagnosis of bronchitis

No x-ray examination or additional tests are needed to diagnose bronchitis. To make a diagnosis, it is enough for a doctor to simply auscultate – listen to the lungs with a phonendoscope – an experienced pediatrician will immediately “hear bronchitis”.

Additional examinations are prescribed in order to determine the type of bronchitis – viral or bacterial – the appointment of therapy depends on this. As you know, antibiotics do not act on viruses, so they are prescribed only if the doctor believes that bronchitis is bacterial in nature. This can be reported by a blood test. Also, the pediatrician determines the type of bronchitis by collecting an anamnesis (medical history): how long the child has been sick, how the disease proceeds, how long ago the child was sick last time, what was the treatment, etc.

X-ray with bronchitis may be prescribed in order to exclude pneumonia – a possible complication in this disease. Unfortunately, it is difficult to diagnose pneumonia in young children without x-rays – local changes in some segments of the lungs cannot always be heard.

How to treat bronchitis

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for bronchitis.

The choice of therapy depends on many factors: the type of bronchitis (viral or bacterial), duration, characteristics of the course of the disease, cough (it can be dry, wet, only in sleep or after sleep, etc. ), the condition of the child.

In the treatment of bronchitis, it is very important, , that normal air humidity (40-60%) be maintained in the room where the child is located. It is necessary to protect the patient from tobacco smoke (passive smoking with bronchitis is very dangerous).

Do I need antibiotics for bronchitis?

Most cases of bronchitis have a viral etiology. Antibiotics are not required in this case. Antibacterial therapy is prescribed by a doctor when he has established that bronchitis is of a bacterial nature – according to the results of a blood test or clinical data.

Can antitussives be used?

A severe cough exhausts both the baby and family members. Of course, I want to alleviate the condition of the child by giving him a drug that relieves cough. But without a doctor’s recommendation, it is absolutely not worth doing this! Why?

Firstly, there are a great variety of antitussive drugs , and it is difficult to choose the right one on your own. There is no drug that can be used from the beginning to the end of the disease – depending on the stage, the active substance is selected.

Secondly, unreasonable selection of an antitussive drug can provoke complications, for example: you give a child a cough suppressant medicine at a time when sputum begins to separate, because of this, he cannot get rid of sputum, it stagnates and leads to pneumonia.

Thirdly, children’s preparations are produced mainly in the form of syrups containing fragrances, flavors, preservatives, stabilizers, etc. – these components often cause allergies.

Special attention

If the child’s condition worsens or new symptoms appear

In these cases, be sure to show the child to the pediatrician!

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symptoms of pneumonia and bronchitis

Bronchitis and pneumonia have similar features, so many people confuse them (and in vain!). We will tell you what symptoms should alert you.

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What do these symptoms mean?

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Pneumonia is fairly easy to confuse with acute bronchitis due to similar symptoms. One of them is a lingering cough that torments a person for weeks. However, there are key differences between these diseases that we need to be aware of. Understanding what is happening with our body will allow us to consult a doctor in time if the condition begins to worsen.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

What is bronchitis?

Acute bronchitis is inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs. It can develop as a complication of a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu.

Sometimes bronchitis occurs on its own, for non-pathogenic causes. The body often reacts to stimuli in this way, but, of course, a viral infection remains the main cause. This, by the way, means the almost complete uselessness of antibiotics for the treatment of bronchitis.

Symptoms of bronchitis:

• Persistent cough (with or without phlegm).
• Sore throat.
• Chest pain (aggravated by coughing).
• Shortness of breath.
• Short, uneven breathing.
• Chill.
• Body aches.

Acute bronchitis may resolve on its own within a week. But cough, as a residual phenomenon, sometimes drags on for weeks or even months.

If you are diagnosed with bronchitis and your symptoms worsen, stay the same, or change significantly without improvement, you may have developed another infection. They are usually called secondary.

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In this case, it is dangerous to self-medicate, you should definitely consult a doctor (especially if you have not done this before).

How is bronchitis treated?

Acute bronchitis is most often caused by a virus, so antibiotics are rarely prescribed. They are completely ineffective against viruses, and thoughtless use of them only contributes to the cultivation of drug-resistant bacterial cultures.

Sometimes – quite rarely – bronchitis is caused by bacteria, in which case doctors may prescribe antibiotics.

This recommendation is usually made after receiving the results of tests in which the throat swab is sent for bacterial culture. The scheme may seem complicated, but antibiotics without indications are a very bad idea, leading to superbugs.

More often than not, the treatment of acute bronchitis is to relieve the symptoms until the body manages itself.

Have you ever had bronchitis?

What is pneumonia?

For those of us who are older, pneumonia is better known as pneumonia. This condition is much more difficult than bronchitis, and when we get sick, we feel much worse.

Both bronchitis and pneumonia cause a painful cough, but the inflammation is characterized by other important symptoms not characteristic of bronchitis.

Symptoms of pneumonia:

• Fever.
• Chest pain.
• Cough with phlegm and mucus.
• Painful and frequent cough.
• Shortness of breath.
• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Chill.

There are many types of pneumonia, some of which are very serious. In adults, bacterial pneumonia is most common. Among respiratory diseases, it is the most severe, and in the most extreme cases can lead to a poor outcome.

Do not confuse bacterial pneumonia with complications of a coronavirus infection! They develop and proceed in different ways, and the methods of treatment are also different.

How is pneumonia treated?

If it is not COVID-19, the treatment for pneumonia will depend on its cause. Bacterial inflammation almost always needs antibiotic therapy. Other medications, most often over-the-counter medications, help with symptoms, but their use also requires a doctor’s recommendation.

Under no circumstances should you try to carry pneumonia on your feet!

This is a serious condition that takes time to heal. It is the inability to lie down (and, of course, the lack of adequate medical care for any reason) that makes pneumonia deadly.

Facts about pneumonia

Thousands of adults are hospitalized every year with pneumococcal pneumonia , the most common type of pneumonia that slowly resolves and torments the sick person for a long time.

There are also less severe forms of pneumonia, among them the so-called “walking” or latent.

It presents with milder symptoms and does not always require antibiotic treatment. A general practitioner – who is a must-see if you suspect pneumonia – will determine the type of pneumonia you have based on your symptoms, physical examination, and tests.

In any case, a patient with pneumonia is supposed to rest, bed rest, drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food. For bronchitis, the recommendations are similar. Acute bronchitis is annoying, but not as severe as pneumonia.

The main thing is not to start the disease, whatever it may be. You should not carry on your feet what needs to be treated at home.

What is chronic bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is another problem many of us face. In general, an exacerbation of chronic bronchitis is simply an acute worsening of all its symptoms.

These are usually wheezing, shortness of breath, sputum production or coughing – nothing particularly critical, but the quality of life certainly suffers.

This condition is usually divided into two directions with similar symptoms:

1. Common chronic bronchitis. It is characterized by a more frequent cough with increased sputum production.
2. Emphysema. With it, shortness of breath occurs more often.