What’s the Difference Between Bronchitis and Pneumonia?

Bronchitis and pneumonia are both respiratory infections, but that’s where the similarity ends. Each condition has a different cause, different symptoms, and different treatments.

At Mercy Medical Urgent Care, Dr. Bilal Khoder and our staff see many cases of bronchitis and pneumonia. A medical diagnosis is important so you can receive effective treatment. Here, we discuss the two conditions, how they’re alike, and, more importantly, how they differ.

What is bronchitis?

Bronchitis is an upper airway infection that may be caused by a virus or a bacterium. The pathogen infects your bronchial tubes — the small airways that run from your windpipe to your lungs.

Bronchitis has both short- and long-term forms:

Acute bronchitis is the short-term form. It often starts with a viral infection, like the common cold, and it generally lasts 10-14 days, with some symptoms hanging around for up to three weeks.

Chronic bronchitis is the long-term form and is actually a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It lasts for at least three months and repeatedly occurs over multiple years. 

It can be brought on by a respiratory infection, exposure to secondhand smoke, or other irritating airborne substances.

The biggest sign of bronchitis is a persistent cough that may bring up yellow-green mucus as your condition worsens. Other symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Mild fever
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Wheezing
• Fatigue

Acute viral bronchitis usually resolves by itself in just a few weeks, especially if you use over-the-counter medications that break up mucus, clear your sinuses, and fight off fevers and aches. However, if it’s bacterial bronchitis, it usually requires a course of antibiotics.

Chronic bronchitis doesn’t resolve by itself. It may require a variety of medications, therapies, or even surgery, depending on what damage has been done and how long you’ve had the problem.

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a lower respiratory infection that attacks the alveoli — the air sacs within the lungs responsible for moving oxygen into your bloodstream. Pneumonia can be bacterial, viral, or fungal in origin.

Pneumonia comes with more severe symptoms than bronchitis, and they affect your entire body. 

It's common to experience a mild form known as walking pneumonia, which can resolve on its own or with the help of treatment. However, it pays to be cautious and see a doctor because some cases can be life-threatening if not medically treated. 

Pneumonia shares many symptoms with bronchitis, but those symptoms tend to be more severe and last longer. 

Because pneumonia prevents your body from getting all the oxygen it needs, its symptoms can include:

• Deep cough
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• High fever 
• Chills
• Sweating
• Chest and/or abdominal pain, especially when coughing
• Confusion or brain fog
• Loss of appetite

Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals. We may also prescribe an inhaler to help you breathe easier. Many people have a sore throat or cough that lingers for weeks after the pneumonia has resolved.

Got a persistent cough and don’t know the cause? Mercy Medical Urgent Care is here to help. We’re open seven days a week. Walk in, or give us a call at 386-758-2944 to schedule.