Bronchitis and pneumonia are both lung-related illnesses, but they aren’t the same thing. Bronchitis is an infection of the bronchial tubes leading to the lungs, while pneumonia is an infection of the alveoli, the little air sacs in the lungs.

Our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road team provides other helpful facts about bronchitis and pneumonia below, so keep reading!

What Causes Bronchitis?

There are two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis is typically viral, and is caused by influenza, the same viruses that cause colds, COVID-19 and the flu.

Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, isn’t caused by a virus or bacteria. Most experts agree that the main cause of chronic bronchitis is cigarette smoking. Air pollution and your work environment may also play a role, which is especially true among those who smoke.

Common Chronic and Acute Bronchitis Symptoms

• Cough
• Production of mucus (sputum), which can be clear, white, yellowish-gray or green in color—rarely, it may be streaked with blood
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Slight fever and chills
• Chest discomfort

What Causes Pneumonia?

Many germs, like bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia, however, is the most common form of pneumonia, and it also tends to be the most dangerous form.

Pneumonia is also hardest on older adults and young children. We’ve listed common signs and symptoms of pneumonia below.

Common Pneumonia Symptoms

• Cough, which may produce greenish, yellow or even bloody mucus
• Fever, sweating and shaking chills
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Sharp or stabbing chest pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough
• Loss of appetite, low energy and fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting, especially in small children
• Confusion, especially in older people

Do you think you may have bronchitis or pneumonia? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to or visit our AFC Urgent Care Monroe Road to get the treatment you need today.