Can You Differentiate Between Pneumonia and Bronchitis? Expert Tips To Tell Them Apart

How To Know If It Is Bronchitis Or Pneumonia?

Dr. Gangakhedkar says, “Bronchitis can be broken down into 'bronchia,' which refers to the swelling of the bronchial tubes, and 'itis,' which means inflammation, which together means 'bronchial swelling.'" So, any irritation of the respiratory tract, which could be because of smoke, dust, viruses, bacteria, or even cold air, can cause such a swelling. This results in increased mucus secretion and may cause breathlessness as well.”

In contrast, pneumonia is a lung infection where the air sacs (alveoli) become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus. According to Dr. Gangakhedkar, “Pneumonia happens most commonly due to an infection caused by an organism like a bacterium or a virus.”

Pneumonia is usually caused by bacteria or viruses and is generally more severe than bronchitis. Our expert elaborates on its symptoms, which include fever, chills, a productive cough (with yellow, green, or bloody mucus), sharp chest pain, and fatigue. Dr. Gangakhedkar explains, “In pneumonia, lung tissue itself is involved, which can be observed on an X-ray, a feature not commonly seen with bronchitis alone.”

Why The Confusion?

Both bronchitis and pneumonia share common symptoms like coughing, breathlessness, and chest discomfort, making it easy to confuse the two. However, there are crucial differences. Bronchitis mainly involves the airways, while pneumonia affects the lung tissue. 

Dr. Gangakhedkar points out, “A small percentage of bronchitis cases can progress to pneumonia. Recognising this progression is vital, especially in vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those with pre-existing lung conditions like asthma or COPD.”

RELATED: Pain While Deep Breathing Could Be Bronchitis, Try These 7 Effective Home Remedies For Relief

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

If you experience a high fever, severe shortness of breath, sharp chest pain, or a persistent cough with yellow, green, or bloody mucus, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

Treatment Approaches Suggested By Our Expert

The treatment of bronchitis and pneumonia depends on the severity and underlying cause. For bronchitis, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rest, hydration, and medications such as bronchodilators and cough suppressants can help. Antibiotics are only necessary if a bacterial infection is present, as most cases of bronchitis are viral.

Pneumonia often requires more intensive care. Treatment usually involves antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the type of infection. Severe cases may need oxygen therapy or hospitalization. Dr. Gangakhedkar emphasises, “Pneumonia can lead to hospitalisation more frequently, especially in older adults and those with underlying health issues. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications.”

Our expert says that treatment for both of them can require sputum evaluation, specific antibiotics, mucus-facilitating agents, bronchodilators, and at times cough suppressants.

Dr. Gangakhedkar further adds that bronchitis as an acute phenomenon may resolve in the short term in an otherwise normal individual, while pneumonia may have some lasting effect if not treated appropriately. Some patients who are chronic smokers have bronchitis-like symptoms for most of the year and can be diagnosed with chronic bronchitis. Identifying if you have bronchitis or pneumonia remains crucial to the treatment.

What Should You Understand From This?

While both bronchitis and pneumonia affect breathing and share some symptoms, pneumonia is more severe and can lead to hospitalization. Understanding the differences can help you seek timely and appropriate medical care, leading to better outcomes.