The Differences Between Bronchitis And Pneumonia

Bronchitis and pneumonia are infections of the lower respiratory tract. However, it is not easy to distinguish between bronchitis and pneumonia as they both have the same symptoms and are even caused by the same bacteria.

The lower airways are the airway inside the chest and start from the trachea. They include the trachea, bronchi and alveoli. The latter are the smallest units in the lung where air exchange takes place.

Today’s article will explain the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia, their main symptoms and causes, and how they affect the airways.

The Difference Between Bronchitis And Pneumonia: What Is Bronchitis?

It is inflammation of the bronchi. This inflammation can be caused by viruses, bacteria and even tobacco smoke. There are two types of bronchitis:

Acute bronchitis

The symptoms usually last less than three weeks. It all starts because the bronchi come in direct contact with a virus or a physico-chemical agent, such as dust or allergens.

To defend against this invasion, the body recruits inflammatory cells, which are the same ones that release cytokines. These substances control the defense by acting against the bronchial cells.

There is mucus and edema in acute bronchitis and they lead to coughing, difficulty breathing and even mild fever.

Cronical bronchitis

This is when the bronchi remain inflamed. Also, bronchial mucous membranes swell and produce more mucus and shortness of breath.

The primary symptom is a continuous cough that lasts for several months and usually recurs over several years. This cough is often due to mucus production. However, chronic bronchitis can flare up and manifest itself as acute bronchitis.

Unlike acute bronchitis, the most common causes of chronic bronchitis are usually smoking, asthma and allergies. Usually, this type of bronchitis is part of a more serious condition, known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The Difference Between Bronchitis And Pneumonia: What Is Pneumonia?

This is an infection of the alveoli (lungs) and involves an inflammatory reaction. There are various causes of pneumonia, but this article will discuss the infectious kind acquired either in the community or outside of a hospital.

The oral cavity is full of microbiota that can enter the lungs through micro-inhalations – the contents of the mouth penetrate the airways. These micro-inhalations are normal, especially when we are sleeping. In addition, the body has defense systems such as coughs to prevent these bacteria and viruses from reaching the lungs.

There are times when the lungs and defense mechanisms are overwhelmed and cannot eliminate all microorganisms. That is when the alveoli fill up with them. We can capture them from our environment and the people around us.

Pneumonia

The main symptoms here are high fever, chills, cough with mucus and pain in one side of the chest. This type of pneumonia is usually caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or pneumococcus. It is the most common type of pneumonia.

Cold lung inflammation

This type of pneumonia is less symptomatic but more chronic. The cough is not wet like the previous one, but rather dry, or there may be an absence of cough. In addition, there is muscle pain, joint pain, diarrhea and fever. The latter, however, is occasional.

The differences between bronchitis and pneumonia

The symptoms of bronchitis and pneumonia actually appear to be similar, although they affect different parts of the airways. Bronchitis is directed at the bronchi, and pneumonia is directed at the alveoli. Some characters can help differentiate them.

Bronchitis, especially acute bronchitis, is self-limiting, and rest and medication to control fever and cough are usually enough. It does not require antibiotics as it, as we mentioned above, is usually a complication of colds or flu.

Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, should occur when bronchitis is chronic. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe oxygen to help the patient breathe better. It must be monitored by a specialist.

In contrast, pneumonia is much more serious and requires professional treatment to prescribe additional methods. Hospitalization may be required, depending on the severity.

Viral pneumonia does not require antibiotics, only supportive treatment. But doctors prescribe them for bacterial pneumonia.

Prevention of bronchitis and pneumonia

The best thing to do to prevent bronchitis and pneumonia is to quit smoking and stay away from smokers. This is because tobacco damages the lung cells and makes them more susceptible to these infections.

In addition, some doctors recommend the flu vaccine every year for people in high-risk groups: over 65, pregnant women and people with a chronic illness.

The symptoms of pneumonia are similar to those of bronchitis. Therefore, consult a doctor if the chest hurts and there is shortness of breath.