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Differences Between Acute Bronchitis and Pneumonia


Differences Between Acute Bronchitis and Pneumonia

Acute bronchitis and pneumonia share many of the same symptoms, and some people with acute bronchitis are at risk for developing pneumonia. Although acute bronchitis usually goes away within a few weeks, pneumonia can be a serious condition, especially in older adults.

The following table outlines some differences between acute bronchitis and pneumonia. There are variations in symptoms of both conditions, so if you think you might have pneumonia, always check with your health professional.

Symptoms of acute bronchitis and pneumonia
SymptomsAcute bronchitisPneumonia

Cough

  • Dry cough at first (does not produce mucus)
  • After a few days, cough may bring up mucus from the lungs. The mucus may be clear, yellow, or green, and may be tinged with blood.
  • Cough often brings up mucus from the lungs.
  • Mucus may be rusty or green or tinged with blood.

Fever

  • Fever is not present or is mild.
  • Fever is often higher than 101 A?F (38.5 A?C).

Other

  • X-rays appear normal.
  • Usually goes away in 2 to 3 weeks
  • Heart rate faster than 100 beats a minute
  • Breathing faster than 24 breaths a minute
  • Shaking, "teeth-chattering" chills
  • X-rays do not appear normal.
  • May last longer than 2 to 3 weeks

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRobert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Last RevisedJuly 7, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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