What Is The Difference Between Bronchitis And Pneumonia?

Posted on Fri, 15 Apr 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 Answered on

Wed, 29 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : What is difference from bronchitis and pneumonia ,I'm wheezing and coughing

Answered by Dr. Deepak (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Discussed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Welcome to HCM.
Thank you for the query.

Although both mimic each other, there are few differences.
Bronchitis is an Upper respiratory tract infection. There is inflammation of bronchus(air way ie beginning part of respiratory tract). It is usually associated with dry cough in early stage, NO Fever, normal appearance of chest X-ray, most of times subside on its own.
But Pneumoniais a Lower respiratory tract infection where lung parenchyma(late/ ending part of respiratory tract) is involved which may show inflammatory response, atelectasis (partial or complete collapse of lung lobes), high degree fever, abnormal x ray finding, effusion (fluid in lungs). It is an emergency and if neglected may result in fatal outcome. It is relieved only on proper antibiotics.

But if there is wheezing, most of time it is due to Asthma which also presents with cough. I would suggest you to consult a qualified Pulmonologist for detailed examination and investigations.

Hope I have clarified the difference.
Take care, Bye.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak

Follow up: Dr. Deepak (4 hours later)

Thank u very much ,helpful ,now doctor put me on ,one week rest ,

Answered by Dr. Deepak (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Follow your doctor's advice

Detailed Answer:
Hello.
Welcome back.

I'm glad I could help you.
Rest during such episode of symptoms is usually followed everywhere.
I agree with your doctor.
Kindly follow their instructions without fail.

Hope you recover soon.

Take care, Bye.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak