Respiratory illnesses can leave you feeling drained and struggling to breathe comfortably. Two common culprits– bronchitis and pneumonia– often cause confusion because they share overlapping symptoms. Understanding the differences is crucial for seeking the proper treatment. In this blog, we’ll compare the symptoms of bronchitis to the symptoms of pneumonia and discuss when it might be necessary to seek medical treatment.
For same-day flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. Our center provides in-person and remote care via telemedicine seven days a week. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Bronchitis: Causes and Symptoms
Bronchitis occurs when the bronchial tubes, which carry air to your lungs, become inflamed. This condition can be acute, typically caused by a viral infection like the common cold, or chronic, often linked to smoking or prolonged exposure to irritants. Acute bronchitis usually improves within a few weeks, while chronic bronchitis may require ongoing management.
Common symptoms of bronchitis include:
- Persistent Cough: Often produces clear, yellow, or green mucus
- Chest Discomfort: Mild pain or tightness in the chest
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired due to difficulty breathing
- Mild Fever: Sometimes accompanied by chills
- Wheezing: A whistling sound when you breathe
Pneumonia: Causes and Symptoms
Pneumonia is a more severe condition where the air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid or pus due to an infection, which can be viral, bacterial, or fungal. It can affect one or both lungs and varies in severity from mild to life-threatening, especially for older adults, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Severe Cough: Often accompanied by yellow, green, or bloody mucus
- High Fever: Frequently over 101°F, with chills and sweating
- Shortness of Breath: Even during rest or minimal activity
- Sharp Chest Pain: Worsens with deep breaths or coughing
- Blue Lips or Fingernails: A sign of low oxygen in severe cases
How To Tell The Difference & When To Seek Care
Although bronchitis and pneumonia share symptoms like coughing, fatigue, and chest discomfort, pneumonia typically presents with more intense symptoms, such as high fever and difficulty breathing. If your cough is severe, persistent, and producing discolored mucus, or if you’re experiencing extreme fatigue and a high fever, you may have pneumonia. Both conditions can escalate without proper treatment. If you experience symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly.
Urgent care providers can perform diagnostic tests like chest X-rays to distinguish between bronchitis and pneumonia. Depending on the diagnosis, they may recommend supportive care, antibiotics (for bacterial pneumonia), or antiviral medication.
Get Walk-In Testing and Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl in Littleton, CO
Whether it’s bronchitis or pneumonia, timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help you get back to breathing easily. At AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl, our skilled team of healthcare professionals is ready to help. Visit our center for fast, compassionate care whenever you need it. We are proud to offer convenient, affordable, and efficient preventive healthcare to all patients and families in the Littleton, CO area and surrounding communities. We operate on a patient-first approach, providing personalized treatment plans for each individual. Most health insurance plans are accepted and we offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. The clinic is open seven days a week, with walk-in visits welcomed. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please call our office directly at (720) 818-8010.
