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**
Symptoms	Acute bronchitis	Pneumonia
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°F (38.5°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

Author	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Last Updated	July 23, 2008