Are Bronchitis and Pneumonia Dangerous?

February 1, 2023

Both bronchitis and pneumonia share similar symptoms, so it can be hard to tell on your own what you are suffering from. While you may know that a deep cough that produces mucus might indicate a lung infection, we have the tools and equipment necessary to provide you with a more accurate diagnosis.

If left untreated, bronchitis and pneumonia can turn into more severe infections that are actually life threatening. This is why it is so important to stop by AFC Urgent Care Ooltewah for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Read on to learn more about the difference between bronchitis and pneumonia.

What Do Bronchitis and Pneumonia Do in Your Body?

While both are lung infections, they affect different parts of your lungs. A bronchitis infection settles into your bronchial tubes, which are in charge of carrying air to your lungs. The irritation of these tubes is what can cause your symptoms and a wheezing cough. With pneumonia, the infection settles into your alveoli. Alveoli are the little air sacs that help exchange oxygen into your blood. This type of infection causes fluid to build up in these sacs, and it can cause trouble breathing.

Bronchitis symptoms tend to be more localized in your chest area, though you may develop a fever as a result of the infection. The symptoms of pneumonia can be felt more throughout your body and can cause low energy, body aches and nausea.

Indications of Bronchitis

Tightness in chest
Severe coughing with clear or green mucus
Wheezing
Fever

Why Are Lung Infections Dangerous?

If bronchitis is left untreated, it can actually develop into a case of pneumonia as well. Any time there is fluid where it shouldn’t be within your body, it can be troublesome for you. Difficulty breathing is always a concern, and it can become worse or even cause you to stop being able to breathe on your own completely.

If your pneumonia was caused by some type of bacteria, early treatment is crucial to prevent something called bacteremia. Bacteremia means that the bacteria that caused your infection entered your bloodstream and spread to other organs. If the bacteria gets widespread enough, it can cause multi-organ failure and even death. We are here to help diagnose and treat your lung condition! Come see us at the onset of your symptoms for an accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment plan.