Bronchitiscan turn intopneumoniain some cases if the infection spreads from one part of the respiratory tract to another.

Pneumonia and bronchitis are different respiratory infections but they often have similar symptoms, like fever and cough.

However, acute bronchitis can lead to either viral or bacterial pneumonia.

woman blowing her nose

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In adults, the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia is a bacterial infection.

Of these,Streptococcus pneumoniae(pneumococcal pneumonia) is most common.

In some cases, fungi are responsible, as well as chemical exposures (chemical pneumonia).

for do so, however, it’s important to know whether or not you have bronchitis.

Antibiotics are not indicated for viral infections; using them can increase resistance.

Resting, sleeping when necessary, and getting adequate fluids is very important.

The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for children younger than 5 and adults 50 years or older.

It also recommends vaccination for children and adults at increased risk for pneumococcal disease.

Bronchitis vs. Perhaps more important than understanding these conditions, and when to worry, is being your own advocate.

You know your body.

If something seems wrong, or you feel like something bad could happen, talk to your healthcare provider.

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Kinkade S, Long NA.Acute Bronchitis.Am Fam Physician; 94(7):560-565.

American Lung Association.Pneumonia symptoms and diagnosis.