Similarities and Differences

Although congestion and cough are common to both conditions, they have key differences in terms of causes, symptom severity, and treatments.

Bronchitis Pneumonia
Symptoms cough
shortness of breath
wheezing
a squeaking sound when you breathe
tightness in your chest
cough
shortness of breath
chest pain
fever
chills
nausea
vomiting
diarrhea
Causes viruses
bacteria
environmental irritants
viruses
bacteria
fungus
aspiration
Treatment anti-inflammatory medications
breathing treatments
supportive care like rest and fluids
antibiotics in rare cases
antibiotics
antivirals
antifungals
supportive care like rest and fluids