Understanding Pleural Pathologies: Pneumonia, Bronchitis & Bronchiolitis

By Global Health Pneumology Insights

At Global Health, we believe that informed patients are empowered patients. Respiratory conditions are among the most common health concerns, and understanding the differences between them is key to proper treatment. Today, we’re shedding light on three important pleural pathologies—Pneumonia, Bronchitis, and Bronchiolitis—including their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

1. Pneumonia

What it is:Pneumonia is an inflammatory injury of the lung parenchyma, the part of the lungs responsible for gas exchange. It often results from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

Symptoms (S&S):

• Cough (can be productive)

• Fever

• Shortness of breath (SOB)

• Chest pain (CP)

• Fatigue

• Confusion (especially in the elderly)

• Nausea and/or vomiting

Common Causes:

• Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common

• Viruses: influenza, RSV, SARS-CoV-2

• Fungi (in immunocompromised patients)

Treatment:

• Bacterial pneumonia: Antibiotics

• Viral pneumonia: Supportive care, antiviral medication in some cases

• Supportive care: Rest, hydration, fever control

• Severe cases may require hospitalization or oxygen therapy.

2. Bronchitis

What it is:Bronchitis is an inflammation of the large airways (bronchi) in the lungs. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term, often related to smoking or air pollution).

Symptoms (S&S):

• Cough (often persistent)

• Fever

• Shortness of breath (SOB)

• Wheezing

• Chest discomfort

Common Causes:

• Viruses (most common cause of acute bronchitis)

• Bacteria (less common)

• Irritants like smoke or pollutants (common in chronic bronchitis)

Treatment:

• Acute bronchitis: Symptomatic relief (cough medicine, rest, fluids)

• Chronic bronchitis: Inhalers (bronchodilators), corticosteroids, lifestyle changes (quitting smoking), pulmonary rehabilitation

3. Bronchiolitis

What it is:Bronchiolitis involves inflammation of the small airways (bronchioles), primarily affecting infants and young children. It’s most commonly caused by a virus.

Symptoms (S&S):

• Dry cough

• Wheezing

• Rapid or shallow breathing

• Fever

• Irritability

• Nasal congestion

Common Causes:

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is the most common

• Other viruses include adenovirus, influenza, and parainfluenza

Treatment:

• Most cases are mild and resolve on their own

• Supportive care: nasal suctioning, hydration, fever control

• Severe cases may need oxygen therapy or hospitalization

• Antibiotics are not effective unless there’s a secondary bacterial infection

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences:

• Difficulty breathing

• High fever that doesn’t improve

• Persistent wheezing or chest pain

• Decreased appetite or dehydration

• Confusion or drowsiness

Prevention Tips from Global Health

• Vaccinate: Annual flu shots and pneumonia vaccines help reduce risk

• Wash hands: Prevents the spread of viruses

• Avoid smoking: Smoking damages airways and increases susceptibility

• Healthy lifestyle: A strong immune system helps fight infections