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Overview
Bronchitis and pneumonia are two types of viral or respiratory infections that strike adults and children every year. While the two conditions are similar, there are also some differences. In a few cases, the two conditions may exist at the same time and the person experiences symptoms of bronchitis pneumonia such as coughing and excessive mucus.
Pain
A large number of patients suffering from bronchitis pneumonia exhibit symptoms relating to pain in their back or pain in their chest. This is caused by the virus settling in the chest and the lungs forcing themselves to expand as the individual inhales and exhales. The back pain is usually settled around the shoulders and upper areas, but in some cases the patients may have pain in their lower back. The pain increases when they take a deep breath.
Cough
The symptom most often associated with bronchitis pneumonia is a persistent cough. The cough can be quite bad at times and last for weeks at a time, especially if left untreated. Patients may notice that the cough worsens when they attempt physical activity, even something small such as climbing the stairs. The cough also worsens when they lay down on their back or side. This position of the body forces the lungs to fill with mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe.
Mucus
Patients with bronchitis pneumonia will almost always exhibit symptoms relating to mucus, which is called sputum in the medical community. The mucus is typically brown in appearance, though it can also be green and in most cases the mucus will appear to have several different shades of the same color. This mucus comes out when the individual coughs, and as their cough worsens, the buildup of mucus also increases. This buildup can also disrupt their normal breathing patterns.
Flu-like Symptoms
There are many flu-like symptoms that relate to bronchitis pneumonia. These symptoms are quite common and, when combined with other symptoms like a cough and high level of mucus, typically show a viral or respiratory infection. Patients may run a high fever while experiencing chills and feeling extremely cold. They may also feel tired and weak or have problems performing their regular activities. In a small number of cases the patients will also suffer from excessive perspiration.
Heart Rate
A few people with bronchitis pneumonia experience a rapid or accelerated heart beat. This is defined as a heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute. This usually causes the person to feel lightheaded and dizzy or make them have problems breathing. This typically worsens when they attempt physical activity or try to walk around. The increased heart rate has also led some to feeling nervous and anxious. When combined with other symptoms, it usually represents this type of condition.
