What causes acute bronchitis?
Ask the doctor
Acute bronchitis is different from pneumonia — an infection not of the breathing tubes but of the tiny air sacs in the lung (called alveoli) where our bodies absorb oxygen. Pneumonia is a more serious condition (it can even be life-threatening) and usually requires treatment with antibiotics.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
