A random sneeze, a rogue cough happens, and a chill runs down your spine! Sounds familiar?

At this time of the year, with the changing weather, a lot of people are falling sick. There is also a gradual increase in the number of COVID-19 cases yet again. So, when you develop a cough or a fever, it is easy and natural to assume the worst - that you have COVID-19.

However, it could be bronchitis that is troubling you. The symptoms of bronchitis could be deceivingly similar to COVID-19, but they are different conditions that need to be managed differently. 

Read on to find out more about bronchitis and COVID-19. 

Differences Between Bronchitis And COVID-19

1. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes (tubes that carry air to your lungs). It can be acute (sudden and short-term) or chronic (long-term). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious respiratory disease. 

2. Acute bronchitis is caused by viruses, bacteria, and exposure to environmental irritants.

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (novel Coronavirus). It spreads in the form of respiratory droplets and aerosols.

3. Symptoms of acute bronchitis include:


Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

4. Bronchitis is diagnosed by observing symptoms, listening to lungs, and performing additional tests such as X-ray and blood tests.

COVID-19 is diagnosed with a viral swab test from inside your nose or throat. 

Points to Consider

  • Only a medical professional can diagnose whether you have COVID-19 or bronchitis.

  • Bronchitis does not cause COVID-19 or make you more likely to get it. However, if you have chronic bronchitis, you are more likely to develop a serious illness if you catch COVID-19.

  • The most common complication for both bronchitis and COVID-19 is pneumonia.

  • If you have any symptoms of respiratory distress, get yourself tested at the earliest and begin the right treatment, whether it is bronchitis or COVID-19. 

Remember to wear a mask, sanitise your hands, and maintain a safe distance from others.


References:

1. Who.int. 2021. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) – World Health Organization. [online] Available at: <https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019> [Accessed 29 October 2021].

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. Suffering from a chest cold?. [online] Available at: <https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/bronchitis.html> [Accessed 29 October 2021].


Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.