Complications

Complications of bronchitis

Pneumonia is the most common complication of bronchitis. It occurs when the infection spreads further into the lungs, causing the tiny air sacs inside the lungs to fill up with fluid. About 1 in 20 cases of bronchitis lead to pneumonia.

People at an increased risk of developing pneumonia include:

  • elderly people
  • people who smoke
  • people with other health conditions, such as heart, liver or kidney disease
  • people with a weakened immune system

Mild pneumonia can usually be treated with antibiotics at home. More severe cases may require admission to hospital.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 13 Feb 2018