GERD

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease may cause both bronchitis and pneumonia to occur often. GERD causes stomach acids to reflux into the esophagus. Sometimes the acid is also aspirated into the trachea, which can lead to illness.
  
  

Weakened Immune System

• Having a secondary condition characterized by a weakened immune system may make individuals more susceptible to both bronchitis and pneumonia infections. Such conditions include luekemia, AIDS, lupus, sclerderma, multiple sclerosis and diabetes.
  
  

Cigarette Smoke

• Exposure to first- and second-hand smoke can cause recurrent bronchitis and pneumonia.
  
  

Occupational Fumes and Dusts

• Some workers who are continually exposed to fumes and dusts will repeatedly suffer from bronchitis and pneumonia as a result.
  
  

Treatment

• Antibiotics will sometimes help bronchitis if is resulted from a bacterial infection. However, viral infections do not respond to antibiotics. Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed for pneumonia.