What are the differences between asthma and pneumonia?

Asthma and pneumonia differ in their symptoms. Asthma is characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath, while pneumonia starts quickly, with coughing, expectoration, and fever. Asthma is severe at night and slightly better during the day. Asthma and pneumonia also differ in their causes. Asthma is generally inherited or caused by exposure to allergens, while pneumonia is caused by smoking, viral or bacterial infections, and allergies. Pneumonia is more common in the elderly, and asthma is more common in children than adults. Asthma and pneumonia are treated differently. Pneumonia is treated mainly with antiviral or anti-inflammatory drugs, while asthma is treated with bronchodilating drugs.