Pneumonia

Overview and Facts about Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that occurs in the air sacs of the lungs. It can occur in one lung or both. The inflection causes the air sacs to fill with fluid or pus, which results in difficulty breathing.

While many cases of pneumonia are mild, they can become serious and even life-threatening. Pneumonia is most dangerous for infants and young children, adults 65 and older and those with weakened immune systems.

Signs and Symptoms of Pneumonia

Symptoms of pneumonia can range from mild to severe and include:

In infants, pneumonia may not manifest in the common visible symptoms. Instead, infants may appear restless, tired, or without energy. They may struggle to breathe and may not want to eat.

Causes and Risk Factors of Pneumonia

Pneumonia can be caused from bacteria, viruses, or other germs. The most common form of the condition is the result of bacteria and often develops after a cold or flu.

Other types of pneumonia include:

• Fungal pneumonia, which is likely to occur in those with chronic health conditions or a weakened immune system
• Viral pneumonia, which is most common in children under five
• Walking pneumonia, which is caused by bacteria-like organisms and often tends to be mild

Pneumonia can also result from aspiration, which is when food, drinks or vomit unintentionally enters the lungs.

Some cases of pneumonia are acquired during hospital stays and can be more resistant to treatment. These cases are often found in intensive care units or long-term facilities in patients who are on breathing machines.

Risk factors of developing pneumonia include:

• Being two or younger
• Being 65 or older
• Being hospitalized
• Having a chronic disease
• Having a suppressed or weakened immune system
• Smoking

Tests and Diagnosis of Pneumonia

Pneumonia is often diagnosed by a primary care physician after he or she performs a physical exam, discuss the patient’s medical history, and listen to the lungs with a stethoscope.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may order the following:

• Blood tests
• Chest X-rays
• CT scan
• Sputum test
• Pleural fluid culture
• Pulse oximetry

Treatment and Care of Pneumonia

To treat pneumonia, doctors work to cure the infection and prevent complications. Mild to moderate cases can be treated at home with antibiotics, cough medication, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Although antibiotics can eliminate the infection, the effects of pneumonia, such as tiredness and weakness, can last a month or more.

In more severe cases, or with those who have a higher risk, hospitalization may be necessary, especially for those patients who: