Pneumonia

What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material), causing a severe cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

Seriousness: It ranges from mild to life-threatening. It is most dangerous for infants, people over age 65, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from mild (often called "Walking Pneumonia") to severe.

General Symptoms

• Chest Pain: Sharp pain when you breathe deeply or cough.
• Cough: Often produces thick, sticky phlegm or pus.
• Fever: Sweating and shaking chills.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and muscle aches.
• Shortness of Breath.

Symptoms by Age Group

• Newborns & Infants: May not show infection signs. Look for vomiting, fever, restlessness, or difficulty eating/breathing.
• Seniors (>65): May have a lower than normal body temperature and sudden confusion (changes in mental awareness).

⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Seek immediate care if you have:

• Difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain.
• Persistent fever of 102°F (39°C) or higher.
• High Risk: If the patient is a child under 2, an adult over 65, or has a weakened immune system (Chemo/HIV).

Causes & Types

Pneumonia is classified by the germ that causes it and where you caught it.

1. Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Occurs outside of hospitals (in daily life). Causes include:

• Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause.
• Bacteria-like organisms: Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes milder "Walking Pneumonia."
• Viruses: Common causes of colds/flu can trigger pneumonia. This is the most common type in children under 2.
• Fungi: Found in soil or bird droppings; usually affects people with weak immune systems.

2. Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia

Caught during a hospital stay (48 hours or more after admission). This is often more serious because the bacteria may be resistant to standard antibiotics.

3. Aspiration Pneumonia

Occurs when you inhale food, drink, vomit, or saliva into your lungs. Common if the gag reflex is impaired (e.g., brain injury or excessive alcohol use).

Complications

While treatable, pneumonia can lead to:

• Bacteremia: Bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially causing organ failure.
• Pleural Effusion: Fluid buildup around the lungs.
• Lung Abscess: A pus-filled cavity in the lung.
• Respiratory Failure: Requiring a ventilator to breathe.

Diagnosis

Doctors listen to your lungs for crackling or bubbling sounds. Confirmation tests include:

• Chest X-Ray: To see the location and extent of the infection.
• Blood Tests: To confirm infection type.
• Pulse Oximetry: To measure oxygen levels in the blood.
• Sputum Test: Analyzing the mucus you cough up to pinpoint the germ.

Treatment

Treatment involves curing the infection and preventing complications.

1. Medications

• Antibiotics: For bacterial pneumonia. Crucial: Take the entire course even if you feel better, or the bacteria may return resistant.
• Antivirals: For viral pneumonia (antibiotics do not work on viruses).
• Fever Reducers: Aspirin or Ibuprofen for comfort.

2. Home Care

• Rest: Do not return to work/school until your fever is gone and you stop coughing up mucus.
• Hydrate: Water helps loosen the mucus in your lungs so you can cough it out.
• Manage Cough: Coughing helps clear the lungs, so don't suppress it completely with medicine unless it prevents you from sleeping.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.