Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs, often caused by an infection. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, leading to a variety of symptoms.

Symptoms

• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Confusion or changes in mental awareness (in adults age 65 and older)
• Cough that may produce phlegm
• Fatigue
• Fever, sweating, and shaking chills
• Lower than normal body temperature (in adults older than age 65 and people with weak immune systems)
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath

Pneumonia Symptoms in Infants:

• Vomiting
• Fever
• Cough
• Restlessness or tiredness
• Difficulty breathing and eating

Causes

Causes of Pneumonia:

• Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae
• Viruses: Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus (including COVID-19)
• Fungi: Histoplasma capsulatum, Blastomyces dermatitidis

Types of Pneumonia:

• Community-acquired pneumonia: The most common type, acquired outside of healthcare facilities.
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia: Develops during a hospital stay, often caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Health care-acquired pneumonia: Occurs in people receiving care in long-term care facilities or outpatient clinics.
• Aspiration pneumonia: Caused by inhaling food, drink, or saliva into the lungs.

Risk Factors

Who is at Risk for Pneumonia?

• Age: Children under 2 and adults over 65 are particularly vulnerable.
• Hospitalization: Being in a hospital intensive care unit, especially on a ventilator, increases the risk.
• Chronic diseases: Asthma, COPD, and heart disease can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility.
• Smoking: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of pneumonia.
• Weakened immune system: HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, chemotherapy, and long-term steroids can impair the immune system.

Complications

Complications of Pneumonia:

• Bacteremia: Bacteria from the lungs can enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs, leading to severe infections.
• Difficulty breathing: Severe pneumonia can impair lung function, making it difficult to breathe.
• Pleural effusion: Fluid can accumulate in the space between the lungs and chest wall, requiring drainage.
• Lung abscess: A pus-filled cavity in the lung may form, requiring treatment with antibiotics or drainage procedures.

Prevention

Prevention of Pneumonia:

• Pneumonia vaccines: Vaccines are available to protect against certain types of pneumonia, especially for high-risk groups. Consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate vaccine for you.
• Flu vaccine: Getting the flu vaccine can help prevent influenza-related pneumonia.

Healthy Lifestyle:

• Good hygiene: Washing your hands regularly and practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of respiratory infections.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of pneumonia.
• Healthy habits: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a nutritious diet to strengthen your immune system.

When to see a doctor

When to See a Doctor for Pneumonia:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Persistent fever of 102°F (39°C) or higher
• Persistent cough, especially if coughing up pus

High-Risk Groups:

• Adults older than age 65
• Children younger than age 2
• People with underlying health conditions (heart disease, lung disease, weakened immune system)
• People receiving chemotherapy or immunosuppressive medications