Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. The alveoli may fill with fluid or pus, leading to symptoms such as cough, fever, chest pain, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia may be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Pneumonia ranges from mild to severe and can become life-threatening in infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Overview
Pneumonia affects the lungs and interferes with normal gas exchange.
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The infection causes swelling and fluid buildup inside the alveoli, reducing oxygen movement into the bloodstream. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Types of Pneumonia
Bacterial Pneumonia
Caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is often more severe than viral pneumonia.
Viral Pneumonia
Caused by viruses including influenza viruses and coronaviruses.
Fungal Pneumonia
Occurs mainly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Walking Pneumonia
A milder form of pneumonia commonly caused by atypical bacteria.
Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia
Develops during hospitalization and may involve drug-resistant bacteria. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Rapid breathing
- Mucus production
Symptoms may vary depending on age, health condition, and type of infection. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Causes
Pneumonia may be caused by:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Fungi
- Aspiration of fluids or food
- Weakened immune system
Smoking, chronic lung disease, pollution, and poor immunity increase the risk of pneumonia. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Diagnosis
Doctors may diagnose pneumonia using:
- Physical examination
- Chest X-ray
- Blood tests
- CT scan
- Sputum analysis
- Pulse oximetry
Pulmonary function and oxygen levels are also evaluated in severe cases. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of pneumonia.
Common treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Antiviral medicines
- Oxygen therapy
- Rest and hydration
- Fever management
Severe cases may require hospitalization and intensive care support. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Prevention
Pneumonia risk may be reduced through:
- Vaccination
- Hand hygiene
- Avoiding smoking
- Healthy nutrition
- Regular medical care
Vaccines against influenza and pneumococcal infections help prevent some forms of pneumonia. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Complications
Possible complications include:
- Respiratory failure
- Sepsis
- Pleural effusion
- Lung abscess
- Organ failure
Untreated pneumonia may become life-threatening. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}