Pneumonia

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, leading to symptoms such as coughing, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can be caused by various organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Types of Pneumonia

1. Bacterial Pneumonia

• Most common cause: Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Can affect people of all ages, but more severe in those with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.

2. Viral Pneumonia

• Common causes: Influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses.
• Typically less severe but can become serious, especially in young children, older adults, or those with compromised immune systems.

3. Fungal Pneumonia

• More common in people with weakened immune systems.
• Common causes: Histoplasma, Coccidioides, and Pneumocystis jirovecii.

4. Aspiration Pneumonia

• Caused by inhaling food, liquid, or vomit into the lungs.
• Higher risk: People with swallowing difficulties or those who are intoxicated.

Common Symptoms of Pneumonia

• Cough: May produce green, yellow, or bloody mucus.
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Confusion: Especially in older adults.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Bacteria, viruses, and fungi: The most common causes of pneumonia.
• Weakened immune system: Increases the risk of developing pneumonia.
• Chronic diseases: Such as asthma, COPD, and heart disease.
• Smoking: Damages the lungs and reduces their ability to fight off infection.
• Age: Infants, young children, and older adults are at higher risk.

Diagnosis

• Medical history and physical examination: To check for signs like crackling or wheezing in the lungs.
• Chest X-ray: Confirms the presence and extent of the infection.
• Blood tests: To check for infection and identify the type of organism causing pneumonia.
• Sputum test: Analyzes mucus for the cause of the infection.
• Pulse oximetry: Measures the oxygen level in the blood.

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics: For bacterial pneumonia, tailored based on the specific bacteria.
• Antiviral medications: For viral pneumonia, such as those caused by influenza.
• Antifungal treatments: For fungal pneumonia.
• Supportive care:
  • Rest and hydration
  • Over-the-counter medications: To manage fever and pain.
  • Oxygen therapy: For severe cases to improve breathing.

Prevention Strategies

• Vaccination:
  • Pneumococcal vaccine: Protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae.
  • Flu vaccine: Reduces the risk of pneumonia caused by influenza.
• Good hygiene practices: Frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
• Quit smoking: To improve lung health.
• Healthy lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to strengthen the immune system.

Complications of Pneumonia

• Pleurisy and pleural effusion: Inflammation or fluid buildup in the space between the lungs and chest cavity.
• Lung abscess: Pus-filled cavity in the lung.
• Sepsis: Severe infection that spreads into the bloodstream and can lead to organ failure.
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): Severe inflammation that prevents the lungs from providing enough oxygen to the body.
• Chronic lung conditions: Increased risk of long-term breathing problems.