What is Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection commonly caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacteria cause most cases of pneumonia in adults. Children more commonly get viral pneumonia. The flu virus can also cause pneumonia, especially in older adults. Inhaling food, stomach acid, toxic chemicals, smoke, fungus, or other substances can also cause pneumonia. Pneumonia can be mild or life threatening and may cause cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, fever, and chills. Older adults, young children, people with a weak immune system, and those with chronic medical conditions are more at risk for complications from pneumonia. Treatment for pneumonia may include rest and self-care at home or hospitalization, antibiotics, and oxygen therapy, depending on the severity of symptoms. Most people recover in about 2 weeks. Vaccines help prevent some of the more common types of pneumonia in those at risk.

Symptoms of Pneumonia are-

Cough,Body aches or pains,Fatigue,Fever,Shortness of breath,Night sweats,Pain or discomfort,Chills,Feeling of not being able to get enough air,Headache,Excessive sweating,Difficulty talking

Treatment

Treatment for pneumonia may include: 

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
• Antiviral therapy
• Oxygen
• Steroids

Self Care

Pneumonia can be serious, so it's important to see your doctor before treating pneumonia yourself. Self-care for pneumonia may include: 

1.Getting plenty of rest 

2.Not smoking

3.Taking pain relievers if needed; children and teenagers should not take aspirin, which is associated with a rare but serious illness called Reyes syndrome. 

4.Drinking plenty of fluids

Coughing helps clear the infection from your lungs, so talk with your doctor before using any cough syrup.

When to See Your Doctor

If you have a fever and cough up green, yellow, or brown mucus, call your doctor. Also call your doctor if cold or flu symptoms appear to be getting worse. Seek immediate medical help if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion.

Diagnosed By

Your doctor can diagnose pneumonia by taking your medical history and doing a physical exam. Other tests may include blood and urine tests, chest X-ray, and sputum testing.