There are many conditions that can affect the lungs. Some are long-term that become worse over time, while others are infections that resolve themselves within a few days or weeks.
Some infections can be more serious than others, especially for vulnerable groups such as the young or the elderly and those with underlying health problems. Pneumonia is one such infection that can strike suddenly and become serious for those that are considered vulnerable.
Pneumonia is a viral or bacterial infection that affects the lungs. It causes inflammation and a build-up of fluid and mucus in the air sacs of these respiratory organs. This can lead to severe breathing problems and eventual hospitalisation.
Only the viral form is thought to be contagious, but good personal hygiene can make it harder for both bacterial and viral pneumonia to spread from person to person.
There are many symptoms that are associated with pneumonia. These include persistent cough with the presence of yellow or green mucus, chest pains, fever, breathlessness, body aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and wheezing when breathing. Urgent medical attention should be sought if breathlessness and fever become severe.
Pneumonia is usually caused by viral and bacterial infections. It can also sometimes be a secondary infection caused by another illness, such as the flu. Therefore, incidences of pneumonia can be higher during a peak outbreak of seasonal flu.
Pneumonia is rarely caused by fungal infections, but this is more so in people with underlying health problems such as diabetes. Another rare cause is from choking on food or water, resulting in either entering the lungs. This is known as aspiration pneumonia.
For healthy individuals, pneumonia usually passes after a couple of weeks, but risk factors such as preexisting lung conditions can mean that pneumonia can become life-threatening.
Individuals with asthma or COPD can become seriously ill if they catch pneumonia and often need medical treatment with antibiotics and oxygen. Smokers are also at increased risk of developing this lung condition.
Diagnosing pneumonia is usually made if any of the numerous symptoms are present in a patient. More than three being experienced can help doctors make a quicker diagnosis. If pneumonia is suspected, then X-rays can be performed, and sputum tests can help identify whether the cause is bacterial.
Treatment of pneumonia includes plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and completing a course of any antibiotics that have been prescribed. If pneumonia is severe, then oxygen may need to be administered, along with anti-inflammatories, in a hospital.
IV antibiotics may also be given in hospitals, and patients may need intensive care treatment, especially if sepsis develops.
Even after successful treatment of pneumonia, some symptoms may persist for weeks, such as coughing and fatigue.
Avoiding smoking can help individuals become less susceptible to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. Eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants from a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and getting plenty of rest can help boost the immune system and aid in the fight against bacterial and viral invaders.