Pneumonia

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a serious lung condition that occurs when a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection invades the alveoli (tiny air sacs) inside your lungs. The alveoli commonly fill with pus or fluid, leading to a variety of respiratory symptoms.

What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Pneumonia symptoms can vary based on the type of infection you have and may range from quite mild to overwhelming. You may experience:

• Coughing, possibly mucus-producing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort or pain when you inhale or cough
• Fever
• Chills
• Poor appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Headache 
• Muscle pain

These are some of the most common symptoms, but you may also have other issues, particularly if you have a chronic illness or a weakened immune system. 

Pneumonia symptoms may mimic those of other diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

Pneumonia diagnosis at TruDoc Medical LLC includes a physical exam, symptom review, and usually a chest X-ray. You may also need tests such as:

• Blood test
• Mucus culture, if you have a mucus-producing cough
• Blood oxygen test
• Lung fluid culture
• Bronchoscopy

In some cases, you might also need a CT scan to look for abscesses and other issues during the diagnostic process. 

What causes pneumonia?

There are many causes of pneumonia, with each type having different origins. 

Bacterial pneumonia

Many types of bacteria can cause pneumonia, but the most common is Streptococcus pneumoniae. Bacterial pneumonia may start after a respiratory illness, while recovering from surgery, or it can occur without any clear trigger. People with weak immune systems are especially vulnerable to bacterial pneumonia.

Viral pneumonia

Viral pneumonia usually starts after a bout of the flu. In general, viral pneumonia is less serious and doesn’t last as long as bacterial pneumonia.

Fungal pneumonia

Fungal pneumonia can develop after contact with contaminated soil or bird droppings. It also affects people with long-term chronic illnesses. 

In general, the healthier you are, the less likely you are to develop any type of pneumonia. Getting the flu shot yearly and the pneumonia vaccination can also lower your risk.

How is pneumonia treated?

Treatment depends on the type and cause of your pneumonia, as well as symptom severity. For bacterial pneumonia, you typically receive antibiotics. With viral pneumonia, you may need antivirals, and with fungal pneumonia, you may need antifungals. 

Rest, increased fluids, and fever-relieving drugs like aspirin can also help to ease your symptoms and improve your recovery. For severe cases, supplemental oxygen may be necessary or hospitalization.

Untreated pneumonia can potentially cause organ failure or other severe complications, so don’t ignore symptoms. Call TruDoc Medical LLC or book an appointment using the scheduling link now.