Pneumonia causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

        Pneumonia causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli) of one or both lungs. These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe. Pneumonia can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Causes:

Pneumonia can be caused by various microorganisms, including:

Bacteria: The most common bacterial cause is Streptococcus pneumoniae, but others include Haemophilus influenzae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Viruses: Respiratory viruses, such as the flu (influenza), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronaviruses (including COVID-19), can also cause pneumonia.

Fungi: Fungal infections, such as those caused by Histoplasma or Coccidioides, can lead to pneumonia, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Aspiration: Inhaling food, liquids, or vomit into the lungs can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

Symptoms:

Cough (may produce green, yellow, or bloody mucus)

Fever

Shortness of breath

Chest pain or pleuritic pain (sharp pain that worsens with breathing)

Fatigue

Sweating and chills

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (more common in viral pneumonia)

Risk factors:

Age: Children under 2 years and adults over 65 are more vulnerable.

Chronic conditions: People with conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are at higher risk.

Smoking: Smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of infections.

Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or immunosuppressive treatments (e.g., chemotherapy) can make one more susceptible to pneumonia.

Diagnosis:

Physical examination: A doctor may listen to your lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds, like crackles or wheezing.

Chest X-ray: To check for signs of infection or fluid in the lungs.

Blood tests: To identify infection or inflammation.

Sputum culture: To identify the microorganism causing the infection.

Treatment:

Antibiotics: For bacterial pneumonia, treatment typically involves antibiotics. The choice depends on the type of bacteria suspected.

Antivirals: If a virus is the cause (e.g., influenza), antiviral drugs may be prescribed.

Supportive care: Rest, fluids, and fever control.

Hospitalization: Severe pneumonia may require hospitalization, especially for individuals with difficulty breathing or complications.

Prevention:

Vaccines: Vaccines like the pneumococcal vaccine and the flu shot can help prevent some types of pneumonia.

Good hygiene: Regular handwashing and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing can reduce the risk.

Quit smoking: Smoking increases vulnerability to respiratory infections.

If pneumonia is suspected, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.