Pneumonia is a serious infection that attacks the lungs, specifically the alveoli, responsible for gas exchange. The disease can be caused by a variety of agents, most commonly bacteria and viruses, less commonly fungi or parasites. Pneumonia affects people of all ages, but children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.
Types of pneumonia
Pneumonia can be divided into several types, depending on the causative agent of the infection:
- Bacterial pneumonia: the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. Other bacteria that can cause pneumonia include Haemophilus influenzae, Legionella pneumophila and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- Viral pneumonia: Viruses responsible for pneumonia include influenza virus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), adenoviruses and coronaviruses.
- Fungal pneumonia: This type of pneumonia is less common and usually affects people with weakened immune systems.
- Other types of pneumonia: pneumonia can also be caused by parasites, chemicals, and as a result of an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of pneumonia
Symptoms of pneumonia can vary and depend on a number of factors, such as the age of the patient, the type of agent causing the infection and general health. The most common symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Fever: Often high, above 38°C, accompanied by chills.
- Cough: Initially dry, then with expectoration of sputum, which may be yellowish, greenish or even bloody.
- Shortness of breath: A feeling of shortness of breath, exacerbated during exertion.
- Chest pain: Increased during coughing and deep breathing.
- General weakness: Fatigue, lack of appetite, muscle aches.
In the elderly, symptoms of pneumonia may be less specific, such as confusion, lethargy, and decreased appetite. In infants and young children, high fever, cough, difficulty breathing, vomiting and diarrhea may occur.
Risk factors
There are many factors that increase the risk of pneumonia:
- Age: Infants, young children and the elderly are more susceptible to infection.
- Weakened immune system: People with chronic diseases, taking immunosuppressive drugs or after transplants are at higher risk of pneumonia.
- Smoking: Cigarette smoking damages the defense mechanisms of the respiratory system.
- Chronic diseases: Asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease increase the risk of pneumonia.
- Contact with sick people: Being in close contact with people with pneumonia increases the risk of infection.
Diagnosis of pneumonia
The diagnosis of pneumonia is based on a medical examination, clinical symptoms and the results of additional tests:
- Physical examination: The doctor auscultates the lungs with a stethoscope, checks the respiratory rate, and measures body temperature.
- Chest X-ray: X-rays can visualize inflammatory changes in the lungs.
- Laboratory tests: Blood count, ESR, CRP may indicate inflammation. In some cases, sputum examination or bronchoscopy may be necessary.
Treatment of pneumonia
Treatment of pneumonia depends on the type of agent causing the infection, the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s overall health.
- Bacterial pneumonia: Treatment involves the supply of antibiotics. It is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms subside early.
- Viral pneumonia: In most cases, treatment is symptomatic and consists of fever reduction, cough relief and rest. In some cases, antiviral drugs may be necessary.
- Other types of pneumonia: Treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation.
In cases of severe pneumonia, hospitalization may be necessary.
Complications of pneumonia
Untreated or poorly treated pneumonia can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Pleuritis: Inflammation of the pleura, the membrane surrounding the lungs.
- Lung abscess: acc umulation of pus in the lungs.
- Respiratory failure: A condition in which the lungs are unable to provide the body with adequate oxygen.
- Sepsis: A generalized infection of the body.
Prevention of pneumonia
There are many ways to reduce the risk of contracting pneumonia:
- Vaccinations: Pneumococcal, influenza and pertussis vaccinations are an effective way to prevent pneumonia.
- Hygiene: Frequent hand washing, covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing help reduce the spread of microorganisms.
- Avoid contact with sick people: If possible, avoid contact with people suffering from respiratory infections.
- Healthy lifestyle: non-smoking, healthy diet, physical activity strengthen the immune system.
Pneumonia in children
Pneumonia in children often has a more severe course than in adults. Symptoms may be less specific, such as irritability, lethargy, lack of appetite. If you suspect pneumonia in a child, consult a doctor immediately.
Pneumonia in the elderly
Older people are more susceptible to pneumonia and are more likely to experience complications. Symptoms may be atypical, such as confusion, weakness and decreased activity. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important for the elderly.
Summary
Pneumonia is a serious disease that can affect anyone. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to recovery. Let’s remember prevention, vaccination and hygiene to reduce the risk of contracting the disease.
