Pneumonia is a prevalent respiratory illness that leads to chest pain, difficulty breathing, and severe coughing. It is usually caused by bacteria and viruses and can affect anyone. The good news is that the condition can be cured with the right treatment. Hence, those experiencing the symptoms should seek expert attention immediately. This post discusses the common causes of pneumonia, its symptoms, diagnostic tests, and remedies to manage the condition better.

What causes pneumonia?
The condition can be triggered due to the following:

Bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Legionella pneumophila
Viruses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenoviruses
Fungi like Pneumocystis jirovecii and Histoplasma capsulatum
Exposure to chemicals or irritants

What are its symptoms?
The symptoms can vary depending on the cause, severity of the infection, and the individual’s overall health status. Here are some signs and symptoms of pneumonia that one should look out for:

Cough
A persistent cough is one of the most common indications. The cough may produce mucus or phlegm and may be dry or wet.

Chest pain
One may feel pain or discomfort in the chest while coughing or breathing deeply.

Shortness of breath
The condition can cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.

Fatigue
Feeling extremely tired or weak is a common symptom. Patients often feel sluggish and find it hard to perform daily activities.

Fever
A high temperature is an indication of infection. People with pneumonia often experience a fever of 100.4°F or higher.

Sweating and chills
Pneumonia can cause sweating and chills, especially with a fever.

Confusion
Older adults or those with weakened immune systems may experience confusion or disorientation.

Individuals should seek expert attention if they experience the symptoms, especially if they are severe or do not improve over time. If ignored, pneumonia can cause significant discomfort and even be life-threatening.

How is the condition diagnosed?
A proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and successful recovery. The methods for diagnosing pneumonia include:

Chest X-rays
These tests use radiation to create images of the chest, which helps doctors identify areas affected by inflammation due to infection.

Blood tests
These tests determine the presence of an active infection by measuring the level of white blood cells.

Sputum culture test
A sample taken from deep within the lungs is examined under a microscope for bacterial growth responsible for causing pneumonia.

Pulse oximetry test
It measures oxygen saturation in the patient’s bloodstream or how much oxygen the body is receiving through respiration.

How is pneumonia treated?
The type of treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is. The most common treatment options for pneumonia include:

Anti-bacterial treatments
These are used to manage bacterial infections that cause pneumonia. Depending on one’s condition, they may be taken orally or administered into the bloodstream.

Anti-viral treatments
These treatments are used to treat pneumonia caused by viruses. They work by preventing the replication of the viruses within the body’s cells, so they cannot spread further.

Oxygen therapy
This therapy involves wearing a mask that covers the nose and mouth and supplies oxygen. It helps improve breathing difficulties related to low oxygen levels in the blood. In cases of severe lung injury from infection, mechanical ventilation may be necessary for intensive respiratory support.

Supportive care measures like rest, fluid intake, and healthy nutrition should always accompany treatments for pneumonia.