Pneumonia is an infection in one or both lungs. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi cause it.
The infection causes inflammation in the air sacs in your lungs, which are called alveoli. The alveoli fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe.
The germs that cause pneumonia are contagious. This means they can spread from person to person.
Both viral and bacterial pneumonia can spread to others through inhalation of airborne droplets from a sneeze or cough. You can also get these types of pneumonia by coming into contact with surfaces or objects that are contaminated with pneumonia-causing bacteria or viruses.
Symptoms of pneumonia
Pneumonia symptoms can be mild to life-threatening. They can include:
coughing that may produce phlegm (mucus)
fever
sweating or chills
shortness of breath that happens while doing normal activities or even while resting
chest pain that’s worse when you breathe or cough
feelings of tiredness or fatigue
loss of appetite
nausea or vomiting
headaches
ther symptoms can vary according to your age and general health:
Children under 5 years old may have fast breathing or wheezing.
Infants may appear to have no symptoms, but sometimes they may vomit, lack energy, or have trouble drinking or eating.
Older people may have milder symptoms. They can also exhibit confusion or a lower than normal body temperature.
Causes of pneumonia
There are several types of infectious agents that can cause pneumonia.
Bacterial pneumonia
The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae.
ypes of pneumonia
Pneumonia can also be classified according to where or how it was acquired.
Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP)
This type of bacterial pneumonia is acquired during a hospital stay. It can be more serious than other types, as the bacteria involved may be more resistant to antibiotics.
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)
Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) refers to pneumonia that’s acquired outside of a medical or institutional setting.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP)
When people who are using a ventilator get pneumonia, it’s called VAP.
Aspiration pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia happens when you inhale bacteria into your lungs from food, drink, or saliva. This type is more likely to occur if you have a swallowing problem or if you’re too sedate from the use of medications, alcohol, or other drugs.
Pneumonia treatment
Your treatment will depend on the type of pneumonia you have, how severe it is, and your general health.
Pneumonia prevention
If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking makes you more susceptible to respiratory infections, especially pneumonia.
Regularly wash your hands with soap and water.
Cover your coughs and sneezes. Promptly dispose used tissues.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen your immune system. Get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and get regular exercise.
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