Pneumonia is an illness that sends millions of people to the hospital every year – and it claims the lives of more than 50,000 people annually. Absolutely anyone can get pneumonia, which makes this ailment particularly concerning. Even if you aren’t older or in poor health, pneumonia can be caused by more than 30 different germs. Are you at risk for pneumonia? You can search online to learn more.
Year after year, pneumonia affects people who are exposed to common bacteria and viruses. Even something as simple as developing the flu can lead to pneumonia. Search online to learn how the signs and symptoms of pneumonia can begin.
Causes of Pneumonia
Pneumonia can be caused by many, many different germs. Even common bacteria and viruses present in the air you breathe can develop into pneumonia as germs infect your lungs. When those germs overpower your immune system and take hold in the lungs, pneumonia can leave you struggling to breathe.
Pneumonia is even classified based on the types of germs that cause it. You can develop any of the following types of pneumonia:
- Community-acquired pneumonia, which is the most common type of bacteria. It’s caused by bacteria, bacteria-like organisms, fungi, and viruses.
- Hospital-acquired pneumonia, which can be contracted during a hospital stay for another illness. It’s caused by more resistant bacteria that can be challenging to treat with antibiotics.
- Healthcare-acquired pneumonia, which occurs in people who are living in long-term care facilities or regular receiving care in outpatient settings. It’s caused by bacteria that’s more antibiotic resistant.
- Aspiration pneumonia, which can be contracted when you inhale food, drink, vomit, or saliva into your lungs.
Pneumonia can appear as the result of so many different types of bacteria, viruses, and more. That’s what makes this ailment so common and so easy to contract.
Who’s At Risk for Pneumonia?
Absolutely everyone is at risk for pneumonia. Anyone can develop this illness.
However, there are certain factors that put some people at a higher risk for developing pneumonia. If you have any of these factors, you may be more likely to contract pneumonia:
- Are under age 2 or over age 65.
- Have been exposed to chemicals, pollutants, or toxic fumes.
- Are a smoker, heavy alcohol drinker, or are malnourished.
- Have any kind of lung disease.
- Are in the hospital, particularly the ICU.
- Have a weakened immune system.
- Struggle to cough or swallow.
- Have recently been sick with a cold or the flu.
If you’re worried about your risk for pneumonia, make sure to talk with your doctor. There may be precautions you can take to avoid developing this illness.
Pneumonia Signs and Symptoms
When pneumonia takes effect, it can be very difficult to determine whether you’re suffering from pneumonia or your average case of the common cold. Symptoms can range from mild to very severe.
In most cases, mild symptoms are very similar to the same symptoms you’d experience with a cold or the flu. However, those symptoms can last longer.
Commonly, signs and symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Chest pain when coughing or breathing.
- Feeling confused.
- Changes in your mental awareness, particularly if you’re 65 or older.
- A cough that produces phlegm.
- Fatigue.
- A fever.
- Sweating or shaking chills.
- A lower-than-normal body temperature.
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Shortness of breath.
The symptoms you experience will depend on factors like the type of germs causing your unique case of pneumonia and your age. For example, newborns and infants might not show any symptoms at all. Individuals who are older or have weakened immune systems may have more severe symptoms. Anyone can suffer from symptoms that are mild or severe; it just depends on your unique case.
If you’re having any difficulty breathing, are experiencing chest pain, or have a persistent fever, it’s time to see your doctor. A persistent cough is also a good reason to make an appointment. The sooner you can begin treatment for pneumonia, the better off you’ll be.
What Happens as Pneumonia Progresses
If you don’t seek treatment or medical care for pneumonia, your health can worsen. And the condition can become very, very dangerous.
Pneumonia can lead to serious complications. These can include:
- Bacteremia, which is when bacteria enters the bloodstream. It can spread infection to your organs and cause septic shock.
- Lung abscesses, which occurs when pus develops in lung cavities.
- Pleural disorders, which are disorders that affect lung tissue and tissue inside your chest cavity.
- Kidney failure.
- Respiratory failure.
Even if you seek treatment for pneumonia you may experience complications. Some people might experience difficulty breathing in oxygen, which can require hospitalization and a breathing machine. Fluid may accumulate around the lungs. These changes can be dangerous, and they require medical care and attention.
Make sure to talk with your doctor if you’re worried about your health. Whether you’re unsure if you have pneumonia or you’re worried about your risk for developing pneumonia, you can see your doctor to take steps to protect your health.