Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a critical respiratory infection that directly hits upon the lungs. Our lungs are made up of small sacs called ‘alveoli ‘, which get filled with air when a healthy person inhales. When a person is suffering from pneumonia then these sacs got filled up with pus and fluid, causing cough, fever, chills, make breathing painful, and limits oxygen intake.
Types of Pneumonia
The main types of pneumonia are-:
- Bacterial Pneumonia
- Viral Pneumonia
- Mycoplasm Pneumonia
Causes of Pneumonia
If we talk about causes. So there are many germs that can cause pneumonia, but The most common are bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the air which we inhale. Often our body puts a stop to these germs from infecting our lungs. But sometimes these germs can conquer our immune system. There are almost 30 different causes of pneumonia. The main types are-:
Bacterial Pneumonia
It usually occurs when the body is weakened in some way.
Eg. Poor nutrition, old age, impaired immunity. It can be easy for bacteria to be able to work their way into the lungs.
Viral Pneumonia
It can be caused by various viruses, including Flu (influenza), rhinovirus (common cold) You can get bacterial pneumonia if you have viral pneumonia.
Mycoplasma Pneumonia
This pneumonia shows somewhat different symptoms and physical signs and it is said to be ‘atypical‘ pneumonia. It is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma Pneumoniae. It causes mild, widespread that affect all age group
Symptoms Of Pneumonia
- Coughing that may produce phlegm (mucus)
- Fever
- Sweating or chills
- Chest pain
- Loss of appetite
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
Prevention Of Pneumonia
- Get the flu vaccine each year
People may get the bacterial pneumonia after a case of flu.
- Get the pneumococcal vaccine
It prevent pneumonia caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
- Practice good hygiene
Wash your hands frequently with soap, water, or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Never smoke
Do not smoke as it damages your lungs and makes it difficult for your body to defend itself from germs and disease.
- Practice healthy lifestyle
Eat balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables.
- Avoid sick people
Stay away from sick people, as there can be high chance of getting the diseases.
Treatment For Pneumonia
The treatment of pneumonia depends upon the type of pneumonia and the stage of pneumonia.
- Oral antibiotics can treat many cases of bacterial pneumonia.
- On viruses, antibiotics don’t work. Your doctor may prescribe an antiviral. However many cases of viral can be clear with home-care.
- OTC medication to relieve your pain and fever include-: Aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen.
- If your symptoms are severe you need to be hospitalized.