Pneumonia is lung inflammation. It is one of the leading causes of death in the United
States. Pneumonia can develop when the lungs are infected by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or
toxins, causing inflammation. Certain people are at a greater risk for pneumonia
than others. They include:
Elderly people, because the body's ability
to fight off disease lessens with age
People who are hospitalized for other
conditions
Individuals with suppressed cough reflex
following a stroke
Smokers, because tobacco smoke paralyzes
the tiny hairs in the lungs that help to expel germ-ridden mucus from the lungs
People who suffer from malnutrition,
alcoholism, or viral infections
Anyone with a recent respiratory infection
People with emphysema or chronic bronchitis
People with sickle cell anemia
People getting radiation treatments or
chemotherapy, or people taking any medications which wear down the immune system.
(Example: corticosteroids)
People with HIV/AIDS
Signs and Symptoms
Pneumonia symptoms may include:
Chest pain when breathing in
Fever and chills
Coughing, usually with bloody, dark yellow,
or rust-colored sputum
Difficulty in breathing, rapid breathing
General fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting
Bluish lips and fingertips
Treatment, Care, and Prevention
Treatment for pneumonia will depend on its type (viral, bacterial or
chemical, for example) and location. Blood tests, X-rays, and sputum analysis can help
identify these. Treatment includes:
Getting plenty of bed rest
Using a "cool-mist" humidifier in
the room or rooms in which you spend most of your time
Drinking plenty of fluids
Taking an over-the-counter medicine for
pain and/or fever. {Note: See "Pain relievers" in Your Home Pharmacy.}
Taking any medications your doctor
prescribes: antibiotics to treat bacterial pneumonia or to fight a secondary bacterial
infection; antiviral medicines if indicated.
Nose drops, sprays, or oral decongestants
to treat congestion in the upper respiratory tract
Cough medicines as needed: a cough
suppressant for a dry, nonproductive cough; an expectorant type for a mucus-producing
cough
Removing fluid from the lungs by suction,
anti-inflammatory medications, and oxygen therapy may be used for some pneumonias such as
ones caused by chemical irritants
Getting vaccines for influenza and
pneumonia. They are recommended for persons aged 65 and older and for some persons younger
than 65 who have certain medical conditions. Ask your doctor about them. (See Immunization Schedule.)
Not smoking
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 1999 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/99