Bacterial Pneumonia Symptoms In Adults

Organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites are known to be the responsible for causing the condition known as pneumonia. And today we are speaking of bacterial pneumonia, one, that is caused by bacteria. The condition refers to a state where the lungs get inflamed as a result of infection, which in this case, is a bacterial one. This illness is common in people over the age of 65, and those who are suffering from some underlying medical condition thus, have a compromised immune system. Everyday, the body is exposed to pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. However, the immune system has the ability to ward off these agents with the help of cough, and the friendly microorganisms already present in the body. But in people, having a compromised immune system, these agents can easily make their way into the lungs and give rise to infection. And his infection causes lung inflammation, which in medical terms, is known as pneumonia.

What Causes Bacterial Pneumonia and What are Its Symptoms?

Bacterial pneumonia has bacteria as its cause. The most common one is Streptococcus pneumoniae. Other bacteria that can also cause the same include Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Chlamydia trachomatis and Legionella pneumophila.

The symptoms of bacterial pneumonia tend to mimic those that indicate influenza. This is why, most people fail to realize that they might be having a serious condition. Also people who are considered most vulnerable to this condition; meaning those who are over 65 years of age, and those with weak immune system, surprisingly show mild to moderate symptoms. On the other hand, people who are less susceptible to develop this illness, may exhibit greater number of symptoms, which may be severe, as well. The early symptoms of this infection include fever (that may go over 38.9 degrees C), chills and sweating. Cough may be persistent, and may be accompanied by shortness of breath and chest pain. Other symptoms could be sweating, headache, pain in the muscles in multiple areas of the body, and fatigue. These symptoms may vary from person to person depending upon the type of underlying condition that the patient might be suffering from.

Complications

According to most cases dealt by different doctors, bacterial pneumonia is more severe than a viral one. The possible complications of the condition may include bacteremia (defined as presence of bacteria in the blood), the lungs may get infected and fluid may accumulate around it, lung abscess, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Bacterial pneumonia is a contagious infection. Its causal pathogen can easily travel with the help of cough, sneeze or phlegm, and infect others.

Treatment Plan

Due to obvious reasons, administration of antibiotics is the first line of treatment for this type of pneumonia. Completion of the course of the treatment is extremely essential, even if the patient notices improvements in his symptoms. Bacterial pneumonia does not take time to recur, and this is why it is imperative to complete the full course of medication. Also, stopping antibiotics too soon, may give rise to new strains of bacteria that may be resistant to antibiotics. Usually, the recovery time is about 1-2 weeks. However, this might change depending on the person's age, health and how serious is the condition.

In conjunction with medication, following a few self-care measures at home, help manage and improving the bacterial pneumonia symptoms. These include drinking plenty of fluid, getting rest, staying at home until complete recovery, and going for regular follow-ups with the doctor.