Pneumonia Shot

Pneumonia is a serious condition which is characterized by infection of the lungs and the congestion which is caused by various viruses and bacteria. Old people who are above sixty five years of age and young children are more prone to this dreadful disease. People who have the habit of consuming alcohol heavily and have suffered from diseases and disorders of the heart and the lungs are also at risk of contracting pneumonia. People who are diabetic, are HIV positive, have had kidney failure, have a damaged spleen and/or have a malfunctioning immune system also need to take preventive measures against pneumonia. Given below are the common symptoms of bacterial pneumonia.

Symptoms of Bacterial Pneumonia

Here is a list of the most common symptoms which are experienced by people suffering from pneumonia:

• A very high fever
• Fast beating of heart
• Frequent pain in the chest
• Frequent coughing
• Breathing problems
• Reduced energy in the body
• Chills
• Shivering
• Chattering of teeth

Pneumonia Shot

These shots have been found to be very effective in bringing the symptoms of pneumonia under control and saving the life of the patients. The shot is important because it assists in combating the disease causing germs. Apart from pneumonia, these shots are found to be effective in preventing twenty three streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, meningitis and the bacteremia. The use of antibiotics to fight against pneumonia has been age-old. However, as pneumonia is resistant to antibiotics like penicillin, these shots have become a necessity. The shot is administered in the upper arm and in case of most of the patients, a single shot is sufficient to bring their health back to normal. However, if the symptoms are intense, your doctors might suggest that you take a second shot a few years later.

Side Effects of the Pneumonia Shot

Though the shots have been declared safe by most doctors, the side effects can be seen in some selective cases. Pain, swelling or redness can be some of the side effects of these shots. In many cases, these side effects appear immediately after the vaccine has been administered and may disappear after a period of time. Few people might also experience a sore lump at the place where the vaccine was given. There are people who complain of pain or aches in various joints of their body. In very few cases, the patients experience a very high fever which needs immediate medical attention and subsequent treatment. Pain in the muscles of the body can also be observed in some cases.

Allergic reactions to the shot have also been observed in some cases. A person who has an allergic reaction to the pneumonia shot might experience hives and swelling in mouth and the face. Swelling in the throat is another side effect that may be experienced. Dizziness, tachycardia, and changes in behavior are some other side effects. There have been cases in which people have had headaches, experienced a drop in blood pressure levels and lost consciousness.

A person who has received a pneumonia shot should ensure that he or she consumes a sufficient quantity of liquids. With proper rest, and by ensuring that you follow the instructions of the doctor, you are sure to recover from the disease in no time.