Symptoms of Pneumonia in Adults

Pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites are known to be responsible for causing the condition known as pneumonia. It is simply defined as the inflammation of lungs. This condition can affect people of all ages, and even those who are otherwise healthy. However, it becomes more concerning with those who are already suffering from a chronic illness or are older than 65. Also, it is usually a complication that arises from other condition such as flu. Some people may be hit with a mild form of it, while for some, it may become life-threatening.

What Symptoms are Triggered by Pneumonia?

The symptoms do not remain the same for everyone. They depend upon the causal organism and on any underlying medical condition that the patient might be suffering from. Symptoms that occur in most cases include fever, coughing, breathing difficulty and perspiration. These symptoms may be accompanied by shaking chills, headache, muscle pain in different parts of the body, and fatigue. Patients might also have a chest pain, which fluctuates while breathing. It is strange to know that people who are more vulnerable to contract this infection, usually exhibit milder symptoms, than those who aren't. A lasting fever of 102 F (38.9 C) or higher, accompanies the above symptoms of pneumonia which seem to persist for long, must be brought to the notice of a doctor. This is more important in case of the elderly.

Treatment

The type of pneumonia and intensity of the symptoms, determine the course of the treatment. For instance, if the infection has been caused by a bacterium, then the patient would be put on antibiotics. The entire course of the pneumonia treatment must be followed lest a bacterial infection has a high tendency to recur, and become resistant to antibiotics. Also, stopping the medication too soon may give rise to strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. While, for viral pneumonia, doctors usually recommend to take a lot of rest and drink plenty of fluids. The virus would simply run its course, before it gets resolved on its own. A mycoplasma pneumonia is also treated with the help of antibiotics, and when it comes to fungal infection, antifungal medication are included in the treatment procedure.

At home, the patient must give himself plenty of rest, as his body fights off the infection. The patient must stay at home until the symptoms subside. This is to prevent the condition from getting aggravated and spreading to others. Keeping the body hydrated helps in making the mucus in the lungs loose. In order to do that, plenty of fluids must be included in the diet, including water. Regular follow-ups are also required, so that the condition is monitored.

Pneumonia vaccination is important, and so is the habit of washing hands before eating and after visiting the washroom. Shunning smoking reduces the risk of developing pneumonia by a great extent, and so does inculcating a healthy diet and regular exercises. Losing weight also helps. And another important aspect is about preventing the infection from spreading to others, by wearing a mask or using a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing.