Symptoms of Pneumonia in the Elderly

Everyday we get exposed to millions of viruses and bacteria. But thanks to our immune system, these pathogens do not get access into the body so easily. Simple responses such as cough, and the friendly bacterial population in our body, stop such harmful organisms from invading our airways and lungs. However, factors such as age, and medical condition tends to lower the strength of the immune system thus, causing conditions such as pneumonia. It is referred to, as the inflammation of the lungs, that is usually a repercussion of a bacterial or a viral infection. In some cases, fungi can also cause the same. This ailment tends to be more common in people over the age of 65, and in those with compromised immune system due to some kind of underlying chronic medical condition.

What May Indicate the Onset of Pneumonia in the Elderly?

The nature of the symptoms depend on the type of pathogen that has caused the condition. Also, if the patient is already suffering from some underlying condition, even then the symptoms may be different from usual. The general symptoms may indicate the onset of pneumonia may include:

• Fever and cough (early symptoms; mimic those of flu)
• Shortness of breath
• Excessive perspiration
• One important symptom is a pain that originates or fluctuates in the chest every time the person breaths
• Body ache or muscle pain
• Fatigue, lethargy
• Shaking chills
• Headache

Furthermore, it is a common belief that people who tend to be more susceptible to develop a condition, exhibit the worst symptoms. This idea may be somehow opposite when pneumonia affects the elderly. Older people, and those with weak immune system, as mentioned, show milder and fewer symptoms than those who are less vulnerable. One classic example is that of a fever. Pneumonia is often characterized by a high fever. However, the elderly show a temperature that is lower than normal, when affected by pneumonia.

Treatment Options for of Pneumonia

The treatment treats the underlying cause of pneumonia. If a bacterial infection has been determined as the cause, then antibiotics are administered. It is imperative to complete the entire course of the medication, as prescribed by the doctor. Otherwise, it may cause a recurrence of the infection, and worse, it might create such bacteria strains that are resistant to these drugs.

When it comes to viral infection, antibiotics are of no help. The condition may either be caused by the influenza (flu) virus or the chickenpox (varicella) virus. For the flu virus, there has been no development of any anti-viral. Drinking plenty of fluid and rest are recommended. For other virus, patients may avail anti-viral drugs. For fungal infection, which is usually rare, antifungal medication is also prescribed.

For pneumonia treatment at home, patients must drink plenty of fluids including water. Staying at home until the symptoms disappear, is a wise idea. And, as mentioned, get plenty of rest. To reduce the symptoms, doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications to reduce fever, body aches and pains.

In most cases, this condition is a short-term, treatable illness. However, worsening symptoms of pneumonia can become life-threatening for an elderly patient. This is due to the possible complications which may arise from the condition, when left untreated. These may include bacteremia, lung abscess, infection around the lungs, and accumulation of fluid.