Viral Pneumonia Symptoms

Pneumonia which is a respiratory disease is characterized by inflammation of the lung parenchyma (excluding the bronchi) with congestion. Pneumonia caused by a viral infection usually does not raise any major concerns. However, it may sometimes become fatal for very old and young patients or for those who have a compromised immune system. The class of viruses which are known to cause viral pneumonia include influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and herpes or varicella virus. Even the virus which causes common cold (parainfluenza virus and adenoviruses) can also bring about the onset of pneumonia. Other than viruses, bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms are also responsible for causing pneumonia.

How To Determine A Viral Pneumonia

There aren't many symptoms of this infection in adults. Common ones that occur include sweating, low-grade fever (102 °F) or chills. There might be a general feeling of fatigue which is the most common of all symptoms of viral pneumonia. The affected person may also complain of muscle aches. There might be cough, accompanied with the production of sputum and difficulty in breathing may also be experienced. Breathing getting more rapid than normal is also one symptom. In children the symptoms are same as the ones which have been described above, except that they may cry more than usual and may be more irritable.

As far as the treatment goes, viral pneumonia has to simply run its course before it gets resolved by itself. So what is required by the patient is to take plenty of rest and increase his fluid intake. Apart from other fluids, water should be taken in ample quantity. This would keep the body from dehydrating and also help in loosening the mucus in the lungs. It is better for the patients to stay at home and take an off from their work. Any medication, if prescribed to prevent the development of a secondary bacterial pneumonia, must be taken for its entire course. It is also important to keep a regular follow-up with the doctor in order to ensure that the lungs have properly healed.

Prevention

Proper hygiene is the key to an effective prevention for pneumonia and all types of illnesses. As we all know, washing hands thoroughly before meals is a must for everyone. However, washing your hands isn't possible at all times and especially when you are out of home. So, carry an alcohol-based sanitizer with yourself which can come in handy whenever you feel the need. It is more effective in eliminating bacteria and virus which can cause disease.

Smokers have a higher tendency than others to develop pneumonia. The habit destroys the lung's natural defenses against respiratory diseases. So, the best way out is to quit smoking at the earliest.

Keeping the immune system strong takes you away from the vicinity of the effects and the causes of pneumonia and several other illnesses. Keep your diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and add to the efficiency of the diet by following a regular schedule of exercises.

It is vital to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease to others, especially to small kids, the elderly and people with weak immune system. As mentioned earlier, they are the ones who are more susceptible to pneumonia. It is also considered a wise habit to always use a handkerchief while sneezing or coughing, and even wearing a mask.