• Home
• >
• Health Articles
• >
• Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that affects one or both lungs, leading to air sacs or alveoli inflammation. This inflammation results in the alveoli filling with fluid or pus and impairs normal breathing and oxygen exchange. Pneumonia can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and its severity depends on factors such as the patient’s age and overall health.

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection where the alveoli in the lungs become inflamed and filled with fluid or pus. This condition disrupts normal lung function and oxygen exchange. The severity of pneumonia can vary from mild to severe, influenced by the pathogen responsible for the infection and the patient’s general health status.

Types of Pneumonia

1. Bacterial Pneumonia

Predominantly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, this form of pneumonia is common in adults and can develop either on its own or following a viral infection like the flu.

2. Viral Pneumonia

This type is caused by viruses such as the influenza virus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is also a significant cause of viral pneumonia.

3. Fungal Pneumonia

Fungal infections can cause pneumonia, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Pathogens such as Pneumocystis jirovecii or fungi from specific regions can be responsible for fungal pneumonia.

 

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Symptoms of pneumonia can vary in severity and should be differentiated from cold symptoms. The symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Chest Pain

Pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.

• Chills and Fever

Elevated body temperature is common.

• Cough

Often with mucus production.

• Shortness of Breath

Difficulty or rapid breathing.

• Low Oxygen Levels

Assessed using a pulse oximeter.

Other symptoms can include headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In certain populations, such as the elderly or infants, symptoms may be atypical. For instance, older adults might exhibit confusion or weakness rather than fever, while infants may show signs like rapid breathing or a bluish tint to the skin.

 

Causes and Risk Factors

Pneumonia arises from various pathogens:

• Bacterial Causes

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a frequent cause, with other bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Legionella pneumophila leading to atypical forms.

• Viral Causes

Viruses such as influenza and rhinovirus are common causes in adults, while RSV is prevalent in young children. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 is a notable cause of viral pneumonia.

• Fungal Causes

Pneumocystis jirovecii and other fungi, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, can cause fungal pneumonia.

• Other Factors:

Several factors can increase the risk of developing pneumonia:

– Age

Infants and older adults are at higher risk due to immune system vulnerabilities.

– Environmental Factors

Crowded living conditions and exposure to pollutants can increase risk.

– Lifestyle Choices

Smoking and excessive alcohol use can impair respiratory function and immune response.

– Medical Conditions

Chronic diseases, conditions affecting swallowing or coughing, and weakened immune systems increase pneumonia risk.

 

Diagnosis

Diagnosing pneumonia involves assessing medical history, conducting a physical exam, and performing diagnostic tests:

• Medical History and Physical Exam

Providers review symptoms and risk factors and perform a physical examination, including listening to lung sounds.

• Diagnostic Tests

– Chest X-ray

The X-ray detects lung inflammation and fluid accumulation.

– Blood Tests

Evaluate immune response and infection indicators (White Blood Cell count (one of the Complete Blood Count test parameters – CBC) and C-reactive protein test (CRP).

– Pulse Oximetry

Measures blood oxygen levels.

– Sputum Test

Analyzes mucus (sputum test) to identify the pathogen.

– CT Scan

Provides detailed imaging of lung involvement and complications.

– Bronchoscopy

Allows for direct airway examination and sampling.

 

Treatment

Treating pneumonia is tailored to the infection’s severity and type:

• At-Home Management

Mild pneumonia may be treated with antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral or antifungal medications, and other remedies according to the doctor’s prescription. Adhering to the prescribed treatment is crucial for effective recovery.

• Hospital Management

Severe pneumonia may require intravenous antibiotics, fluids, and oxygen therapy. In critical cases, mechanical ventilation or surgery might be necessary.

Prevention

Preventive strategies include vaccination against influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, maintaining good hygiene, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. For individuals at higher risk, avoiding pathogen exposure and managing underlying health conditions are essential for reducing pneumonia risk.

In summary, pneumonia is a serious infection with various causes and symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital for managing the condition effectively and improving recovery outcomes. Understanding pneumonia’s causes, recognizing symptoms, and following treatment guidelines can significantly enhance patient outcomes and minimize complications.