CONDITIONS
Pulmonology
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes the air sacks, or alveoli, to fill up with fluid or pus. This infection can be caused by fungi, bacteria or viruses and affect either one or both lungs at a time. Pneumonia can be serious for people with weakened immune systems, particularly the elderly or very young children under the age of two. If left untreated, pneumonia can lead to further health complications that may affect your breathing. The condition can also lead to bacteria entering your bloodstream or the formation of an abscess in your lung.
What causes pneumonia?
Pneumonia is caused by bacteria, fungi and viruses present in the air. If these organisms enter your lungs when you breathe, an infection can set in. In some cases, pneumonia can also be contracted in health-care environments such as hospitals or clinics. The infection can also develop if food, drink or vomit enters your lungs when you accidentally inhale it.
What are the related symptoms?
Pneumonia affects your breathing and is generally characterised by chest pain, coughing, phlegm, shortness of breath, nausea, diarrhoea and fever. You might also experience mental confusion, low body temperature and fatigue, especially if you are over the age of 65.
How is pneumonia diagnosed
In order to diagnose pneumonia, your physician will need to access your symptoms and run several tests. This process will involve a physical examination before tests are issued. X-rays, scans and blood test will then be performed to confirm the diagnosis. A sample of fluid may also be taken from your lungs to test for pneumonia too.
How is pneumonia treated?
In mild cases, pneumonia can be treated with oral medications such as antibiotics, pain relievers and cough medicine. These work to kill the infection and help you recover from any related complications. Serious cases of pneumonia, however, require hospitalisation to treat complications such as low blood pressure, kidney failure and severe shortness of breath. This is especially necessary for very young children or people older than 65.
