Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can harm respiratory function and impact long-term health. When the lungs become inflamed, air sacs fill with fluid or pus, making it hard for oxygen to enter the bloodstream and for carbon dioxide to be expelled. This can lead to symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
In most cases, pneumonia can be treated without significant complications, says Dr Praveen Kumar B S, Consultant Pulmonologist at Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur. “However, in high-risk groups, serious immediate and long-term complications affecting respiratory function and overall health may arise. These complications may stem from the pneumonia itself or as side effects of the medications used to treat it,” he says.
Here's how pneumonia impacts respiratory function and long-term health, according to Dr Kumar:
Reduces lung capacity: Inflammation of the airways and fluid accumulation in the alveoli significantly compromise lung function, leading to reduced lung capacity. Patients may experience shortness of breath, decreased exercise tolerance, and fatigue. In severe cases, respiratory failure may occur, requiring mechanical ventilation.
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Causes airway resistance: Pneumonia also increases airway resistance due to excessive mucus production, obstructing airflow. This can exacerbate pre-existing respiratory disorders, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), worsening respiratory health. Long-term, this may increase reliance on bronchodilators or other medications.
Lung scarring and fibrosis: During recovery from severe pneumonia, structural changes such as scarring or pulmonary fibrosis may occur. These changes can sometimes be irreversible, resulting in diminished lung function and increased stiffness. People with lung fibrosis may experience chronic symptoms, such as a persistent cough and progressive shortness of breath, significantly impacting their quality of life.
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Increases risk of recurrent respiratory infections: The risk of recurrent respiratory infections is a common complication for those who have had pneumonia, especially in those with compromised immune systems, the elderly, and the ones with underlying health conditions. Each subsequent infection can further compromise lung function, leading to a progressive decline in respiratory health.
Exacerbates pre-existing conditions: Pneumonia can significantly worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. In asthma patients, a pneumonia infection can trigger severe exacerbations, requiring increased medication and frequent hospital visits.
Systemic effects: The inflammatory response triggered by pneumonia can have widespread implications, including cardiovascular stress and complications in other organ systems. Inadequate oxygen supply due to compromised lung function can lead to organ damage and long-term health issues, complicating recovery.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your health specialist for more information.
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