Pneumonia is a lung infection where the air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid or pus, making it hard to breathe. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or inhaled particles. The infection can range from mild to severe and can sometimes be life-threatening.
Symptoms and causes
Pneumonia symptoms may appear quickly or over a few days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms include coughing (sometimes with phlegm), fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and a rapid heartbeat. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, viruses like the flu, and fungi found in the environment. In some cases, breathing in food or liquids can also lead to pneumonia.
The dangers of pneumonia:
Pneumonia can lead to severe complications, particularly in high-risk individuals. In some cases, the infection may cause respiratory failure, where the lungs cannot provide enough oxygen. Pneumonia can also lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the infection spreads into the bloodstream. Fluid buildup around the lungs (pleural effusion) or lung abscesses (pockets of pus) may also occur.
Are you vulnerable?
Certain groups are more likely to get pneumonia. Older adults, especially those aged 65 and above, are at higher risk, with the chances increasing as they age. Children under 5 are also more vulnerable, particularly infants. People with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system, are also at greater risk of developing pneumonia.
Preventing pneumonia:
- Vaccination: Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to prevent pneumonia. The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccines for older adults and young children. Vaccines for the flu and COVID-19 also help reduce the risk, as these viruses can lead to pneumonia.
- Hand hygiene: Washing your hands regularly with soap and water, or using hand sanitiser, helps prevent the spread of germs that cause pneumonia. This is especially important during cold and flu season when respiratory infections are more common.
- Quit smoking: Smoking weakens your lungs and makes you more vulnerable to infections like pneumonia. Quitting smoking greatly reduces your risk. If you don’t smoke, avoiding secondhand smoke can also protect your lungs.
- Boost your immunity: A strong immune system helps fight off infections. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can keep your immune system in good shape and lower your risk of pneumonia.
- Limit alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol weakens your body’s ability to fight infections and increases the risk of pneumonia. Limiting your alcohol intake can help lower your chances of getting the infection.
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