Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It inflames the air sacs (alveoli), filling them with fluid or pus, making breathing difficult. Viral and bacterial pneumonia are contagious, spreading through coughs, sneezes, or touching contaminated surfaces. Fungal pneumonia, however, comes from the environment and isn’t spread from person to person.

What are some misconceptions associated with pneumonia?

• Cold weather or air conditioning doesn’t cause pneumonia—though dirty AC filters can harbor germs.
• Only elderly people get it? Nope! Pneumonia can affect anyone, though some groups are at higher risk.

What are the types of pneumonia?

• Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP): Caught outside hospitals.
• Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP): Picked up during hospital stays, often more severe.
• Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP): Affects people on ventilators.  Aspiration pneumonia: Caused by inhaling food, drinks, or saliva.

What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

• Cough (with phlegm)
• Fever, chills, sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Fatigue, loss of appetite
• Headaches, nausea

What are the risk factors for getting pneumonia?

• Infants & elderly
• People with chronic illnesses (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
• Smokers & heavy drinkers
• Hospitalized patients
• Those with weak immune systems

How is pneumonia treated?

• Get vaccinated (pneumococcal & flu shots)
• Quit smoking & maintain hygiene
• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, antivirals for viral cases