1. What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that causes the air sacs in your lungs to become inflamed. The air sacs may also fill with fluid or pus. A bacteria, virus, or fungus may lead to a lung infection.

While the seriousness of pneumonia can vary from mild to severe, young children and the elderly are especially at risk and should seek care immediately if pneumonia is suspected. Types of pneumonia include:

Community-acquired pneumonia

Community-acquired pneumonia is the most common, and it’s usually caused by an organism from the air that you breathe in. While your body does its best to protect you from getting sick, some organisms can slip through your defenses and cause illness.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia

If you’re admitted to a hospital, you may develop what’s called hospital-acquired pneumonia. Hospitals are a source of germs, and as such, you may have a greater chance of coming in contact with germs. Furthermore, if you’re sick, your body may have a more difficult time fighting them off.

Aspiration pneumonia

Aspiration pneumonia is a type of lung infection that develops if food, drinks, saliva, or vomit accidentally enters your lungs. You may be at risk of developing aspiration pneumonia if you have a swallowing disorder.

What types of symptoms would I experience with pneumonia?

Pneumonia symptoms are often mistaken for a cold or flu, which may delay a diagnosis. Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain when you cough
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
  
  

Older adults may also experience periods of confusion if they have pneumonia.

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

To confirm a diagnosis, your health care expert at A+ Total Care first conducts a thorough physical examination and reviews your symptoms and medical history. If pneumonia is suspected, you may need additional tests, such as:

• Blood test
• Chest X-ray
• Sputum test
  
  

Your health care expert may also place a pulse oximeter on your finger to measure the oxygen levels in your blood to help in the assessment. Pneumonia may prevent your blood from becoming fully oxygenated.

What treatments are available for pneumonia?

Treatment for pneumonia is aimed at clearing up your infection and relieving your symptoms. Your health care expert at A+ Total Care may prescribe:

• Antibiotics
• Cough medicine
• Medication to reduce pain and lower your fever
  
  

Your health care expert will also likely recommend that you get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help your lungs clear out the infection.

For expert pneumonia care, call A+ Total Care or schedule an appointment using the online booking button. The clinic is open seven days a week for your convenience, and walk-ins are always welcome.