Pneumonia can be caused by various infectious agents:
Bacterial: Common bacterial causes include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Staphylococcus aureus.
Viral: Viruses such as influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and coronavirus can cause viral pneumonia.
Fungal: Fungal infections such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) can occur in immunocompromised individuals.
Clinical Evaluation
Symptoms: Assessment of symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and sputum production (yellow-green or rust-colored).
Physical Examination: Examination of the lungs for abnormal breath sounds and signs of infection (e.g., increased respiratory rate, decreased oxygen saturation).
Diagnostic Tests: Chest X-ray to visualize lung abnormalities, blood tests to identify the causative agent (e.g., complete blood count, cultures), and sometimes sputum culture or PCR tests for specific pathogens.
Cough, often with phlegm (yellow, green, or bloody).
Fever, which may be mild or high.
Shaking chills.
Shortness of breath, which may only occur when you climb stairs.
Sweating.
Chest pain that worsens when you breathe deeply (pleurisy).
Fast heartbeat.
Feeling very tired or weak.
Nausea and vomiting.
Diarrhea.
Treatment for pneumonia depends on the underlying cause and severity:
Antibiotics: If bacterial pneumonia is suspected or confirmed, antibiotics are prescribed based on the causative agent and sensitivity.
Antiviral Medications: For viral pneumonia, antiviral medications may be used in specific cases, such as influenza or COVID-19 pneumonia.
Supportive Care: Rest, adequate hydration, and over-the-counter medications (e.g., acetaminophen) to relieve fever and pain.
Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen may be necessary for patients with severe pneumonia and low oxygen levels.
Hospitalization: Severe cases, especially in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, may require hospitalization for intensive care and monitoring.