Pneumonia Symptoms

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both of your lungs. Air sacs in the lungs fill up with pus or fluid, causing a wide array of unpleasant symptoms. 

Viruses, bacteria, and fungi can all contribute to developing pneumonia. Its symptoms range in severity from mild to severe and even life-threatening. You might develop pneumonia after a battle with a cold, flu, or COVID-19.

What are pneumonia symptoms?

Common signs and symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Confusion
• Fever
• Sweats
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

See your doctor if you experience problems breathing, chest pain, a high or long-lasting fever, a persistent cough, or coughing up pus. 

What are possible pneumonia complications?

Untreated pneumonia can cause complications for high-risk groups. Examples include breathing difficulty, fluid buildup in the lungs, bacteria in your bloodstream, and pus forming in lung cavities. Getting treated for pneumonia early can reduce your risk of complications. 

What are the risk factors for pneumonia?

Anyone can develop pneumonia, but certain factors can increase your risk of getting it. Examples include being age 65 or older, being age two or younger, smoking, hospitalization, having a weak immune system, and having an underlying medical problem. If you have ongoing lung issues or heart failure, pneumonia can become a life-threatening condition. 

How does my doctor diagnose pneumonia?

To find out if you have pneumonia and which type of germ is causing it, your IAM Healthy provider reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and may recommend undergoing blood tests, chest X-rays, cough sputum testing, or tests that measure the oxygen levels in your blood. 

What are common pneumonia treatments?

Common pneumonia treatments your IAM Healthy provider may recommend include:

Home remedies

Home remedies that help you recover from pneumonia include rest, not smoking, and drinking plenty of fluids. 

Medications

Your provider may recommend antibiotics, cough medicine, an inhaler, fever-reducing medicines, or pain-relieving medications to alleviate symptoms of pneumonia while you recover.  

Hospitalization

If you have a severe case of pneumonia, your IAM Healthy specialist may recommend medical intervention at a hospital to reduce your risk of life-threatening complications.

If you struggle with pneumonia symptoms and want relief, call the IAM Healthy office today or schedule an appointment online.