What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that can be caused by various bacteria, viruses and fungi. It can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can be fatal.

It is an acute infection of the pulmonary parenchyma involving alveoli and interstitium. Some triggers, mostly a viral trigger produces a capillary endothelial injury leading to inflammation. This inflammation facilitates the growth of organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae causing pneumonia.

Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for pneumonia is crucial to prevent serious complications and even save lives. Here, we explore everything you need to know about pneumonia.

What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the type of organism causing the infection and the patient’s overall health.

1. Fever
2. Productive Cough: Reflex response to multiplication of the organisms
3. Breathing difficulty: some degree of dysponea
4. Duration: 2-3 days

However, some common symptoms include coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, fever and chills. In some cases, patients may also experience confusion, headaches and muscle aches.

It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you are in a high-risk group, such as the elderly, young children or people with weakened immune systems. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications.

What causes pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be caused by various bacteria, viruses and fungi. The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae, which accounts for up to 50% of all cases.

Other bacteria that can cause it include Haemophilus influenzae, Legionella pneumophila, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Viral pneumonia is usually caused by the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and adenovirus. Fungal pneumonia is less common and is usually caused by exposure to environmental fungi, such as Histoplasma capsulatum and Cryptococcus neoformans.

Organisms often involved are Pneumococcus H. influenza mycoplasma.

What are the Factors that Increases the Risk of Pneumonia?

Some factors can increase your risk of developing pneumonia. These include age (the elderly and young children are at a higher risk), smoking, chronic lung diseases (such as asthma and COPD), upper respiratory tract infection / recent influenza infection, weakened immune systems (due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy or organ transplantation) and exposure to environmental pollutants.

Age

Older adults and young children are more susceptible.

Weakened immune system

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer or organ transplants, are more susceptible to it.

Chronic illness

People with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, are more susceptible.

Smoking

Smokers are more susceptible to pneumonia, as smoking damages the lungs and weakens the immune system.

Exposure to pollutants

Exposure to pollutants, such as chemicals or dust, can increase a person’s risk of developing this disease.

What are the common sites and their causing organism in Pneumonia?

Site                             Organism

Alveolar → Streptococcus pneumoniae > H. influenza

Interstitial → viruses > Mycoplasma > Chlamydia

Combined involvement → Legionella

40% cases: cause unknown

20% cases: Tuberculosis

Types of pneumonia

Pneumonia can be categorized as community-acquired or hospital-acquired. Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is acquired outside of healthcare facilities and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is acquired during a hospital stay.

HAP is acquired in healthcare facilities like hospitals or dialysis centers.

HAP if contracted after 48 hrs during a hospital stay and is usually more severe than CAP.

Aspiration pneumonia is caused by inhaling food, liquids or vomit into the lungs. This type of pneumonia is more common in people with conditions that affect swallowing, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease.

“Walking pneumonia”, less severe form of pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae. These are asymptomatic patients or may have low-grade fever + dry cough + scanty sputum.

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

To diagnose pneumonia, your doctor will perform a physical exam and may order tests such as a chest X-ray, blood tests and a sputum test (to check for bacteria or fungi). If necessary, your doctor may also perform a CT scan or bronchoscopy (a procedure that involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into your lungs).

Diagnosing the disease usually involves a physical exam, medical history and various tests, including:

Chest X-ray

X-ray can help diagnose by showing abnormalities in the lungs.

Blood tests

Blood tests can detect the presence of bacteria or viruses in the blood, which can confirm it’s diagnosis.

Sputum test

Sputum test involves analyzing a sample of mucus or phlegm coughed up from the lungs to identify the organism causing the infection.

Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy involves inserting a tube with a camera into the lungs to examine the airways and collect a sample of tissue or fluid for analysis.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment options for pneumonia

Treatment for pneumonia depends on the type of organism causing the infection and the severity of the symptoms. Bacterial pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, while viral pneumonia may require antiviral medication. Fungal pneumonia may require antifungal medication.

In addition to medication, patients may also require supplemental oxygen therapy to help them breathe. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

How to prevent pneumonia?

Preventing pneumonia involves taking steps to reduce your risk of infection. Some ways to prevent it include getting vaccinated (for bacterial and the flu), washing your hands regularly, avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, and maintaining good overall health (including adequate nutrition and exercise).

If you are at a high risk of developing it, such as the elderly or people with weakened immune systems, your doctor may recommend additional preventive measures, such as receiving pneumococcal and flu vaccines.

Conclusion

Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that can be caused by various bacteria, viruses and fungi. Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for it is crucial to prevent serious complications and even save lives.

If you experience any symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Take steps to reduce your risk of infection, such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hand hygiene.

By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and those around you from this potentially life-threatening condition.