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Read MorePneumonia is a lung infection that can affect anyone at any age. Rest assured, Inspira can help you navigate this diagnosis and explore your treatment options.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection characterized by inflammation in the lungs' alveoli or air sacs, often caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. When these pathogens invade the lungs, your immune response leads to the accumulation of fluid and pus in the alveoli, making it difficult to breathe. Pneumonia can range from mild to severe and can affect people of all ages. It can be dangerous for infants, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
There are several types of pneumonia, including:
- Community-acquired pneumonia: This is the most common type of pneumonia and is acquired outside of a health care setting.
- Hospital-acquired pneumonia: This occurs during a hospital stay and is typically more severe because the bacteria causing it may be more resistant to antibiotics.
- Viral pneumonia: This is caused by viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19.
- Bacterial pneumonia: This type is caused by various bacteria, with Streptococcus pneumoniae being the most common culprit.
- Fungal pneumonia: This is less common and usually affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy.
Pneumonia Symptoms
Pneumonia often announces its presence through a range of symptoms that may vary from person to person. Symptoms may include:
- Fever and Chills
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Nausea or vomiting
- Chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing
How is Pneumonia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pneumonia involves a medical history assessment, physical examination and diagnostic tests. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, recent illnesses and possible exposure to infectious agents. Next, your doctor will listen to your lungs for abnormal sounds, check your breathing rate and assess your overall condition. They may recommend a chest X-ray to identify areas of inflammation, a blood test to check for signs of infection or a sputum culture to help guide antibiotic treatment if bacterial pneumonia is suspected. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a CT scan of the chest or a bronchoscopy.
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Pneumonia Treatment Options
Medication
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed for bacterial pneumonia. They target the specific bacteria causing the infection. In cases of viral pneumonia, antiviral drugs may combat the virus directly, helping reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Supportive Care
Rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications, as recommended by your doctor, can help alleviate symptoms like fever and cough and promote a speedier recovery.
Our Approach to Pneumonia Care
We take a comprehensive approach to pneumonia care by integrating social workers and our experienced pharmacy team to ensure personalized, effective treatment. Our dedicated team helps you navigate medications and supports you through every step of recovery—from hospitalization to rehabilitation.
Our holistic care extends beyond medical treatment to follow-up support. Inspira GO! offers free non-emergent transportation for patients with access barriers, ensuring you attend follow-up appointments and emphasize rehabilitation, promoting long-term respiratory health. We strive to enhance your quality of life with compassionate, comprehensive care.
