Pneumonia is a serious infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli)
The alveoli may fill with fluid or pus, causing symptoms like coughing, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening, particularly for infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Types of Pneumonia
- Based on Cause:
- Bacterial Pneumonia: Most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Other bacteria include Haemophilus influenzae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
- Viral Pneumonia: Caused by viruses like influenza, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), or SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).
- Fungal Pneumonia: Common in immunocompromised individuals, caused by fungi like Pneumocystis jirovecii or Histoplasma capsulatum.
- Based on Location:
- Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP): Acquired outside healthcare settings.
- Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (HAP): Acquired during hospital stays, often more resistant to antibiotics.
- Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP): Occurs in patients on mechanical ventilation.
- Other Types:
- Aspiration Pneumonia: Caused by inhaling food, liquid, or vomit into the lungs.
- Atypical Pneumonia: Often caused by less common organisms like Mycoplasma or Legionella.
Symptoms
Common Symptoms:
- Persistent cough (with green, yellow, or bloody mucus)
- Fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing
- Fatigue and weakness
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Loss of appetite
Severe Symptoms:
- Bluish tint to lips or fingertips (cyanosis)
- High fever with confusion or delirium (especially in elderly individuals)
- Severe difficulty breathing or wheezing
