Pneumonia
Pneumonia, or lung inflammation, is a condition caused by infection or inflammation of the lungs. It can result from various pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi, or from exposure to chemicals. This disease can affect people of all ages, but it is more commonly found in young children under 5 years old, the elderly, and individuals with underlying conditions such as heart disease, chronic lung disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems.
Causes
Most cases are caused by infections, particularly bacterial infections. Pneumonia can spread through inhalation of airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, or through sharing utensils or personal items like drinking glasses or handkerchiefs. Symptoms may develop within 1-3 days after exposure. A small number of cases are caused by chemical exposure, such as ammonia or nitrogen dioxide.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
Some patients may initially experience runny nose, sneezing, or nasal congestion.
Others may develop high fever and chills.
Shortness of breath is common.
Chest pain may occur, often localized to the inflamed area.
Cough is a key symptom-initially dry, later producing thick sputum.
Diagnosis
If a patient presents with high fever, chills, productive cough (yellow or green sputum), and difficulty breathing, a doctor may suspect pneumonia and perform further tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC), which may show elevated white blood cells
- Sputum analysis and culture to identify the causative organism
- Blood culture (results may take 3-4 days)
- Chest X-ray to determine the location of infection
Treatment
In children, pneumonia is often caused by viruses and may not require hospitalization. Care includes encouraging fluid intake, monitoring temperature, and taking prescribed medications strictly. Over-the-counter cough medicines should be avoided. Parents should monitor for signs such as bluish lips or nails and seek medical care immediately if these occur.
If caused by bacteria or if symptoms are severe (high fever, significant breathing difficulty, persistent cough), hospitalization may be required. Treatment may include oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and intravenous fluids.
Complications
- Pleural effusion: Fluid accumulation in the pleural space, which may resolve on its own or require drainage if severe
- Empyema: Pus in the pleural space, often with high fever and breathing difficulty
- Pneumothorax: Air leakage into the chest cavity, causing chest tightness and shortness of breath
- Pericarditis and meningitis (rare)
- Heart failure, especially in patients with pre-existing heart disease
Prevention
Vaccination can help prevent certain types of pneumonia, such as those caused by Haemophilus influenzae, pertussis, and pneumococcal bacteria. Influenza vaccination is also recommended.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals and crowded places.
Those who are ill should wear a mask to prevent spreading the infection to others.
source : Muangloei Ram Hospital
**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team
Independent Writer
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