‘Pneumonia’, more or less we all have heard this word. The word originates from the Greek word ‘pneumon’ that means ‘lung’. And the English word ‘pneumonia’ means ‘inflammation in the lungs with congestion.’ The infection inflames the air sacs in either one lung or both. You get infected through viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
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Symptoms of Pneumonia:
The symptoms of includes
- Chest pain while breathing or coughing
- Fatigue and appetite loss
- Cough and phlegm or mucus
- Fever, chills, and sweating
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
Infants or newborns sometimes do not have any symptoms. Or they start vomiting, have a fever, and cough.
Types and Causes of Pneumonia:
Types of ailments are depending on the source or cause of infection. Several reasons divide the disease to:
- Bacterial
- Viral
- Fungal
- Walking pneumonia
- Aspiration pneumonia
Bacterial:
Bacterial infection is the main reason for inflammation. If the person near you sneezes or coughs, the bacteria-filled droplets spread in the air. And you get infected while breathing in the infected air. The most common type of infection is Pneumococcal pneumonia caused by Streptococcus Pneumoniae bacteria.
Other bacteria are
- Mycoplasma pneumonia
- Haemophilus influenza
- Ligeonella pneumophila
Viral:
The second major cause of infection is a virus. Respiratory viruses often cause the disease. The viruses are:
- Influenza
- Rhinovirus (Common Cold)
- Human Parainfluenza Virus Infection (HPIV)
- Human Metapneumovirus infection (HMPV)
- Measles
- Chickenpox
- COVID-19 Infection
However, viral is milder than a bacterial infection. And it improved within 1-3 weeks.
Fungal:
A fungus from soil or bird dropping causes the infection. And fungi vary according to the geographical area. The fungi are
- Pneumocystis jirovecii
- Cryptococcus species
- Histoplasmosis species
Walking Pneumonia:
You can continue your daily activity with it because it is mild. The infection disseminated in the crowd. This bacterial infection is also called Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Aspiration Pneumonia:
This type is infected when a person aspirates a foreign particle into his lungs. It happens when people eat or drink. A small particle of food or drink goes down in the ‘wrong pipe’ while swallowing it. ‘Wrong pipe’ means in lungs instead of the stomach.
Treatment of Pneumonia:
Treatment depends on how much you have infected. And what causes the infection. The doctor will diagnose and suggest treatment that prevents complications.If you get infected by bacteria doctor will suggest antibiotics. It is good to complete the recommended course even if you start feeling better after two days. If you stop taking medications, the symptoms will come back.
For viral infection, antibiotics will not help. Take lots of fluids and medicines to get rid of fever.
In severe cases of infection, your doctor may suggest you hospitalize. And you may need oxygen therapy or breathing treatment.
Summary:
No matter the type, any type of pneumonia will cure if you treat it right and follow routines. You need to take a rest. Take care of yourself until you get cured.
