Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs. The disease is caused by infection, but may also be associated with inhalation of certain chemicals. Bacteria are the main causes of pneumonia in adults over 30 years.
Groups with high risk factors of pneumonia:
People with weakened immune systems have an increased risk of pneumonia.
– Elderly people;
– Smokers;
– Alcoholic persons;
– People suffering from other diseases such as influenza.
Knowing the preventive measures of lung diseases assumes both a healthy lifestyle and proper hygiene measures.
The main symptoms of pneumonia:
– Cough – In some cases the cough may be accompanied by a yellowish or green secretion, or even bleeding;
– Fever – Can get higher in more severe cases;
– Chills;
– Shortness of breath, especially when more effort is made, as if climbing stairs.
Additional symptoms that may be identified in pneumonia:
– Sharp pains, bites in the chest during deep breathing or coughing;
– Headaches;
– Excessive sweating and cold clammy skin;
– Lack of appetite;
– Low energy, fatigue;
– Confusion, particularly in the elderly people.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of pneumonia:
– Bacterial pneumonia is manifested by elevated body temperature, strong sweat, growth pulse. Lips and nails may have a bluish tinge due to low oxygen levels in the blood. The patient may experience confusion or delirium.
– Viral pneumonia may have the same symptoms as the flu: fever, cough, headache, muscle pain, weakness. Cough gradually worsens and can be accompanied by secretions. The patient may have blue lips.
The main prevention measures in pneumonia:
Proper hygiene is an essential factor. Your personal hygiene is not the only important thing, but also the hygiene of family and friends you come in contact with. Bacterial pneumonia can be transmitted by contact with others by infection with bacteria and viruses.
Quitting smoking decreases the risk of lung disease:
Consult a doctor at the first symptoms because the viral pneumonia can have the same symptoms as flu.