Can pneumonia cause death?

Who's at risk?

Pneumonia can affect anyone. While most cases are manageable, there are some people who are at an increased risk for developing a severe or life-threatening infection. People that are at an increased risk for having a life-threatening pneumonia case include:

• children younger than 2 years old

• adults aged 65 and older

• people who are hospitalized, particularly if they’ve been placed on a ventilator

• individuals with a chronic condition such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or diabetes

• people with a weakened immune system

• Individuals who smoke cigarettes

Types of Pneumonia That Carry a Higher Risk

Often, the cause of your pneumonia can determine the severity of the infection. For instance, viral pneumonia is typically a milder disease and its symptoms occur gradually.

On other hand, bacterial pneumonias are often more severe. The symptoms can either develop gradually or suddenly and can affect one or more lobes of the lung. And when multiple lobes of the lungs are affected, the person typically requires hospitalization.

In case of fungal pneumonia, this type is typically more common in people with a weakened immune system and these infections can be very serious.

Preventing Life-Threatening Pneumonia

You can help to prevent serious or life-threatening pneumonia infection by doing the following:

• Get vaccinated against viruses and bacteria like the flu and pneumococcus that cause pneumonia.

• Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently

• Avoid secondhand smoke to keep germs at bay.

• Sleep well and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Monitor your health and be aware of any worrying symptoms, particularly if you have any risk factors.

If you experience rapid breathing (more than 30 breaths per minute), sharp chest pain that worsens when you cough or breathe in, or severe confusion alongside a cough and fever, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis with a chest X-ray or CT scan and appropriate treatment with antibiotics (for bacteria), antivirals (for viruses), or antifungal medications (for fungus) prevents complications.