Pneumonia: Symptoms and Causes

Pneumonia is a lung infection, usually caused by bacteria and viruses, which results in inflammation of air sacs leading to breathing difficulties. Did you know viral and bacterial pneumonia are contagious and spread through airborne droplets or when you come in contact with contaminated surfaces? This disease can be dangerous for particular demographics like children, elderly individuals, and those with weaker immune systems. Read on to understand the symptoms and causes of pneumonia disease to help you seek timely medical intervention.

Recognizing the Signs of Pneumonia

Viral pneumonitis symptoms vary in severity from mild to life-threatening, based on the age and health of the individual and the type of germ causing the infection. However, some common signs include:

• Cough, often producing phlegm or pus

• Fever exceeding, accompanied by sweating and chills

• Difficulty breathing

• Chest pain while breathing or coughing

• Fatigue and feelings of weakness

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea

• Headaches

• Loss of appetite

These symptoms may resemble a common cold or flu but are more severe and persistent. In infants, signs may not be apparent but could include vomiting, fatigue, or trouble eating. Children under 5 years old may show rapid breathing or wheezing. Older adults may have milder symptoms, such as confusion and a lower body temperature.

Causes of Pneumonia Disease

Many bacteria, viruses, and fungi can cause pneumonia. The most common are bacteria and viruses in the air we breathe. Pneumonia is classified based on the type of germ that causes it & where you got the infection. They are:

1. Community acquired Pneumonia

This is the most common type of pneumonia which occurs outside hospital or health-care facilities. It may be caused by:

• Bacteria: The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae. This type of pneumonia can occur on its own or follow a cold or flu. Another bacteria-like organism, Mycoplasma pneumonia can also cause pneumonia. This type produces milder symptoms than others and is informally referred as ‘walking pneumonia’ as it isn’t severe enough to require bed rest.

• Viruses: Viruses are the most common cause of pneumonia in children younger than 5 years. Viruses causing cold and flu can also cause pneumonia. While viral pneumonia is usually mild and the symptoms resolve on their own, in some cases it can become serious. For instance, COVID-19 may cause pneumonia which can become severe.

• Fungi: They type affects those with weakened immune system or chronic health conditions, & in people who have inhaled large doses of the organisms such as pneumocystis jiroveciit. This fungi can be found in soil or bird droppings, and they vary depending upon the geographic location.

2. Hospital-acquired Pneumonia

This occurs when during a hospital stay for another illness.

3. Health Care-Acquired Pneumonia

This occurs in people who live in long-term care facilities or who receive care in outpatient clinics, including kidney dialysis centers.

4. Aspiration Pneumonia

This can occur when food, drink, or saliva enter the lungs.

Who’s at Increased Risk?

The following risk factors can increase the susceptibility to pneumonia:

• Age

Children and adults over 65 are at higher risk due to weaker immune systems.

• Chronic health conditions

Individuals with underlying conditions like heart disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes are more susceptible.

• Smoking

Smoking damages the lungs, making them more vulnerable to infection.

• Weakened immune system

People with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant drugs have a higher risk.

• Lifestyle factors

Malnutrition, lack of sleep, and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the immune system and raise vulnerability.