Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
Pneumonia can range in seriousness from mild to life-threatening. It is most serious for infants and young children, people over 65, and people with health problems or weakened immune systems. For some older adults and people with heart failure or chronic lung problems, pneumonia can quickly become a life-threatening condition.
Symptoms
Signs of pneumonia may include:
– chest pain when you breathe or cough.
– confusion or changes in mental awareness in adults 65 and older.
– cough, which may produce phlegm.
– fatigue.
– fever, sweating and shaking chills.
– lower than normal body temperature.
– nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
– shortness of breath.
Seek medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, or persistent cough.
It’s especially important that people in these high-risk groups see a healthcare professional:
– adults older than 65.
– children younger than two.
– people with an underlying health condition or weakened immune system.
– people receiving chemotherapy or taking medication that suppresses the immune system.
Prevention
Get vaccinated. Vaccines are available to prevent some types of pneumonia and the flu. Talk with your healthcare team about getting these shots. The vaccination guidelines have changed over time so make sure to review your vaccination status with your healthcare professional even if you recall previously receiving a pneumonia vaccine.
Make sure children get vaccinated. Healthcare professionals recommend a different pneumonia vaccine for children younger than two and those between two and five who are at particular risk of pneumococcal disease. Flu shots are recommended for children older than six months.
Practice good hygiene. To protect yourself against respiratory infections that sometimes lead to pneumonia, wash your hands regularly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Don’t smoke. Smoking damages your lungs’ natural defenses against respiratory infections.
Keep your immune system strong. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
Mayo Clinic News Network (TNS)
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