What Is Pneumonia? Symptoms, Causes, and Who is at Risk?

A respiratory infection in which the air sacs also called as alveoli are inflamed in the lungs, because of it being filled with either fluid or pus is called pneumonia. Common symptoms that are associated with pneumonia are cough, fever, chills and difficulty in breathing. A variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and sometimes parasites can cause infection of the lungs. Bacterial pneumonia which is a more severe infection may require antibiotic treatment. It is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Viruses such as influenza or respiratory syncytial virus are known to cause viral pneumonia which most of the times resolves on its own or may require supportive care. Fungal pneumonia is less common and typically affects immunocompromised individuals. This was seen during the COVID-19 treatment as patients were prescribed steroids to help control the infection which rendered them immunocompromised thus making them susceptible to the black fungus infection. Chronic Pulmonary Disease Treatment in Kukatpally includes vaccination (e.g., pneumococcal and influenza vaccines), good hygiene practices, and avoiding smoking. Pneumonia can be mild or severe, and if untreated, it can lead to complications like lung abscess, pleural effusion, or sepsis, making prompt medical attention vital. Asthma Treatment near Kukatpally primarily involves inhaled medications like corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and bronchodilators such as beta-agonists for quick relief during attacks. Long-term control may include leukotriene modifiers and immunotherapies. Managing triggers, monitoring symptoms, and creating an action plan are essential for effective asthma management and preventing exacerbations.

Symptoms

Common symptoms associated with pneumonia include cough that produces phlegm or mucus that is green, yellow, or even bloody; pain in the chest that sometimes may worsen with deep breaths or even while coughing. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath or rapid breathing. Fever is typically present, often accompanied by chills and sweating, along with fatigue and general weakness. Chills, headache, and muscle aches are also some of the other symptoms noticed in a person suffering with pneumonia. Younger children and older adults may present atypically, with symptoms such as confusion or decreased appetite in the elderly and vomiting or diarrhoea in children. Additional signs can include a bluish tint to lips or nails due to low oxygen levels. In severe cases, pneumonia can lead to complications like abscesses or pleural effusions, and prompt medical attention by a Pulmonologist in Kukatpally is crucial to prevent worsening of symptoms or systemic infection. Therefore, it is very important to recognize these symptoms early, which then enables the person to seek appropriate treatment from the Best Pulmonology Hospitals near Kukatpally thereby significantly improving the outcome thus reducing the risk of complications. Diagnosis by an Allergy Specialist in Kukatpally involves a physical exam, chest X-rays, and laboratory tests such as blood work or sputum analysis. Treatment varies depending on the cause but usually involves antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and supportive therapies like oxygen or fluids.

Causes

Pneumonia can be broadly classified as

1. Bacterial pneumonia, most commonly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, often occurs when bacteria enter the lungs through inhalation or spread from other parts of the body.
2. Viral pneumonia can result from respiratory viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or coronaviruses like COVID-19, which weaken the lung tissue and immune defenses, facilitating secondary bacterial infections.
3. Fungal pneumonia, though less common, typically affects immunocompromised individuals and is caused by fungi such as Pneumocystis jirovecii or Aspergillus species.

Other risk factors that an Allergy Specialist in Kukatpally may consider include smoking, which damages lung cilia and impairs clearance of pathogens; chronic lung diseases like COPD; weakened immune systems from conditions such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, or chemotherapy; age extremes, particularly very young children and the elderly; and environmental factors like pollution or exposure to toxic fumes. Additionally, aspiration of food, liquids, or vomit can introduce bacteria into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia. Overall, the causes of pneumonia are multifactorial, involving pathogen exposure, host immunity, and environmental influences that compromise lung defenses.

Who are at risk?

Individuals at increased risk of pneumonia include young children, especially those under the age of five, due to their developing immune systems, and older adults over 65, who often experience weakened immune responses and underlying health conditions. People with chronic illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, or heart disease are also more vulnerable, as these conditions can impair lung function and immune defenses. Immunocompromised individuals, including those undergoing chemotherapy, receiving immunosuppressive therapy, or living with HIV/AIDS, face higher susceptibility. Smokers and individuals with a history of respiratory infections are at increased risk because smoking damages lung tissue and impairs cilia function, reducing the lungs' ability to clear pathogens. Additionally, residents of long-term care facilities or nursing homes are at greater risk due to close living quarters and increased exposure to infectious agents. Other factors include poor nutrition, substance abuse issues, also those who are bedridden are more prone to pneumonia.

If you or someone you know are suffering with the above-mentioned symptoms visiting Dr. Y. Rama Pratyusha who is one of the Best Lung Specialist in Kukatpally can help prevent it from escalating into something more severe thereby reducing the risk associated with pneumonia.