Details Descriptions About :: pneumonia

Pneumonia causes symptoms treatment 

Description of Pneumonia

DefinitionAccording to dictionary definition  Pneumonia is an infection in one or both of the lungs and is usually caused due to bacterial or viral infection.  Causes and Risk FactorsAccording to dictionary definition  Common causes of pneumonia include:1. Infection due to bacteria, viruses, and fungi2. Inhalation of a liquid or chemicalPeople at risk include:1. Older than 65 or younger than 2 years of age2. Already have health problems  Signs and SymptomsAccording to dictionary definition  Symptoms of pneumonia vary from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:1. Have a high fever2. Have shaking chills3. Have a cough with phlegm that does not improve or gets worse4. Develop shortness of breath with normal daily activities5. Have chest pain when you breathe or cough6. Feel suddenly worse after a cold or the flu  InvestigationsAccording to dictionary definition  Investigations include:1. Your doctor may ask you for your medical history.2. Your doctor may examine you physically and suggest a few laboratory tests.  TreatmentAccording to dictionary definition  Treatment depends on what kind of infection the person has.1. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics should help to treat it.2. If it is a viral pneumonia, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medicine to treat it.  PreventionAccording to dictionary definition  1. Preventing pneumonia is always better than treating it. Vaccines are available to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and the flu.2. Other preventive measures include washing your hands frequently and not smoking.  NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute