Description

🫁 Pneumonia Definition: Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli). These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult for oxygen to pass into the blood. ⸻ 🔹 Causes Pneumonia can be caused by various microorganisms, including: 1. Bacteria – Streptococcus pneumoniae (most common) 2. Viruses – Influenza virus, RSV, Adenovirus, Coronavirus 3. Fungi – Candida, Aspergillus (especially in immunocompromised persons) 4. Atypical organisms – Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila Mode of Transmission • Spread through inhalation of droplets from coughing or sneezing • Sometimes from aspiration of oropharyngeal secretions • Less commonly, from bloodstream spread ⸻ 🔹 Common Symptoms • Cough (may produce yellow or green sputum) • Fever and chills • Chest pain (worse while breathing or coughing) • Shortness of breath • Fatigue and weakness • Loss of appetite • In severe cases: bluish lips/nails, confusion (especially in elderly) ⸻ 🔹 Diagnosis • Clinical examination • Radiological investigation • Blood tests • Pulse oximetry ⸻ 🔹 Treatment Depends on the cause and severity: 1. Bacterial pneumonia: → Treated with antibiotics 2. Viral pneumonia: → Usually supportive care → Antivirals in some cases ( 3. Severe cases: → Hospitalization, oxygen therapy, IV fluids, sometimes ventilator support ⸻ 🔹 Prevention • Vaccination: • Pneumococcal vaccine (for children, elderly, and high-risk adults) • Influenza vaccine annually • Good hygiene (hand washing, covering coughs) • Avoid smoking • Maintain good nutrition and immunity ⸻ 🔹 Complications • Pleural effusion (fluid around lungs) • Lung abscess • Sepsis (infection spreads to bloodstream) • Respiratory failure

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