Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can cause cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.
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Respiratory Infections | Lung Diseases | Lung Infection | Pneumonia Symptoms | Lung Inflammation
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Pneumonia FAQ


Image credit: svhlunghealth.com.au

What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lung primarily affecting the small air sacs known as alveoli. Symptoms typically include some combination of productive or dry cough, chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. The severity of the condition is variable.

What is the difference between pneumonia and pneumonitis?

Pneumonitis refers to lung inflammation; pneumonia refers to pneumonitis, usually due to infection but sometimes non-infectious, that has the additional feature of pulmonary consolidation.

What are the different types of pneumonia?

Pneumonia is classified according to the types of germs that cause it and where you got the infection. Community-acquired pneumonia is the most common type of pneumonia. It occurs outside of hospitals or other health care facilities. It may be caused by: Bacteria. The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia in the U.S. is Streptococcus pneumoniae.

What is bacterial pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, caused by bacteria or viruses. Anyone of any age can be affected, but children under the age of four years are very susceptible. Certain people can be immunised against one of the most common types of bacterial pneumonia. Pneumonia is a type of lung infection, caused by a virus or bacteria.

How long does pneumonia last?

Pneumonia can strike suddenly or gradually. With appropriate treatment, you can expect to get better in around seven to 10 days. The symptoms of pneumonia depend on the age of the person, the cause and severity of the infection, and any existing problems with immunity. Some of the symptoms may include:

Pneumonia References

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