Pneumonia

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs.  It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites and other organisms.  Pneumonia is often spread by inhaling infected particles or by aspiration ("swallowing" into the lungs).  It can spread through the blood stream to infect other parts of the body.

Who Gets Pneumonia?

Some people may be at a higher risk of developing pneumonia.  These include people with chronic lung disease, diabetes, immune suppression (which can occur with steroid use), the elderly and alcoholics.

What are symptoms of pneumonia?

Typical symptoms of pneumonia include:

• a cough (with or without sputum),
• chest pain,
• rapid breathing,
• shortness of breath. 
• fever,
• sweats,
• headache
• and weakness.

Symptoms of bacterial pneumonias often begin quickly, with a cough that is productive of green or rust colored sputum, fever (often with chills), and pain along the chest wall.  Infections caused by mycoplasma and viruses typically develop more slowly, often after a few days of flu-like symptoms.  They can create a hack or barky cough, a headache, and pain under the breastbone.

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

To diagnose pneumonia, the health care provider begins with a thorough medical history and physical exam.

The health care provider may order several tests to help diagnose the pneumonia. 

• Chest x-rays can often find out if a person has pneumonia. 
• Blood tests and sputum tests are very helpful to find out the cause of pneumonia. 
• A biopsy (taking a lung tissue sample via needle, tube, or surgery) may be done in more severe cases.

What is the treatment?

The key to successful treatment is prompt medical care.  The treatment will depend on how severe the symptoms are and the type of organism causing the infection.  Antibiotics are used in bacterial, mycoplasma and parasitic infections.  Specific medicines may not be given for many viral pneumonias.  Several antiviral medicines are available for the treatment of specific viruses.  Inhaled quick-relief medicine is used at times to keep the airways open, especially for those people who have asthma or bronchitis.  If severe pneumonia is present a person may need to stay in the hospital.  Additional treatment may include rest, fluids, oxygen, and techniques to help bring up the sputum.

What is preventive therapy?

A vaccine is available to help prevent infection caused by the pneumococcal bacteria.  An annual flu shot may be helpful in decreasing pneumonia caused by influenza.  Ask your health care provider about what vaccines are best for you.  Other preventive measures include good medical control of chronic lung and sinus problems, good hand washing, and avoiding smoke.  If you smoke, ask your doctor about ways to give up smoking.

How long does pneumonia last?

Pneumonia can last a short or long time.  Its length depends upon the organism involved, the general health of the person, and how promptly a person gets medical care.  Some people may be hospitalized while others continue their routine without being aware that they are infected.  Certain people may have to limit their work or school schedule for a short time.  Your health care provider can help you define any limits on work or other activities. It is important to remember that infection (especially from viruses) may lead to a cough that lasts for 6-8 weeks after the infection clears.  You may want to talk with your health care provider about how long your symptoms may last.

Are there complications?

Complications from pneumonia may occur.  Secondary infections (usually bacterial) may require that antibiotics be added or altered to treat the new organism.  Rarely, a lung abscess may result from pneumonia.  If excess fluid builds up in the sac around the lungs (pleural effusion), this also may need to be drained.  Low blood sodium (hyponatremia) can also be a complication of bacterial pneumonia.  Children are especially prone to this.  In these cases, a person may need to be hospitalized for I.V. (intravenous) fluids.  Many complications from pneumonia can be prevented by prompt medical care.

NOTE:  This information is provided as an educational service of LUNG LINE®.  It is not meant to be a substitute for consulting with your own physician.

© 1989, revised 2005 National Jewish Health.

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