Pneumonia: Understanding Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options
Pneumonia is a common but potentially serious respiratory infection that can affect one or both lungs. This condition is often highly treatable, but it is important to catch the infection early before it becomes severe. Left untreated, pneumonia could become life-threatening, especially in very young, very old or immunocompromised individuals.
RWJBarnabas Health’s lung services provide advanced diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care for people of all age groups in New Jersey. Our primary care physicians are expert diagnosticians and can help determine whether a person’s symptoms indicate pneumonia. They can provide treatment for milder cases, or refer patients to lung specialists, called pulmonologists, if symptoms are more serious. Our hospitals are well-equipped to handle emergencies resulting from advanced pneumonia.
What Is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection in the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. The infection causes inflammation and may lead to an accumulation of pus or fluid in the alveoli, which can lead to fever, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
There are a few different categories of pneumonia:
- Community-acquired pneumonia is contracted outside a hospital or nursing home.
- Hospital-acquired pneumonia develops during a patient's stay in a hospital, nursing facility or other health care treatment center.
- Ventilator-associated pneumonia develops after a patient has been placed on a mechanical ventilator, usually after more than 48 hours of ventilator use.
It's important to seek prompt medical attention for any suspected case of pneumonia to prevent the condition from worsening.
What Causes Pneumonia?
Pneumonia typically results from bacterial infections, fungal infections, or viruses such as colds, the flu, coronaviruses or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
In addition to these common causes, some patients may be diagnosed with something called atypical pneumonia, which comes from pathogens that aren't usually associated with pneumonia.
Finally, aspiration pneumonia occurs when someone accidentally inhales food, liquids, vomit or other substances that irritate the delicate lung sacs.
Risk Factors for Pneumonia
Anyone can develop pneumonia, but several risk factors make a serious infection more likely:
- Age. Infants and the elderly are most at risk.
- Chronic diseases. People who suffer from diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other chronic diseases are more susceptible.
- Smoking and substance use. Smoking and drug use weaken the immune system and inhibit lung function.
- Immunocompromised state. People with HIV or other immune conditions have a higher risk of contracting pneumonia, as do patients receiving chemotherapy.
What Are the Symptoms of Pneumonia?
Though symptoms can be different depending on the type of pneumonia and the patient's overall health, most people with pneumonia experience:
- A persistent cough accompanied by phlegm or mucus
- Chest pain, especially while coughing or breathing hard
- Fever, chills and sweating
- Shortness of breath
If shortness of breath or chest pain become severe or if you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care immediately:
- Difficulty breathing
- Bluish tint to lips or face
- Persistent fevers
- Confusion, especially in older adults
People with a weakened immune system should see a doctor as soon as symptoms develop. Even mild pneumonia symptoms can worsen quickly.
How Is Pneumonia Diagnosed?
At RWJBarnabas Health, we use a number of methods to arrive at a pneumonia diagnosis:
- Physical exam. A physician will first conduct a physical examination to listen for signs of wheezing or crackling in the lungs.
- Imaging tests. These tests, such as an X-ray or CT scan, which will detect inflammation and pockets of infection.
- Blood tests. We may conduct laboratory blood tests to look for potential infection sources.
- Sputum test. This test can identify the pathogens responsible for the illness.
As treatment proceeds, doctors will monitor blood oxygen level using pulse oximetry.
Pneumonia Treatment
Treatments for pneumonia may include:
- Medication. Medication is typically the first line of defense; antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, antivirals for viral pneumonia, or antifungals for fungal pneumonia. Medications can treat fever, pain and inflammation.
- Intravenous fluids. Intravenous fluids may be given for hydration.
- Oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy may be used for breathing problems.
In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intensive monitoring, additional treatments, and immediate access to ventilators in case of respiratory failure.
At RWJBarnabas health, our team of pulmonologists, respiratory disease specialists, and respiratory therapists work together to ensure that each patient receives the very best course of treatment for their individual case.
Pneumonia Support Services
RWJBarnabas Health patients have access to numerous services that can hasten recovery times. Our services include:
- Pulmonary therapy and rehabilitation programs that improve lung function
- Educational materials that explain how to manage symptoms and prevent pneumonia from recurring
- Nutrition counseling that supports recovery
Ways to Prevent Getting Pneumonia
The best prevention for pneumonia is to live a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and a nutritious diet. Good hygiene practices, including hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick people, can also go a long way toward preventing illnesses.
Routine checkups and preventive health screenings can detect pneumonia even in its earlier stages, so schedule an appointment with one of our physicians to make sure you have a clean bill of health. High-risk individuals should also consider getting vaccinated to reduce the chances of developing a severe illness.
If you’re experiencing chest pain or have difficulty breathing, dial 911 or visit an emergency room near you.