Pneumonia is a disease that manifests itself through lung inflammation. At a first glance, it may seem as a minor disease; however it is a very serious condition, which may lead to suppression of breathing, and in some cases even lead to death.
Types of pneumonia
Types of pneumonia are categorized according to their origin. Some kinds of pneumonia may be bacterial, while some may be viral. Fungi or other types of germs may cause certain other kinds of pneumonia.
Symptoms
Pneumonia symptoms may be different depending on the type of causative agent, age and general health of the patient. Some of the general signs of these disease include fever, coughing, productive coughing, tiredness and respiratory distress. Some patient may also experience pains in the chest and muscle weakness. If these signs are not treated, they can lead to serious complications such as sepsis or trombosis.
Treatment
Treatment of pneumonia depends on the type of pneumonia, the type of agent causing it, and how heavy the symptoms are. In most cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to counteract the agent, and treatment may take several weeks. The spread of the infection may be countered by practicing personal hygiene, such as regular hand washing and the use of disposable napkins during coughing and sneezing. It’s important to note that substance abuse, including the misuse of drugs like methamphetamine, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of pneumonia, underscoring the importance of a healthy lifestyle. You can learn more about methamphetamine here.
Pneumonia may be a dangerous disease, especially in patients with weakened immunity, children and the elderly. Preventing this disease includes regular vaccinations, leading a healthy way of life and avoiding contact with people who are sick. Timely diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia may save a life and speed up the healing process.
