Know More About Infections Disease - Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can make you sick and bed ridden. It shows symptoms such as high fever, cough, difficulty in breathing and chest pain. In a mild case of pneumonia you can treat it at home, but in most of the severe cases, you need doctor consultation.


What causes pneumonia?

Pneumonia is usually caused by the germs such as bacteria or viruses. When you breathe, these tiny organisms enter into the lungs and cause illness. Sometimes it may also occur due to having chronic diseases like asthma, heart disease, cancer or diabetes.






What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of pneumonia which are usually common in everyone includes-

1. Cough

2. High fever

3. Fast breathing and feeling short of breath

4. Chills

5. Chest pain

6. Fast heartbeat

7. Feeling very tired or very weak

8. Nausea and vomiting

9. Diarrhea


Risk Factors of getting Pneumonia include-

1. Smoke-You are highly susceptible to pneumonia if you are a smoker.

2. Asthma or any other lung disease.

3. Age younger than 1 year and older than 65 years.

4. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.

5. Frequent cold or flu.


Diagnosis-

Sometimes you may not know that you have pneumonia. You may understand it as a simple cold and flu. It is better to consult your doctor and tell about your symptoms. He may suggest you chest X-ray and complete blood count (CBC) to confirm it.


Prevention-

It is always better to keep yourself protected from these diseases. Following good habits is the best way to escape from it. Try to keep your hands and face clean with soap or hand sanitizer to destroy the germs that cause it. Take a healthy diet and exercise regularly to keep your immune system strong. Vaccinate yourself if you are above 60. Stop smoking as smoking increases the vulnerability to getting infected.