Being diagnosed with pneumonia is not a good sign for most young children and older adults. Most of the time, suffering from such bacterial infection can result in significant health problems. That’s because having pneumonia can lead to pulmonary distress, and can also affect other body systems if not addressed early on. In that case, learning the pneumonia symptoms is key to being one step ahead.
Whether you are experiencing possible pneumonia symptoms or someone you know is diagnosed with this respiratory condition, understanding this guide can help. Find out the warning signs and why they warrant a visit to a pulmonologist. Let’s begin!
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a health condition that typically occurs due to bacteria, virus, and fungi. Each of them is a common cause of pneumonia that can result in the inflammation of the lungs, and sometimes bring fluid or pus into the air sacs. Thus, making it difficult to breathe, and other pneumonia symptoms.
Early Warning Signs of Pneumonia
Symptoms of pneumonia can hardly be detected due to its interrelated symptoms with other health conditions. For instance, influenza and pneumonia share symptoms like fever, chills, muscle pain, etc. Unfortunately, some people disregard them until serious symptoms come in. That’s what you should avoid in the future as pneumonia is an alarming illness.
In that case, here are the symptoms you need to watch out for:
- Dry or productive cough with phlegm (yellow, green, or bloody mucus)
- Difficulty breathing even when at rest
- Tightness, stabbing pain in the chest that worsens with deep breaths
- High fever with temperature above 38°C (100.4°F)
- Sweating and shivering
- Feeling extremely tired despite resting
- Reduced physical activity due to exhaustion
- May also experience vomiting or diarrhea
CAP Types of Pneumonia and Pneumonia Symptoms.
There are 5 main categories to better understand the types of pneumonia. These categories involve community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP), healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and aspiration pneumonia. However, the most common among them that targets many of the population is the community-acquired pneumonia. Let’s discuss them below!
Bacterial Pneumonia
This type of pneumonia is commonly caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. Take note that this bacteria is commonly seen in the throat area. However, as the body’s immune system goes down, the bacteria can also travel to the lungs. Thus, signaling the beginning of a bacterial pneumonia.
Other types of bacteria can also lead to bacterial pneumonia. It’s best to seek immediate help from a pulmonologist if you think you have this type of respiratory illness. The doctor will prescribe you antibiotics to treat the lung infection caused by the bacteria.
Symptoms of Bacterial Pneumonia
- cough with green and yellow mucus or sometimes mucus with blood
- chills and high fever (above 102°F)
- heavy breathing with chest pains
- fatigue and weakness
- muscle pain
- confusion and fever lower than 102°F in elderly patients
Viral Pneumonia
Meanwhile, another type of pneumonia includes having a viral infection in the lungs. It is commonly caused by viruses like influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19. When compared to bacterial pneumonia, this type is considered a less severe condition, and cannot be treated by antibiotics.
In that case, wide age groups are possibly vulnerable to this kind of condition, especially those with underlying health conditions. These medical conditions can lead to weak immune systems, which further affects the lung health and leads to viral pneumonia.
Symptoms of Viral Pneumonia
- trouble breathing
- dry cough with yellow and green mucus
- fever
- chills
- fatigue and weakness
- headache
- muscle pain
- bluish color lips
Fungal Pneumonia
On the other hand, another type of pneumonia is called fungal pneumonia. It occurs due to a fungal infection that weakens the immune system. Its most common cause is fungi like Pneumocystis jirovecii. This kind of pneumonia involves 3 illnesses (e.g., blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis). However, such kinds of fungal pneumonia can only be seen in the United States. Severe cases of fungal pneumonia can lead to meningitis. So, it’s best to seek immediate intervention.
Symptoms of Fungal Pneumonia
- fever and headache
- cough
- fatigue and weakness
- body ache
- night sweats
- rashes (common symptom for coccidioidomycosis)
How to Prevent Pneumonia?
When it comes to prevention of pneumonia, simple yet healthy practices are a huge help. One of the common denominators of the 3 types of pneumonia is a weakened immune system. In short, the best way to prevent getting this illness is by strengthening your immune system.
Here are some effective ways to reduce your risk:
- Get Vaccinated – Pneumococcal and flu vaccines can prevent certain types of pneumonia.
- Wash Hands Regularly – Reduces the spread of viruses and bacteria.
- Avoid Smoking – Weakens lung defenses against infections.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle and Good Diet – Strengthens the immune system.
- Practice Good Hygiene – Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
For adult vaccination, check how you can begin receiving the vaccine here.
Read related article vaccine schedule for children
Treatment Options for Pneumonia
If you are diagnosed with pneumonia by a pulmonologist, you will possibly receive a curated treatment option depending on the type of pneumonia you have. As mentioned earlier, antibiotics don’t work with viral infections, and can only work against bacteria. That’s why a specific medication will be prescribed.
Here are the treatment methods to help manage pneumonia symptoms.
1. Medications
- Bacterial Pneumonia: Antibiotics like amoxicillin or azithromycin
- Viral Pneumonia: Antiviral drugs for severe cases
- Fungal Pneumonia: Antifungal medications for immunocompromised patients
2. Home Remedies and Care
- Rest and hydrate with water, tea, and soups
- Use a humidifier to ease breathing
- Avoid smoking or exposure to pollutants
3. Hospitalization
- Required for severe cases, especially for young children and seniors
- Oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids may be necessary
When to See a Pulmonologist Near Me
With pneumonia being a health condition that is common for children and adults, it’s best to be cautious of your symptoms and seek immediate help when necessary. Doing so can help prevent further complications, especially if you are a high risk individual.
Consult a doctor if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Fever lasting more than three days
- Chest pain that worsens with breathing
- Cough with blood-stained mucus
- Confusion or dizziness, especially in elderly patients
- COVID-19 patient
Emergency Situations
Go to the hospital immediately if you or a loved one experiences:
- Bluish lips or fingernails (a sign of oxygen deprivation)
- Severe difficulty breathing
- A rapid drop in blood pressure (leading to fainting or confusion)
How to Book A Pulmonologist Consultation on NowServing
If you don’t have a doctor yet to address your pneumonia symptoms, you can use NowServing to locate the best pulmonologist for your case. NowServing is a Philippine healthcare app that allows you to consult doctors anytime and anywhere.
Here’s how:
- Click the link to view the list of pulmonologists in the Philippines.
- Choose the best pulmonologist in the Philippines you want by pressing the “Book Appointment” button.
- Fill up the form with your details to continue the booking process.
- Wait for the confirmation message
You can also download the NowServing app for easier access.
Other use of NowServing
You can also use it if you seek the following services:
- get medical certification for travel, fit-to-work clearance, and school clearance
- buy and deliver medications to your home
- blood tests
- children vaccination
- home service COVID test
- diagnostic test (e.g., x-ray, ultrasound, ct scan, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is pneumonia contagious?
Yes, bacterial and viral pneumonia can spread through coughs, sneezes, or contaminated surfaces. Fungal pneumonia is not contagious. If you or any from your family is diagnosed with pneumonia, it is best to practice caution and avoid close contact to prevent your family from getting infected.
Can pneumonia go away without treatment?
Mild viral pneumonia may resolve on its own, but bacterial and severe cases require medical attention to prevent complications. At the same time, pneumonia caused by viruses and fungi are in need of immediate intervention as well. In that case, it’s best to meet with pulmonology doctors immediately.
How much is the pulmonologist consultation fee on NowServing?
The consultation fee on NowServing usually starts at Php 500.00. However, it can still vary depending on the rate of the doctor, and the other possible diagnostic test needed to properly diagnose your overall health.
For more information about NowServing consultation, access the NowServing website today!
Conclusion
Pneumonia can be life-threatening if left untreated. Recognizing early pneumonia symptoms, seeking timely medical attention, and following preventive measures can help protect you and your loved ones.
If you experience symptoms or need expert advice, book an appointment with a pulmonologist today. Stay informed, stay safe!