Pneumonia

WHAT IS PNEUMONIA?

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the
air sacs in one or both lungs. The air sacs
may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with
phlegm or pus, fever, chills and difficulty
breathing. A variety of organisms, including
bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause
pneumonia.

Pneumonia can range in seriousness from
mild to life-threatening. It is most serious for
infants and young children, people older
than age 65, and people with underlying
health problems or weakened immune
systems.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS ?

_Cough, which may produce thick, sticky fluid
_Chest pain when you breathe deeply or cough
_Shortness of breath
_Fatigue and muscle aches
_Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
_Headache, fever
_Newborns and infant

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?

Pneumonia has many possible causes. The
most common are bacteria and viruses in
the air we breathe. Your body usually
prevents these germs from infecting your
lungs. But sometimes these germs can
overpower your immune system, even if your
health is generally good.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT

Specific treatments depend on the type and
severity of your pneumonia, and your age
and overall health. The options include:
_Antibiotics (azithromycin, vacomycin,
erythromycin and so on)

_Antiviral medication(rimantadine)
_Fever reducer( ibuprofen, aspirin, pcm)
_Cough medicine( any cough suppressant,
or A teaspoon (5 grams) of honey in warm
water is a good home remedy to loosen up
sputum (though it shouldn't be used in
children younger than age l).

You may need hospitalization if your
condition is worst. Don't initiate any
treatment without talking to you doctor.