Cough, fever, chills and excessive tiredness are some of the common symptoms in respiratory diseases. But what about when these common symptoms indicate a more serious problem than a simple cold? Pneumonia is a major causes of hospitalization in winter and requires extra attention. In this matter, the pulmonologist and member of the Brazilian Society of Pulmonology (SBP) and the Paulista Society of Pulmonology (SPP), Dr. Maria Cecilia Maioirano, clarifies which warning signs to observe, how the diagnosis can be made and which treatment options are available.
What is pneumonia?
“Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that affect alveoli (small structures responsible for oxygen absorption). When it occurs, these alveoli fill with secretion (mucus or pus), hindering body breathing and oxygenation.”explains Dr. Maria. The development of the disease can occur after flu, colds or direct inhalation of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses.
However, although bacteria and viruses are the most common causes, fungi can also cause pneumonia, especially in people with low immunity. Individuals with diseases such as diabetes, heart problems or chronic and elderly respiratory problems need to keep your attention redoubled. This is because people with a more debilitated immune system have more difficulty in combating infections, increasing the risk of developing severe pneumonia and associated complications.
Another important point when it comes to pneumonia is the differentiation between the types of the disease:
- Community pneumonia – contracted outside the hospital;
- Hospital pneumonia – acquired during hospitalizations, usually more severe;
- Aspiration Pneumonia – When food or liquids enter the lungs by mistake.
The pulmonologist points out that, in addition, it is possible to classify pneumonia by the causative agent, whether bacteria, viruses or fungus, which directly influences the type of treatment necessary.
How to identify symptoms?
Symptoms of pneumonia are often confused with those of other respiratory diseases. Since the most frequent symptoms include cough (with or without phlegm), high fever, chest pain when breathing, shortness of breath, intense tiredness, chills and a sense of general malaise. In older people, pneumonia can manifest with mental confusion or fall in general, even without fever.
Although there is similarity, the expert explains how to differentiate. “Pneumonia usually causes fever, which is usually higher and persistent compared to flu. Shortness of breath is more evident and more intense tiredness. Pneumonia can cause chest pain by breathing deeply, which does not usually happen in flu and bronchitis. The general condition may become more compromised in pneumonia, leading to intense tiredness and lack of appetite.”punctuates.
Pneumonia can get worse in people with low immunity, such as elderly, young children, patients with lung disease and other chronic pathologies (such as diabetes or heart problems). Therefore, in these cases, there may be respiratory failure and need for hospitalization. The doctor also points out that if symptoms such as cough, fever, shortness of breath and chest pain are intense and persistent, it is important to seek medical attention.
Diagnosis and how to treat
First, the diagnosis of pneumonia is based on symptoms and through physical examination (with pulmonary auscultation) and complementary exams. Among them, the most common is chest x-ray, which helps to visualize inflammation in the lungs, explains the pulmonologist. Another common examination used to diagnose is tomography, which can be performed when pneumonia suspected, even with normal RX. To identify the causative agent, professionals can also use blood tests and, in some cases, sputum tests.
As for treatment, Dr. Maria points out that it depends directly on the type of pneumonia, the causative agent and the severity of the board. “Bacterial pneumonia are treated with antibiotics. Already the PViral nehumonia, in general, improve with rest, hydration and medications for symptom relief. Fungal pneumonia are treated with antifungals. The most serious cases, with shortness of breath or fall in the general condition, may require hospitalization, oxygen, artificial ventilation, intravenous antibiotics and intensive care “clarifies the doctor.
The expert also points out that it is possible to prevent pneumonia. Prevention includes maintaining influenza vaccination, covid-19 and pneumococc on time, having hygiene habits such as washing hands, avoid contact with people with breathing symptoms, using masks in environments with agglomeration, maintaining good diet, hydration and regular practice of physical activity. Finally, the doctor points out that not smoking is also fundamental, as the cigarette impairs the natural defense of the lungs.