Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about PNEUMONIA. Let’s dive in!
Pneumonia is an infectious disease that causes inflammation and hardening in the lung tissue, particularly in the respiratory bronchioles and below, due to bacteria or viruses.
What are the symptoms and preventive measures for pneumonia? And how should pneumonia medications be used safely? Here’s a guide on pneumonia symptoms, prevention methods, and the safe use of related medications.
American actor Val Kilmer passed away on the 1st (local time). Born in 1959, he spent his final days in Los Angeles (LA), the city where he was born.
According to the New York Times, the cause of death was reported to be pneumonia. After being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, he went through treatment and recovery, eventually returning to the screen—but his condition later worsened. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed to the New York Times that pneumonia was the cause of his passing.
What Are the Symptoms of Pneumonia?
Pneumonia generally causes symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, fever, and difficulty breathing. Chills and chest pain may also occur. In addition to respiratory symptoms, people may experience fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, muscle pain, and joint pain.
The most common cause of pneumonia is infection, which can come from bacteria, viruses, fungi (molds), atypical pathogens, tuberculosis bacteria, rickettsia, or parasites. While less common, non-infectious pneumonia can also occur due to exposure to chemicals, inhaled gases, radiation therapy, medications, or allergies.
How Is Pneumonia Treated?
Pneumonia treatment depends on the type of pathogen involved.
Bacterial Pneumonia
In general, community-acquired pneumonia is assumed to be bacterial and is treated with empirical antibiotics. Once the specific microorganism is identified, targeted antibiotic treatment is applied accordingly.
Viral Pneumonia
For viral pneumonia such as the flu, antiviral medications can be effective during the early stages. However, if treatment is delayed, these medications may not have a significant effect.
Duration of Pneumonia Treatment
Short-Term Treatment
Antibiotics are typically prescribed for 7–10 days. However, the duration may vary depending on the causative microorganism, the patient's condition, the type of antibiotic used, response to treatment, and the presence of complications or coexisting illnesses.
To complete treatment, the patient should be fever-free for 48–72 hours, and there should be no remaining clinical signs before stopping the medication.
Long-Term Treatment
In cases involving staphylococcal pneumonia with bacteremia, infections spreading beyond the lungs, or poor response to initial treatment, short-term therapy may not be sufficient. If signs of tissue necrosis are present, longer treatment is needed. Legionella pneumonia also requires at least 14 days of long-term therapy.
How Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?
Vaccines are available to prevent pneumonia caused by influenza (flu) and pneumococcal bacteria. People aged 65 and older or those with weakened immune systems are especially encouraged to get vaccinated. Because flu viruses change each year, an annual flu shot is recommended every fall.
Quitting smoking is also very important in preventing pneumonia. About one-third of pneumonia cases are related to smoking. For older adults in particular, quitting smoking and maintaining good nutrition can help prevent complications.
Major Types of Pneumonia Antibiotics and Cautions
Penicillin-Based Antibiotics
The most common side effects are allergic reactions such as hives, skin rashes, itching, and runny nose. In rare cases, anaphylaxis may occur, which requires immediate emergency care. Other possible side effects include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Cephalosporin-Based Antibiotics
These are structurally similar to penicillin. People who are allergic to penicillin may also react to cephalosporins. Common side effects include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Macrolide-Based Antibiotics
Clarithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, may increase the risk of muscle disorders and should not be used together with cholesterol-lowering medications like simvastatin or lovastatin. Though rare, macrolides can cause arrhythmias. If you experience a racing heart, extreme fatigue, or dizziness, stop the medication and consult a doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Fluoroquinolone-Based Antibiotics
These can cause muscle and joint issues, including tendon and joint pain, numbness, or muscle weakness. They are not recommended for people under 18 as they may interfere with cartilage development. In rare cases, they can cause photosensitivity reactions, so applying sunscreen during the course of treatment is recommended.
Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!💖
This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.
