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Pneumonia

Chest X-ray showing fluid in lungs, next to a coughing patient with a blanket.

Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation and fluid build-up in the air sacs. It can be viral, bacterial, or fungal, with symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening.

Cough with mucus
Chest pain when breathing or coughing
Shortness of breath
Fever and chills
Fatigue
Confusion (especially in older adults)

Antibiotics: First-line treatment for bacterial pneumonia

Antivirals: For viral causes (e.g., flu-related)

Hospital care: Oxygen therapy or IV antibiotics for severe cases

Pneumococcal vaccine: Prevents common bacterial pneumonia strains

Caused by bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae), viruses (e.g., influenza, RSV), or fungi
Spread through airborne droplets or aspiration of fluids
Risk higher in elderly, infants, smokers, and those with chronic illness

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

Cough with mucus
Chest pain when breathing or coughing
Shortness of breath
Fever and chills
Fatigue
Confusion (especially in older adults)

Causes

Caused by bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae), viruses (e.g., influenza, RSV), or fungi
Spread through airborne droplets or aspiration of fluids
Risk higher in elderly, infants, smokers, and those with chronic illness