What is pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs)?
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.
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 health problems or weakened immune systems.
Pneumonia is a noticeable pathology and the risk of deteriorating health significantly increases due to delayed consultation with the doctor or self-medication.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of pneumonia vary from mild to severe, depending on factors such as the type of germ causing the infection, and your age and overall health.
Mild signs and symptoms often are similar to those of a cold or flu, but they last longer.
Signs and symptoms of pneumonia may include:
- Chest pain when you breathe or cough
- Confusion or changes in mental awareness (in adults age 65 and older)
- Cough, which may produce phlegm
- Fatigue
- Fever, sweating and shaking chills
- Lower than normal body temperature (in adults older than age 65 and people with weak immune systems)
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
Pneumonia in children
Newborns and infants may not show any signs of the infection.
The following symptoms are more common in this age group:
- Vomiting;
- Fever and cough;
- Lack of energy, fatigue or restlessness;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Difficulty feeding.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354204
