Pneumonia is more than just a cough or a cold. It is a serious infection that can be life-threatening, especially for those with weakened immune systems or certain health conditions. Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs, causing inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This condition can affect anyone from infants to the elderly, and can be fatal if not treated properly.
What Happens to the Lungs During Pneumonia?
When someone gets pneumonia, the air sacs in their lungs become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus. This makes it difficult to breathe because oxygen can't get into the bloodstream properly.
Learn More About Pneumonia
1. Pneumonia can be caused by various factors, including:
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia.
- Viruses: Viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and rhinovirus can cause viral pneumonia.
- Fungal: Fungal pneumonia is less common, usually in people with weakened immune systems.
- Parasites: Parasites that often cause pneumonia are Toxoplasma gondii, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Strongyloides stercoralis. These parasites can enter the lungs through contaminated food or water.
2. Basic Symptoms of Pneumonia to Watch Out For
Symptoms of pneumonia can vary, depending on the cause and severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough with phlegm or dry cough
- Hard to breathe
- Chest pain when breathing or coughing
- Shivering
- Fatigue
Who is at High Risk for Pneumonia?
Some groups of people have a higher risk of developing pneumonia, including:
- Infants and children under 5 years
- Seniors over 65 years old
- People with weakened immune systems (for example, people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplant recipients)
- People with chronic diseases (for example, lung disease, heart disease, or diabetes)
- Smoker
Pneumonia Prevention: Vaccination is Key!
Pneumonia can be prevented in several ways, and vaccination is one of the most effective. The pneumonia vaccine can help protect against infection with the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia.
Why is Pneumonia Vaccine Important?
- Building Immunity: Pneumonia vaccines help the body build immunity against the bacteria that cause pneumonia.
- Prevent Serious Illness: Vaccination can prevent pneumonia, reducing the risk of serious complications such as sepsis (blood infection) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain).
- Protecting Vulnerable Groups: Pneumonia vaccines are especially important for infants, children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions who are at high risk of developing pneumonia.
Get Pneumonia Vaccine at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital
EMC Grha Kedoya provides pneumonia vaccination services to protect you and your family from this dangerous disease. Don't delay, protect your lungs now! Because every breath is a gift. Don't let pneumonia take it away. Get the pneumonia vaccine and provide the best protection for yourself and your loved ones.
Article written by dr. Jubilette Windy, M.Ked (Lung), Sp.P (Lung & Respiratory Specialist Doctor, EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).