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Pneumonia
Moderate
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, chills, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other infectious organisms, and its severity can range from mild to life-threatening.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for severe difficulty breathing, bluish or gray lips or skin, chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Older adults and people with serious underlying conditions may need prompt assessment even when symptoms appear less severe.
Symptoms
4
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing symptoms such as cough, fever, chills, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other infectious organisms, and its severity can range from mild to life-threatening.
Symptoms 4
Chest Pain
Dry Cough
Fatigue
Fever
Causes 3
Pneumonia may result from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms entering the respiratory system. Common causes vary according to age, health status, location, and exposure. Pneumonia may develop after another respiratory infection or when organisms are inhaled into the lungs. Aspiration of food, liquid, vomit, or other material can also cause pneumonia.
Autoimmune Disorder
Genetics
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors for pneumonia include older age, very young age, weakened immune function, chronic lung or heart disease, diabetes, smoking, poor nutrition, and prolonged hospitalization. Difficulty swallowing or impaired consciousness can increase the risk of aspiration. Exposure to certain infectious organisms and crowded environments may also increase risk.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Pneumonia is diagnosed using symptoms, a physical examination, and medical history. A healthcare professional may listen to the lungs for abnormal sounds. A chest X-ray or other imaging may help identify inflammation in the lungs. Depending on severity, additional tests such as blood tests, oxygen measurements, sputum testing, or other investigations may be needed to identify the cause or assess complications.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Pneumonia risk can be reduced through recommended vaccinations, regular hand hygiene, avoiding tobacco smoke, managing chronic medical conditions, maintaining good nutrition, and reducing exposure to people with respiratory infections when appropriate
People at higher risk should discuss recommended vaccines and preventive measures with a healthcare professional
Prevention Guidance
Pneumonia risk can be reduced through recommended vaccinations, regular hand hygiene, avoiding tobacco smoke, managing chronic medical conditions, maintaining good nutrition, and reducing exposure to people with respiratory infections when appropriate. People at higher risk should discuss recommended vaccines and preventive measures with a healthcare professional.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Disease modifying medications.
Supportive inflammation management.
Individualized autoimmune care.
Supportive therapy.
Flexibility and mobility support.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Omega-3 Foods
Fish
Vegetables
Foods to Avoid
Smoking
Processed Foods
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
An autoimmune disease affecting joints.
No, but effective treatments are available.
Yes. It may affect organs beyond joints.
Early treatment reduces joint damage.
Genetics can increase risk.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.