PNEUMONIA: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF PNEUMONIA?

Pneumonia can arise as a complication of viral infections like the common cold, influenza, or COVID-19. In these situations, the virus manages to extend beyond the upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, larynx) and infiltrates the deeper regions of the lungs. Young children frequently experience pneumonia due to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Bacterial sources, such as pneumococcal bacteria, can also lead to pneumonia, typically resulting in more severe cases compared to viral pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia can even emerge as a complication of a preceding viral infection, a condition known as bacterial superinfection.

Individuals with HIV are at a heightened risk of contracting pneumonia induced by microorganisms referred to as mycoplasma.

Furthermore, pneumonia can develop from inhaling substances that irritate the lungs accidentally. For instance, this might occur when someone with swallowing difficulties, often due to illness or intoxication, aspirates food particles into their lungs.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK OF DEVELOPING PNEUMONIA?

Pneumonia is more likely to affect specific groups of people, primarily due to factors such as a less robust immune system or impaired lung function. These groups include:

1. Young children
2. Older individuals
3. Individuals with compromised immune systems resulting from diseases like HIV or cancer, or due to medical treatments such as organ transplants
4. Those with chronic lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (including chronic bronchitis and emphysema) and severe asthma
5. Additional risk factors that can increase the likelihood of pneumonia include alcoholism, smoking (including vaping), diabetes, and heart failure.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PNEUMONIA?

The symptoms of pneumonia vary depending on the severity of the infection, the type of pathogen, and the person’s overall health. A cough is almost always present.

Possible Symptoms:

• Severe cough, that is productive (yellow or green mucus) if it’s a bacterial infection, but dry if it’s caused by a virus
• Chills (especially with bacterial infection)
• Fever that is high when it’s a bacterial infection (up to 40,5 °C), or moderate when it’s a viral infection (up to 39 °C)
• Shortness of breath, rapid breathing or trouble breathing
• Chest pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough, especially if it’s a bacterial infection
• Intense fatigue
• Confusion or disorientation in older people
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (mycoplasma pneumonia)

Symptoms of pneumonia are usually severe enough to prevent a person from going about their usual activities. However, sometimes pneumonia causes only mild symptoms, so that the person is able to carry on their activities. This is sometimes referred to as “walking pneumonia” or “atypical pneumonia.”

Need help? Your pharmacist is there to help you!

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE PNEUMONIA?

Pneumonia is diagnosed based on symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and the results of chest X-rays. Sometimes, blood or sputum tests are done to identify the exact cause of the infection.to help you!

CAN PNEUMONIA BE PREVENTED?

Preventing pneumonia, much like warding off common respiratory infections, involves practicing good hygiene through regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals who are ill, as they can expel virus- or bacteria-laden droplets when they cough or sneeze.

Vaccination is another crucial measure to reduce the risk of pneumonia. Besides the childhood vaccines, certain vaccines can help lower the risk of specific pneumonia types:

• The pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine, recommended for older individuals and those with certain chronic conditions.
• Annual flu shots for all Canadians.
• The COVID-19 vaccine, in accordance with public health guidelines.

Your pharmacist can assist in determining which vaccines are necessary for you and whether you qualify for free vaccination programs in your province. Most pharmacies offer vaccine administration services.

HOW IS PNEUMONIA TREATED?

The treatment for pneumonia depends on the underlying cause of the infection and the severity of your symptoms.

Viral pneumonia is generally treated with support measures such as rest, hydration, and treatment of symptoms with over-the-counter medication, for example, acetaminophen to reduce fever.

Where pneumonia is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed together with support measures to relieve symptoms.

In severe cases, such as when breathing becomes very difficult, or when health is threatened because of other illnesses, hospitalization may be necessary.

It’s worth noting that coughing is the symptom that lasts the longest. It is not uncommon for it to persist for several days or even weeks after the other symptoms have disappeared.

YOUR PHARMACIST IS THERE FOR YOU!

Got questions about how pneumonia is treated or the services available at your pharmacy to reduce the risk of pneumonia? Speak to your pharmacist! They will be able to answer your questions, provide advice on ways to relieve your symptoms, or refer you to the appropriate medical resources as needed.