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Pneumonia can be a Common Illness
 

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the airways and tissues of the lungs. It is due to infection. Bacteria, viruses, or chemicals cause the illness. It can follow or occur with a cold, flu, or bronchitis.

Pneumonia is more common in infants, the elderly, and in those who have low immunity to infection. The elderly do not always have symptoms such as a fever or cough when they have it. A change in their usual activities or functioning may be the only sign.

Symptoms include:
* Fever (101 to 106 degrees F.) and shaking chills.
* Coughing which may bring up yellow, green, rust-colored, or bloody mucus.
* Pain in the chest when breathing or coughing.
* Shortness of breath.
* Rapid and shallow breathing.
* Fatigue.
* Sweating and flushed color of skin.
* Loss of appetite or upset stomach.

Pneumonia is identified by evaluating the patient's breathing symptoms, chest X-ray, and mucus samples. Treatment may include bed rest, fluids, and drugs. Oxygen is given when needed. Severe cases require hospital care. Pneumonia can be life-threatening to the elderly. Others at risk are people already weakened by disease. In a normally healthy person this disease may feel like a bad cold.

Pneumococcal pneumonia, one type of pneumonia, may be prevented by a vaccine. One shot provides lifelong protection for anyone receiving it. People who are 65 or older should get this shot. Patients with compromised immune systems, chronic illnesses, or those without a spleen are also candidates for this shot.



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Copyright © 1997 National Health Enhancement Systems, Inc. (602) 230-7575. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change without notice.


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