Treatment

Prevention and long-term control are key to stopping asthma attacks before they start.
Treatment usually involves learning to recognize your triggers, taking steps to avoid
triggers and tracking your breathing to make sure your medications are keeping
symptoms under control. In case of an asthma flare-up, you may need to use a quick-
relief inhaler.
Medications
The right medications for you depend on a number of things — your age, symptoms,
asthma triggers and what works best to keep your asthma under control.
Preventive, long-term control medications reduce the swelling (inflammation) in your
airways that leads to symptoms. Quick-relief inhalers (bronchodilators) quickly open
swollen airways that are limiting breathing. In some cases, allergy medications are
necessary.
Long-term asthma control medications, generally taken daily, are the cornerstone of
asthma treatment. These medications keep asthma under control on a day-to-day basis
and make it less likely you'll have an asthma attack. Types of long-term control
medications include:e
 Inhaled corticosteroids. These medications include fluticasone propionate
(Flovent HFA, Flovent Diskus, Xhance), budesonide (Pulmicort Flexhaler,
Pulmicort Respules, Rhinocort), ciclesonide (Alvesco), beclomethasone
(Qvar Redihaler), mometasone (Asmanex HFA, Asmanex Twisthaler) and
fluticasone furoate (Arnuity Ellipta).
You may need to use these medications for several days to weeks before
they reach their maximum benefit. Unlike oral corticosteroids, inhaled
corticosteroids have a relatively low risk of serious side effects.
 Leukotriene modifiers. These oral medications — including montelukast
(Singulair), zafirlukast (Accolate) and zileuton (Zyflo) — help relieve asthma
symptoms.
Montelukast has been linked to psychological reactions, such as agitation,
aggression, hallucinations, depression and suicidal thinking. Seek medical
advice right away if you experience any of these reactions.
 Combination inhalers. These medications — such as fluticasone-salmeterol
(Advair HFA, Airduo Digihaler, others), budesonide-formoterol (Symbicort),
formoterol-mometasone (Dulera) and fluticasone furoate-vilanterol (Breo Ellipta) —
contain a long-acting beta agonist along with a corticosteroid.
 Theophylline. Theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Theochron) is a daily pill that helps
keep the airways open by relaxing the muscles around the airways. It's not used as often
as other asthma medications and requires regular blood tests.
Quick-relief (rescue) medications are used as needed for rapid, short-term symptom
relief during an asthma attack. They may also be used before exercise if your doctor
recommends it. Types of quick-relief medications include:
 Short-acting beta agonists. These inhaled, quick-relief bronchodilators act
within minutes to rapidly ease symptoms during an asthma attack. They include
albuterol (ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, others) and levalbuterol (Xopenex,
Xopenex HFA).
 Anticholinergic agents. Like other bronchodilators, ipratropium (Atrovent HFA) and
tiotropium (Spiriva, Spiriva Respimat) act quickly to immediately relax your airways,
making it easier to breathe. They're mostly used for emphysema and chronic bronchitis,
but can be used to treat asthma.
 Oral and intravenous corticosteroids. These medications — which include prednisone
(Prednisone Intensol, Rayos) and methylprednisolone (Medrol, Depo-Medrol, Solu-
Medrol) — relieve airway inflammation caused by severe asthma. They can cause
serious side effects when used long term, so these drugs are used only on a short-term
basis to treat severe asthma symptoms.

 If you have an asthma flare-up, a quick-relief inhaler can ease your symptoms
right away. But you shouldn't need to use your quick-relief inhaler very often if
your long-term control medications are working properly.
 Keep a record of how many puffs you use each week. If you need to use your
quick-relief inhaler more often than your doctor recommends, see your doctor.
You probably need to adjust your long-term control medication.
Allergy medications may help if your asthma is triggered or worsened by allergies.
These include:
 Allergy shots (immunotherapy). Over time, allergy shots gradually reduce your
immune system reaction to specific allergens. You generally receive shots once a
week for a few months, then once a month for a period of three to five years.
 Biologics. These medications — which include omalizumab (Xolair), mepolizumab
(Nucala), dupilumab (Dupixent), reslizumab (Cinqair) and benralizumab (Fasenra)
— are specifically for people who have severe asthma.

Bronchial thermoplasty
This treatment is used for severe asthma that doesn't improve with inhaled
corticosteroids or other long-term asthma medications. It isn't widely available nor right
for everyone.
During bronchial thermoplasty, your doctor heats the insides of the airways in the lungs
with an electrode. The heat reduces the smooth muscle inside the airways. This limits
the ability of the airways to tighten, making breathing easier and possibly reducing
asthma attacks. The therapy is generally done over three outpatient visits.
Treat by severity for better control: A stepwise approach
Your treatment should be flexible and based on changes in your symptoms. Your doctor
should ask about your symptoms at each visit. Based on your signs and symptoms,
your doctor can adjust your treatment accordingly.
For example, if your asthma is well controlled, your doctor may prescribe less
medication. If your asthma isn't well controlled or is getting worse, your doctor may
increase your medication and recommend more-frequent visits.
Asthma action plan
Work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan that outlines in writing when to
take certain medications or when to increase or decrease the dose of your medications
based on your symptoms. Also include a list of your triggers and the steps you need to
take to avoid them.
Your doctor may also recommend tracking your asthma symptoms or using a peak flow
meter on a regular basis to monitor how well your treatment is controlling your asthma.
Prevention of asthma

1. Identify Asthma Triggers

Certain asthma triggers can set off a cascade of asthma symptoms. These include:
 Air pollution
 Allergies
 Cold air
 A cold or flu virus
 Exercise
 Sinusitis
 Smoke
 Fragrances
 Pets
 Dust mites
 Pests, such as cockroaches
It’s vital to learn to identify your asthma triggers and take steps to avoid them.

2. Stay Away From Allergens

If you have allergies and asthma, it’s important to keep your distance from allergens (things
you’re allergic to). Allergen exposure can increase the inflammation in your airways for a while,
making an attack more likely.

3. Avoid Smoke of Any Type

Smoke and asthma are a bad mix. Limit exposure to all sources of smoke, including tobacco,
incense, candles, fires, and fireworks. Don’t allow smoking in your home or car, and avoid
public places that permit it. If you smoke cigarettes, get help to quit. Smoking always makes
asthma worse.

4. Prevent Colds
Do what you can to stay well. Avoid close contact with people who have a cold or the flu,
because catching it will make your asthma symptoms worse. Wash your hands well if you handle
items that someone with a respiratory infection may have touched.

5. Allergy-Proof Your Home

Whether you’re at home, work, or traveling, there are things you can do to allergy-proof your
environment and lower your chances of an asthma attack:
Wash your pillow every week in hot water – at least 130 F – to kill mites. You can also use cold
or warm water with bleach. Wash sheets and blankets every week, too, as well as any stuffed toys
your child sleeps with. Use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to keep the humidity in your home
between 30% and 50%, and remove carpet from the bedroom.
Regular vacuuming can help keep dust mites at bay. But if you have asthma, you may want to
ask someone else to do it for you. A vacuum stirs up small particles that can irritate your lungs.
So, if possible, stay away while it's happening and for a short time afterward.
Control pests in your home. They're often where food is. Try these tips to get rid of them:
 Remove as many water and food sources as you can.
 Clean dishes, crumbs, and spills right away.
 Store food in airtight containers.
 Keep trash in a closed container.
 Vacuum or sweep areas that might attract cockroaches or mice every 2-3 days.
 Clean and get rid of clutter on counters, sinks, tables, and floors.

6. Get Your Vaccinations

Get a flu shot every year to protect against the flu virus, which can worsen your asthma for days
or weeks. Asthma makes you more likely to have complications from the flu, like pneumonia, and
to be hospitalized because of it. The CDC recommends pneumonia shots PCV15 or PCV20 for
adults age 65 or older. Adults ages 19-64 with certain medical conditions or risk factors should
also get one. Ask your doctor if you should.
You also have a higher chance of getting pneumococcal pneumonia, a common type of bacterial
pneumonia. And you need a Tdap vaccine to protect you against tetanus, diphtheria,
and whooping cough, along with a zoster vaccine to keep you safe from shingles.

7. Consider Immunotherapy Allergy Shots

If your doctor finds that you have allergies, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may help
prevent allergy symptoms and keep your asthma from getting worse. With allergy shots, the
doctor injects small doses of allergens under your skin on a regular schedule. Over time, your
body may get used to the allergen and respond less when you’re exposed. This can help keep
your asthma under control.

8. Take Asthma Medications as Prescribed

Long-term asthma medications are designed to prevent symptoms and attacks. You need to take
them every day, even if you don’t have symptoms. They’ll ease inflammation in your airways
and keep your asthma under control, so it’s less likely to flare up. If side effects bother you, talk
to your doctor about switching to another treatment.
9. Follow Your Asthma Action Plan
Take your meds, even when you feel OK. Keep an inhaler on you. If you notice symptoms,
check your plan for instructions on what medications to take. During an attack, the plan can tell
you what meds will help and when it’s time to call the doctor.

10. Use a Home Peak Flow Meter

The meter shows how well air is moving through your lungs. During an attack, your airways
narrow. The meter can let you know this is happening hours or days before you have any
symptoms. This gives you time to take the medications listed in your treatment plan and possibly
stop the attack before it starts.
CF

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs,
digestive system and other organs in the body.
Cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices. These
secreted fluids are normally thin and slippery. But in people with CF, a defective gene
causes the secretions to become sticky and thick. Instead of acting as lubricants, the
secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the lungs and
pancreas.

Although cystic fibrosis is progressive and requires daily care, people

with CF are usually able to attend school and work. They often have a
better quality of life than people with CF had in previous decades.
Improvements in screening and treatments mean that people
with CF now may live into their mid- to late 30s or 40s, and some are
living into their 50s.
Symptoms
Cystic fibrosis signs and symptoms vary, depending on the severity of the disease.
Even in the same person, symptoms may worsen or improve as time passes. Some
people may not experience symptoms until their teenage years or adulthood. People
who are not diagnosed until adulthood usually have milder disease and are more likely
to have atypical symptoms, such as recurring bouts of an inflamed pancreas
(pancreatitis), infertility and recurring pneumonia.
People with cystic fibrosis have a higher than normal level of salt in their sweat. Parents
often can taste the salt when they kiss their children. Most of the other signs and
symptoms of CF affect the respiratory system and digestive system.
Respiratory signs and symptoms
The thick and sticky mucus associated with cystic fibrosis clogs the tubes that carry air
in and out of your lungs. This can cause signs and symptoms such as:
 A persistent cough that produces thick mucus (sputum)
 Wheezing
 Exercise intolerance
 Repeated lung infections
 Inflamed nasal passages or a stuffy nose
 Recurrent sinusitis
Causes
In cystic fibrosis, a defect (mutation) in a gene — the cystic fibrosis transmembrane
conductance regulator (CFTR) gene — changes a protein that regulates the movement
of salt in and out of cells. The result is thick, sticky mucus in the respiratory, digestive
and reproductive systems, as well as increased salt in sweat.
Many different defects can occur in the gene. The type of gene mutation is associated
with the severity of the condition.
Children need to inherit one copy of the gene from each parent in order to have the
disease. If children inherit only one copy, they won't develop cystic fibrosis. However,
they will be carriers and could pass the gene to their own children.

Complications
Complications of cystic fibrosis can affect the respiratory, Hidigestive and reproductive
systems, as well as other organs.
Respiratory system complications
 Damaged airways (bronchiectasis). Cystic fibrosis is one of the leading causes
of bronchiectasis, a chronic lung condition with abnormal widening and scarring of
the airways (bronchial tubes). This makes it harder to move air in and out of the
lungs and clear mucus from the bronchial tubes.
 Chronic infections. Thick mucus in the lungs and sinuses provides an ideal
breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. People with cystic fibrosis may often have
sinus infections, bronchitis or pneumonia. Infection with bacteria that is resistant to
antibiotics and difficult to treat is common.
 Growths in the nose (nasal polyps). Because the lining inside the nose is inflamed
and swollen, it can develop soft, fleshy growths (polyps).
 Coughing up blood (hemoptysis). Bronchiectasis can occur next to blood vessels in
the lungs. The combination of airway damage and infection can result in coughing up
blood. Often this is only a small amount of blood, but it can also be life-threatening.
 Pneumothorax. In this condition, air leaks into the space that separates the lungs from
the chest wall, and part or all of a lung collapses. This is more common in adults with
cystic fibrosis. Pneumothorax can cause sudden chest pain and breathlessness. People
often feel a bubbling sensation in the chest
 Respiratory failure. Over time, cystic fibrosis can damage lung tissue so badly that it no
longer works. Lung function usually worsens gradually, and it eventually can become
life-threatening. Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death.
 Acute exacerbations. People with cystic fibrosis may experience worsening of their
respiratory symptoms, such as coughing with more mucus and shortness of breath. This
is called an acute exacerbation and requires treatment with antibiotics. Sometimes
 treatment can be provided at home, but hospitalization may be needed. Decreased
energy and weight loss also are common during exacerbations.

Prevention
If you or your partner has close relatives with cystic fibrosis, you both may choose to
have genetic testing before having children. The test, which is performed in a lab on a
sample of blood, can help determine your risk of having a child with CF.
If you're already pregnant and the genetic test shows that your baby may be at risk of
cystic fibrosis, your doctor can conduct additional tests on your developing child.
Genetic testing isn't for everyone. Before you decide to be tested, you should talk to a
genetic counselor about the psychological impact the test results might carry.

Treatment
There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, but treatment can ease symptoms, reduce
complications and improve quality of life. Close monitoring and early, aggressive
intervention is recommended to slow the progression of CF, which can lead to a longer
life.
Managing cystic fibrosis is complex, so consider getting treatment at a center with a
multispecialty team of doctors and medical professionals trained in CF to evaluate and
treat your condition.
The goals of treatment include:
 Preventing and controlling infections that occur in the lungs
 Removing and loosening mucus from the lungs
 Treating and preventing intestinal blockage
 Providing adequate nutrition

Medications
Options include:
 Medications that target gene mutations, including a new medication that combines
three drugs to treat the most common genetic mutation causing CF and is
considered a major achievement in treatment
 Antibiotics to treat and prevent lung infections
 Anti-inflammatory medications to lessen swelling in the airways in your lungs
  Mucus-thinning drugs, such as hypertonic saline, to help you cough up the mucus,
which can improve lung function
 Inhaled medications called bronchodilators that can help keep your airways open
by relaxing the muscles around your bronchial tubes
 Oral pancreatic enzymes to help your digestive tract absorb nutrients
 Stool softeners to prevent constipation or bowel obstruction
 Acid-reducing medications to help pancreatic enzymes work better
 Specific drugs for diabetes or liver disease, when appropriate

Medications that target genes

For those with cystic fibrosis who have certain gene mutations, doctors may
recommend cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators.
These newer medications help improve the function of the faulty CFTR protein. They
may improve lung function and weight, and reduce the amount of salt in sweat.
The FDA has approved these medications for treating CF in people with one or more
mutations in the CFTR gene:
 The newest combination medication containing elexacaftor, ivacaftor and
tezacaftor (Trikafta) is approved for people age 12 years and older and considered
a breakthrough by many experts.
 The combination medication containing tezacaftor and ivacaftor (Symdeko) is
approved for people age 6 years and older.
 The combination medication containing lumacaftor and ivacaftor (Orkambi) is
approved for people who are age 2 years and older.
 Ivacaftor (Kalydeco) has been approved for people who are 6 months and older.

 Airway clearance techniques — also called chest physical therapy (CPT) — can
relieve mucus obstruction and help to reduce infection and inflammation in the
airways. These techniques loosen the thick mucus in the lungs, making it easier
to cough up.
 Airway clearing techniques are usually done several times a day. Different types
of CPT can be used to loosen and remove mucus, and a combination of
techniques may be recommended.
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Your doctor may recommend a long-term program that may improve your lung function
and overall well-being. Pulmonary rehabilitation is usually done on an outpatient basis
and may include:
 Physical exercise that may improve your condition
 Breathing techniques that may help loosen mucus and improve breathing
 Nutritional counseling
 Counseling and support
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both
lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus (purulent material),
causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty
breathing. 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.

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

Newborns and infants may not show any sign of the infection. Or they may vomit, have
a fever and cough, appear restless or tired and without energy, or have difficulty
breathing and eating.
When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent fever of 102 F (39
C) or higher, or persistent cough, especially if you're coughing up pus.
It's especially important that people in these high-risk groups see a doctor:
 Adults older than age 65
  Children younger than age 2 with signs and symptoms
 People with an underlying health condition or weakened immune system
 People receiving chemotherapy or taking medication that suppresses the immune
system

For some older adults and people with heart failure or chronic lung
problems, pneumonia can quickly become a life-threatening condition.

Causes

Pneumonia happens when germs get into your lungs and cause an infection. The
immune system’s reaction to clear the infection results in inflammation of the
lung’s air sacs (alveoli). This inflammation can eventually cause the air sacs to fill
up with pus and liquids, causing pneumonia symptoms.

Several types of infectious agents can cause pneumonia, including bacteria,

viruses, and fungi.

Bacterial pneumonia

The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Other causes include:

 Mycoplasma pneumoniae
 Haemophilus influenzae
 Legionella pneumophila
Viral pneumonia

Viral pneumonia

Respiratory viruses are often the cause of pneumonia. Examples of viral

infections that can cause pneumonia include:

 influenza (flu)
 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
 rhinoviruses (common cold)
 human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) infection
 human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection
 measles
 chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus)
 adenovirus infection
 coronavirus infection
 SARS-CoV-2 infection (the virus that causes COVID-19)

Although the symptoms of viral and bacterial pneumonia are very similar, viral
pneumonia is usually milder. It can improve in 1 to 3 weeks without treatment.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source, people
with viral pneumonia are at risk of developing bacterial pneumonia.

es, Treatment, and More

0

Pneumonia is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

It leads to inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs.
These sacs, called alveoli, fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult
to breathe.

Both viral and bacterial pneumonia is contagious. This means they can spread
from person to person through inhalation of airborne droplets from a sneeze or
cough.

You can also get these types of pneumonia by coming into contact with surfaces
or objects that are contaminated with pneumonia-causing bacteria or viruses.

You can contract fungal pneumonia from the environment. It does not spread
from person to person.

Pneumonia is further classified according to where or how it was acquired:

 Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). This type of bacterial pneumonia is

acquired during a hospital stay. It can be more serious than other types, as
the bacteria involved may be more resistant to antibiotics.
 Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This refers to pneumonia that’s
acquired outside of a medical or institutional setting.
 Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). When people who are using a
ventilator get pneumonia, it’s called VAP.
 Aspiration pneumonia. Inhaling bacteria into your lungs from food, drink,
or saliva can cause aspiration pneumonia. It’s more likely to occur if you
have a swallowing problem, or if you’re too sedated from the use of
medications, alcohol, or other drugs.

Walking pneumonia

Walking pneumonia is a milder case of pneumonia. People with walking

pneumonia may not even know they have pneumonia. Their symptoms may feel
more like a mild respiratory infection than pneumonia. However, walking
pneumonia may require a longer recovery period.
The symptoms of walking pneumonia can include things like:

 mild fever
 dry cough lasting longer than a week
 chills
 shortness of breath
 chest pain
 reduced appetite

Viruses and bacteria, like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae,

often cause pneumonia. However, in walking pneumonia, the
bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae most commonly causes the condition.

Pneumonia stages

Pneumonia may be classified based off the area of the lungs it’s affecting:

Bronchopneumonia

Bronchopneumonia can affect areas throughout both of your lungs. It’s often
localized close to or around your bronchi. These are the tubes that lead from
your windpipe to your lungs.

Lobar pneumonia

Lobar pneumonia affects one or more lobes of your lungs. Each lung is made of
lobes, which are defined sections of the lung.

Lobar pneumonia can be further divided into four stages based off how it’s
progressed:

 Congestion. Lung tissue appears heavy and congested. Fluid filled with
infectious organisms has accumulated in the air sacs.
  Red hepatization. Red bloods cells and immune cells have entered into
the fluid. This makes the lungs appear red and solid in appearance.
 Gray hepatization. The red blood cells have begun to break down while
immune cells remain. The breakdown of red blood cells causes a change
in color, from red to gray.
 Resolution. Immune cells have begun to clear the infection. A productive
cough helps eject remaining fluid from the lungs.

Symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms can be mild to life threatening. They can include:

 coughing that may produce phlegm (mucus)

 fever
 sweating or chills
 shortness of breath that happens while doing normal activities, or even
while resting
 chest pain that’s worse when you breathe or cough
 feelings of tiredness or fatigue
 loss of appetite
 nausea or vomiting
 headaches

Other symptoms can vary according to your age and general health:

 Infants may appear to have no symptoms, but sometimes they may vomit,
lack energy, or have trouble drinking or eating.
 Children under 5 years old may have fast breathing or wheezing.
 Older adults may have milder symptoms. They can also experience
confusion or a lower-than-normal body temperature.
Causes

Pneumonia happens when germs get into your lungs and cause an infection. The
immune system’s reaction to clear the infection results in inflammation of the
lung’s air sacs (alveoli). This inflammation can eventually cause the air sacs to fill
up with pus and liquids, causing pneumonia symptoms.

Several types of infectious agents can cause pneumonia, including bacteria,

viruses, and fungi.

Bacterial pneumonia

The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Other causes include:

 Mycoplasma pneumoniae
 Haemophilus influenzae
 Legionella pneumophila

Viral pneumonia

Respiratory viruses are often the cause of pneumonia. Examples of viral

infections that can cause pneumonia include:

 influenza (flu)
 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
 rhinoviruses (common cold)
 human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) infection
 human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection
 measles
 chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus)
  adenovirus infection
 coronavirus infection
 SARS-CoV-2 infection (the virus that causes COVID-19)

Although the symptoms of viral and bacterial pneumonia are very similar, viral
pneumonia is usually milder. It can improve in 1 to 3 weeks without treatment.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source, people
with viral pneumonia are at risk of developing bacterial pneumonia.

Fungal pneumonia

Fungi from soil or bird droppings can cause pneumonia. They most often cause
pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems. Examples of fungi that
can cause pneumonia include:

 Pneumocystis jirovecii
 Cryptococcus species
 Histoplasmosis species

Risk factors

Anyone can get pneumonia, but certain groups do have a higher risk. These
groups include:

 infants from birth to 2 years old

 people ages 65 and older
 people with weakened immune systems due to:
o pregnancy
o HIV
 o the use of certain medications, such as steroids or certain cancer
drugs
 people with certain chronic medical conditions, such as:
o asthma
o cystic fibrosis
o diabetes
o COPD
o heart failure
o sickle cell disease
o liver disease
o kidney disease
 people who’ve been recently or are currently hospitalized, particularly if
they were or are on a ventilator
 people who’ve had a brain disorder, which can affect the ability to swallow
or cough, such as:
o stroke
o head injury
o dementia
o Parkinson’s disease
 people who’ve been regularly exposed to lung irritants, such as air
pollution and toxic fumes, especially on the job
 people who live in a crowded living environment, such as a prison or
nursing home
 people who smoke, which makes it more difficult for the body to get rid of
mucus in the airways
  people who use drugs or drink heavy amounts of alcohol, which weakens
the immune system and increases the odds of inhaling saliva or vomit into
the lungs due to sedation

Treatment

Your treatment will depend on the type of pneumonia you have, how severe it is,
and your general health.

Prescription medications

Your doctor may prescribe a medication to help treat your pneumonia. What
you’re prescribed will depend on the specific cause of your pneumonia.

Oral antibiotics can treat most cases of bacterial pneumonia. Always take your
entire course of antibiotics, even if you begin to feel better. Not doing so can
prevent the infection from clearing, and it may be harder to treat in the future.

Antibiotic medications don’t work on viruses. In some cases, your doctor may
prescribe an antiviral. However, many cases of viral pneumonia clear on their
own with at-home care.

Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal pneumonia. You may have to
take this medication for several weeks to clear the infection.

OTC medications

Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve

your pain and fever, as needed. These may include:

 aspirin
 ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
 acetaminophen (Tylenol)
SUBSCRIBE

Everything You Need to Know About

Pneumonia

Medically reviewed by Lauren Castiello, MS, AGNP-C — By Bree

Normandin — Updated on February 8, 2023
 Symptoms
 Causes
 Diagnosis
 Treatment
 Complications
 Prevention
 Is pneumonia curable?
 Pregnancy
 Kids
 Outlook
 Summary
Pneumonia Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
0 seconds of 1 minute, 5 seconds

Pneumonia is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

It leads to inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs.
These sacs, called alveoli, fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult
to breathe.

Both viral and bacterial pneumonia is contagious. This means they can spread
from person to person through inhalation of airborne droplets from a sneeze or
cough.
You can also get these types of pneumonia by coming into contact with surfaces
or objects that are contaminated with pneumonia-causing bacteria or viruses.

You can contract fungal pneumonia from the environment. It does not spread
from person to person.

Pneumonia is further classified according to where or how it was acquired:

 Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). This type of bacterial pneumonia is

acquired during a hospital stay. It can be more serious than other types, as
the bacteria involved may be more resistant to antibiotics.
 Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This refers to pneumonia that’s
acquired outside of a medical or institutional setting.
 Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). When people who are using a
ventilator get pneumonia, it’s called VAP.
 Aspiration pneumonia. Inhaling bacteria into your lungs from food, drink,
or saliva can cause aspiration pneumonia. It’s more likely to occur if you
have a swallowing problem, or if you’re too sedated from the use of
medications, alcohol, or other drugs.

Walking pneumonia

Walking pneumonia is a milder case of pneumonia. People with walking

pneumonia may not even know they have pneumonia. Their symptoms may feel
more like a mild respiratory infection than pneumonia. However, walking
pneumonia may require a longer recovery period.

The symptoms of walking pneumonia can include things like:

 mild fever
 dry cough lasting longer than a week
 chills
  shortness of breath
 chest pain
 reduced appetite

Viruses and bacteria, like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae,

often cause pneumonia. However, in walking pneumonia, the
bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae most commonly causes the condition.

Pneumonia stages

Pneumonia may be classified based off the area of the lungs it’s affecting:

Bronchopneumonia

Bronchopneumonia can affect areas throughout both of your lungs. It’s often
localized close to or around your bronchi. These are the tubes that lead from
your windpipe to your lungs.

Lobar pneumonia

Lobar pneumonia affects one or more lobes of your lungs. Each lung is made of
lobes, which are defined sections of the lung.

Lobar pneumonia can be further divided into four stages based off how it’s
progressed:

 Congestion. Lung tissue appears heavy and congested. Fluid filled with
infectious organisms has accumulated in the air sacs.
 Red hepatization. Red bloods cells and immune cells have entered into
the fluid. This makes the lungs appear red and solid in appearance.
 Gray hepatization. The red blood cells have begun to break down while
immune cells remain. The breakdown of red blood cells causes a change
in color, from red to gray.
  Resolution. Immune cells have begun to clear the infection. A productive
cough helps eject remaining fluid from the lungs.

Symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms can be mild to life threatening. They can include:

 coughing that may produce phlegm (mucus)

 fever
 sweating or chills
 shortness of breath that happens while doing normal activities, or even
while resting
 chest pain that’s worse when you breathe or cough
 feelings of tiredness or fatigue
 loss of appetite
 nausea or vomiting
 headaches

Other symptoms can vary according to your age and general health:

 Infants may appear to have no symptoms, but sometimes they may vomit,
lack energy, or have trouble drinking or eating.
 Children under 5 years old may have fast breathing or wheezing.
 Older adults may have milder symptoms. They can also experience
confusion or a lower-than-normal body temperature.

Causes

Pneumonia happens when germs get into your lungs and cause an infection. The
immune system’s reaction to clear the infection results in inflammation of the
lung’s air sacs (alveoli). This inflammation can eventually cause the air sacs to fill
up with pus and liquids, causing pneumonia symptoms.

Several types of infectious agents can cause pneumonia, including bacteria,

viruses, and fungi.

Bacterial pneumonia

The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Other causes include:

 Mycoplasma pneumoniae
 Haemophilus influenzae
 Legionella pneumophila

Viral pneumonia

Respiratory viruses are often the cause of pneumonia. Examples of viral

infections that can cause pneumonia include:

 influenza (flu)
 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
 rhinoviruses (common cold)
 human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) infection
 human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection
 measles
 chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus)
 adenovirus infection
 coronavirus infection
 SARS-CoV-2 infection (the virus that causes COVID-19)
Although the symptoms of viral and bacterial pneumonia are very similar, viral
pneumonia is usually milder. It can improve in 1 to 3 weeks without treatment.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source, people
with viral pneumonia are at risk of developing bacterial pneumonia.

Fungal pneumonia

Fungi from soil or bird droppings can cause pneumonia. They most often cause
pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems. Examples of fungi that
can cause pneumonia include:

 Pneumocystis jirovecii
 Cryptococcus species
 Histoplasmosis species

Risk factors

Anyone can get pneumonia, but certain groups do have a higher risk. These
groups include:

 infants from birth to 2 years old

 people ages 65 and older
 people with weakened immune systems due to:
o pregnancy
o HIV
o the use of certain medications, such as steroids or certain cancer
drugs
 people with certain chronic medical conditions, such as:
o asthma
o cystic fibrosis
 o diabetes
o COPD
o heart failure
o sickle cell disease
o liver disease
o kidney disease
 people who’ve been recently or are currently hospitalized, particularly if
they were or are on a ventilator
 people who’ve had a brain disorder, which can affect the ability to swallow
or cough, such as:
o stroke
o head injury
o dementia
o Parkinson’s disease
 people who’ve been regularly exposed to lung irritants, such as air
pollution and toxic fumes, especially on the job
 people who live in a crowded living environment, such as a prison or
nursing home
 people who smoke, which makes it more difficult for the body to get rid of
mucus in the airways
 people who use drugs or drink heavy amounts of alcohol, which weakens
the immune system and increases the odds of inhaling saliva or vomit into
the lungs due to sedation

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by taking your medical history. They’ll ask you questions
about when your symptoms first appeared and your health in general.
They’ll then give you a physical exam. This will include listening to your lungs
with a stethoscope for any abnormal sounds, such as crackling.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms and your risk of complications, your
doctor may also order one or more of these tests:

Chest X-ray

An X-ray helps your doctor look for signs of inflammation in your chest. If
inflammation is present, the X-ray can also inform your doctor about its location
and extent.

Blood culture

This test uses a blood sample to confirm an infection. Culturing can also help
identify what may be causing your condition.

Sputum culture

During a sputum culture, a sample of mucus is collected after you’ve coughed

deeply. It’s then sent to a lab to be analyzed to identify the cause of the infection.

Pulse oximetry

A pulse oximetry measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. A sensor placed
on one of your fingers can indicate whether your lungs are moving enough
oxygen through your bloodstream.

CT scan

CT scans provide a clearer and more detailed picture of your lungs.

Fluid sample

If your doctor suspects there’s fluid in the pleural space of your chest, they may
take a fluid sample using a needle placed between your ribs. This test can help
identify the cause of your infection.

Bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy looks into the airways in your lungs. It does this using a camera
on the end of a flexible tube that’s gently guided down your throat and into your
lungs.

Your doctor may do this test if your initial symptoms are severe, or if you’re
hospitalized and not responding well to antibiotics.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool
here.

Treatment

Your treatment will depend on the type of pneumonia you have, how severe it is,
and your general health.

Prescription medications

Your doctor may prescribe a medication to help treat your pneumonia. What
you’re prescribed will depend on the specific cause of your pneumonia.

Oral antibiotics can treat most cases of bacterial pneumonia. Always take your
entire course of antibiotics, even if you begin to feel better. Not doing so can
prevent the infection from clearing, and it may be harder to treat in the future.
Antibiotic medications don’t work on viruses. In some cases, your doctor may
prescribe an antiviral. However, many cases of viral pneumonia clear on their
own with at-home care.

Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal pneumonia. You may have to
take this medication for several weeks to clear the infection.

OTC medications

Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve

your pain and fever, as needed. These may include:

 aspirin
 ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
 acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Your doctor may also recommend cough medicine to calm your cough so you
can rest. Keep in mind coughing helps remove fluid from your lungs, so you don’t
want to eliminate it entirely.

Home remedies

Although home remedies don’t actually treat pneumonia, there are some things
you can do to help ease symptoms.

Coughing is one of the most common symptoms of pneumonia. Natural ways to

relieve a cough include gargling salt water or drinking peppermint tea.

Cool compresses can work to relieve a fever. Drinking warm water or having a
nice warm bowl of soup can help with chills.
Hospitalization

If your symptoms are very severe or you have other health problems, you may
need to be hospitalized. At the hospital, doctors can keep track of your heart rate,
temperature, and breathing. Hospital treatment may include:

 antibiotics injected into a vein

 respiratory therapy, which involves delivering specific medications directly
into the lungs, or teaching you to perform breathing exercises to maximize
your oxygenation
 oxygen therapy to maintain oxygen levels in your bloodstream (received
through a nasal tube, face mask, or ventilator, depending on severity)
SUBSCRIBE

Everything You Need to Know About

Pneumonia

Medically reviewed by Lauren Castiello, MS, AGNP-C — By Bree

Normandin — Updated on February 8, 2023
 Symptoms
 Causes
 Diagnosis
 Treatment
 Complications
 Prevention
 Is pneumonia curable?
 Pregnancy
 Kids
 Outlook
 Summary
Pneumonia Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More
0 seconds of 1 minute, 5 seconds

Pneumonia is an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

It leads to inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs.
These sacs, called alveoli, fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult
to breathe.

Both viral and bacterial pneumonia is contagious. This means they can spread
from person to person through inhalation of airborne droplets from a sneeze or
cough.

You can also get these types of pneumonia by coming into contact with surfaces
or objects that are contaminated with pneumonia-causing bacteria or viruses.

You can contract fungal pneumonia from the environment. It does not spread
from person to person.

Pneumonia is further classified according to where or how it was acquired:

 Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). This type of bacterial pneumonia is

acquired during a hospital stay. It can be more serious than other types, as
the bacteria involved may be more resistant to antibiotics.
 Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This refers to pneumonia that’s
acquired outside of a medical or institutional setting.
 Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). When people who are using a
ventilator get pneumonia, it’s called VAP.
 Aspiration pneumonia. Inhaling bacteria into your lungs from food, drink,
or saliva can cause aspiration pneumonia. It’s more likely to occur if you
have a swallowing problem, or if you’re too sedated from the use of
medications, alcohol, or other drugs.
Walking pneumonia

Walking pneumonia is a milder case of pneumonia. People with walking

pneumonia may not even know they have pneumonia. Their symptoms may feel
more like a mild respiratory infection than pneumonia. However, walking
pneumonia may require a longer recovery period.

The symptoms of walking pneumonia can include things like:

 mild fever
 dry cough lasting longer than a week
 chills
 shortness of breath
 chest pain
 reduced appetite

Viruses and bacteria, like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae,

often cause pneumonia. However, in walking pneumonia, the
bacteria Mycoplasma pneumoniae most commonly causes the condition.

Pneumonia stages

Pneumonia may be classified based off the area of the lungs it’s affecting:

Bronchopneumonia

Bronchopneumonia can affect areas throughout both of your lungs. It’s often
localized close to or around your bronchi. These are the tubes that lead from
your windpipe to your lungs.
Lobar pneumonia

Lobar pneumonia affects one or more lobes of your lungs. Each lung is made of
lobes, which are defined sections of the lung.

Lobar pneumonia can be further divided into four stages based off how it’s
progressed:

 Congestion. Lung tissue appears heavy and congested. Fluid filled with
infectious organisms has accumulated in the air sacs.
 Red hepatization. Red bloods cells and immune cells have entered into
the fluid. This makes the lungs appear red and solid in appearance.
 Gray hepatization. The red blood cells have begun to break down while
immune cells remain. The breakdown of red blood cells causes a change
in color, from red to gray.
 Resolution. Immune cells have begun to clear the infection. A productive
cough helps eject remaining fluid from the lungs.

Symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms can be mild to life threatening. They can include:

 coughing that may produce phlegm (mucus)

 fever
 sweating or chills
 shortness of breath that happens while doing normal activities, or even
while resting
 chest pain that’s worse when you breathe or cough
 feelings of tiredness or fatigue
 loss of appetite
 nausea or vomiting
  headaches

Other symptoms can vary according to your age and general health:

 Infants may appear to have no symptoms, but sometimes they may vomit,
lack energy, or have trouble drinking or eating.
 Children under 5 years old may have fast breathing or wheezing.
 Older adults may have milder symptoms. They can also experience
confusion or a lower-than-normal body temperature.

Causes

Pneumonia happens when germs get into your lungs and cause an infection. The
immune system’s reaction to clear the infection results in inflammation of the
lung’s air sacs (alveoli). This inflammation can eventually cause the air sacs to fill
up with pus and liquids, causing pneumonia symptoms.

Several types of infectious agents can cause pneumonia, including bacteria,

viruses, and fungi.

Bacterial pneumonia

The most common cause of bacterial pneumonia is Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Other causes include:

 Mycoplasma pneumoniae
 Haemophilus influenzae
 Legionella pneumophila

Viral pneumonia

Respiratory viruses are often the cause of pneumonia. Examples of viral

infections that can cause pneumonia include:
  influenza (flu)
 respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
 rhinoviruses (common cold)
 human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) infection
 human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection
 measles
 chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus)
 adenovirus infection
 coronavirus infection
 SARS-CoV-2 infection (the virus that causes COVID-19)

Although the symptoms of viral and bacterial pneumonia are very similar, viral
pneumonia is usually milder. It can improve in 1 to 3 weeks without treatment.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source, people
with viral pneumonia are at risk of developing bacterial pneumonia.

Fungal pneumonia

Fungi from soil or bird droppings can cause pneumonia. They most often cause
pneumonia in people with weakened immune systems. Examples of fungi that
can cause pneumonia include:

 Pneumocystis jirovecii
 Cryptococcus species
 Histoplasmosis species
Risk factors

Anyone can get pneumonia, but certain groups do have a higher risk. These
groups include:

 infants from birth to 2 years old

 people ages 65 and older
 people with weakened immune systems due to:
o pregnancy
o HIV
o the use of certain medications, such as steroids or certain cancer
drugs
 people with certain chronic medical conditions, such as:
o asthma
o cystic fibrosis
o diabetes
o COPD
o heart failure
o sickle cell disease
o liver disease
o kidney disease
 people who’ve been recently or are currently hospitalized, particularly if
they were or are on a ventilator
 people who’ve had a brain disorder, which can affect the ability to swallow
or cough, such as:
o stroke
o head injury
 o dementia
o Parkinson’s disease
 people who’ve been regularly exposed to lung irritants, such as air
pollution and toxic fumes, especially on the job
 people who live in a crowded living environment, such as a prison or
nursing home
 people who smoke, which makes it more difficult for the body to get rid of
mucus in the airways
 people who use drugs or drink heavy amounts of alcohol, which weakens
the immune system and increases the odds of inhaling saliva or vomit into
the lungs due to sedation

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by taking your medical history. They’ll ask you questions
about when your symptoms first appeared and your health in general.

They’ll then give you a physical exam. This will include listening to your lungs
with a stethoscope for any abnormal sounds, such as crackling.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms and your risk of complications, your
doctor may also order one or more of these tests:

Chest X-ray

An X-ray helps your doctor look for signs of inflammation in your chest. If
inflammation is present, the X-ray can also inform your doctor about its location
and extent.
Blood culture

This test uses a blood sample to confirm an infection. Culturing can also help
identify what may be causing your condition.

Sputum culture

During a sputum culture, a sample of mucus is collected after you’ve coughed

deeply. It’s then sent to a lab to be analyzed to identify the cause of the infection.

Pulse oximetry

A pulse oximetry measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. A sensor placed
on one of your fingers can indicate whether your lungs are moving enough
oxygen through your bloodstream.

CT scan

CT scans provide a clearer and more detailed picture of your lungs.

Fluid sample

If your doctor suspects there’s fluid in the pleural space of your chest, they may
take a fluid sample using a needle placed between your ribs. This test can help
identify the cause of your infection.

Bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy looks into the airways in your lungs. It does this using a camera
on the end of a flexible tube that’s gently guided down your throat and into your
lungs.

Your doctor may do this test if your initial symptoms are severe, or if you’re
hospitalized and not responding well to antibiotics.
If you need help finding a primary care doctor, then check out our FindCare tool
here.

Treatment

Your treatment will depend on the type of pneumonia you have, how severe it is,
and your general health.

Prescription medications

Your doctor may prescribe a medication to help treat your pneumonia. What
you’re prescribed will depend on the specific cause of your pneumonia.

Oral antibiotics can treat most cases of bacterial pneumonia. Always take your
entire course of antibiotics, even if you begin to feel better. Not doing so can
prevent the infection from clearing, and it may be harder to treat in the future.

Antibiotic medications don’t work on viruses. In some cases, your doctor may
prescribe an antiviral. However, many cases of viral pneumonia clear on their
own with at-home care.

Antifungal medications are used to treat fungal pneumonia. You may have to
take this medication for several weeks to clear the infection.

OTC medications

Your doctor may also recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve

your pain and fever, as needed. These may include:

 aspirin
 ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
 acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Your doctor may also recommend cough medicine to calm your cough so you
can rest. Keep in mind coughing helps remove fluid from your lungs, so you don’t
want to eliminate it entirely.

Home remedies

Although home remedies don’t actually treat pneumonia, there are some things
you can do to help ease symptoms.

Coughing is one of the most common symptoms of pneumonia. Natural ways to

relieve a cough include gargling salt water or drinking peppermint tea.

Cool compresses can work to relieve a fever. Drinking warm water or having a
nice warm bowl of soup can help with chills. Here are more home remedies to
try.

You can help your recovery and prevent a recurrence by getting a lot of rest and
drinking plenty of fluids.

Although home remedies can help ease symptoms, it’s important to stick to your
treatment plan. Take any prescribed medications as directed.

Hospitalization

If your symptoms are very severe or you have other health problems, you may
need to be hospitalized. At the hospital, doctors can keep track of your heart rate,
temperature, and breathing. Hospital treatment may include:

 antibiotics injected into a vein

 respiratory therapy, which involves delivering specific medications directly
into the lungs, or teaching you to perform breathing exercises to maximize
your oxygenation
  oxygen therapy to maintain oxygen levels in your bloodstream (received
through a nasal tube, face mask, or ventilator, depending on severity)

Complications

Pneumonia may cause complications, especially in people with weakened

immune systems or chronic conditions, such as diabetes.

Complications may include:

 Worsened chronic conditions. If you have certain preexisting health

conditions, pneumonia could make them worse. These conditions
include congestive heart failure and emphysema. For certain people,
pneumonia increases their risk of having a heart attack.
 Bacteremia. Bacteria from the pneumonia infection may spread to your
bloodstream. This can lead to dangerously low blood pressure, septic
shock, and, in some cases, organ failure.
 Lung abscesses. These are cavities in the lungs that contain pus.
Antibiotics can treat them. Sometimes they may require drainage or
surgery to remove the pus.
 Impaired breathing. You may have trouble getting enough oxygen when
you breathe. You may need to use a ventilator.
 Acute respiratory distress syndrome. This is a severe form of
respiratory failure. It’s a medical emergency.
 Pleural effusion. If your pneumonia isn’t treated, you may develop fluid
around your lungs in your pleura, called pleural effusion. The pleura are
thin membranes that line the outside of your lungs and the inside of your
rib cage. The fluid may become infected and need to be drained.
 Kidney, heart, and liver damage. These organs may be damaged if they
don’t receive enough oxygen, or if there’s an overreaction of the immune
system to the infection.
  Death. In some cases, pneumonia can be fatal. According to the
CDC, nearly 44,000 peopleTrusted Source in the United States died from
pneumonia in 2019.

Prevention

Prevention

In many cases, pneumonia can be prevented.

Vaccination

The first line of defense against pneumonia is to get vaccinated. There are
several vaccines that can help prevent pneumonia.

Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax 23

These two pneumonia vaccines help protect against pneumonia

and meningitis caused by pneumococcal bacteria. Your doctor can tell you which
one might be better for you.

Prevnar 13 is effective against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria.

The CDCTrusted Source recommends this vaccine for:

 children under age 2

 people between ages 2 and 64 with chronic conditions that increase their
risk of pneumonia
 adults ages 65 and older, on the recommendation of their doctor

Pneumovax 23 is effective against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria.

The CDCTrusted Source recommends it for:
  adults ages 65 and older
 adults ages 19 to 64 who smoke
 people between ages 2 and 64 with chronic conditions that increase their
risk of pneumonia

Flu vaccine

Pneumonia can often be a complication of the flu, so be sure to also get an

annual flu shot. The CDCTrusted Source recommends that everyone ages 6
months and older get vaccinated, particularly those who may be at risk of flu
complications.

Hib vaccine

This vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), a type of

bacterium that can cause pneumonia and meningitis. The CDCTrusted
Source recommends this vaccine for:

 all children under 5 years old

 unvaccinated older children or adults who have certain health conditions
 people who’ve gotten a bone marrow transplant

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source,

pneumonia vaccines won’t prevent all cases of the condition.

But if you’re vaccinated, you’re likely to have a milder and shorter illness as well
as a lower risk of complications.

Other prevention tips

In addition to vaccination, there are other things you can do to avoid pneumonia:
  If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking makes you more susceptible to
respiratory infections, especially pneumonia.
 Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
 Cover your coughs and sneezes. Promptly dispose used tissues.
 Maintain a healthy lifestyle to strengthen your immune system. Get
enough rest, eat a balanced diet, and get regular exercise.

Pneumonia in pregnancy

Pneumonia that occurs during pregnancy is called maternal pneumonia.

Pregnant people are more at risk of developing conditions like pneumonia. This
is due to the natural suppression of the immune system that happens during
pregnancy.

The symptoms of pneumonia don’t differ by trimester. However, you may notice
some of them more later on in your pregnancy due to other discomforts you may
be encountering.

If you’re pregnant, contact your doctor as soon as you start experiencing

symptoms of pneumonia. Maternal pneumonia can lead to a variety of
complications, such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Pneumonia in kids

Pneumonia can be a rather common childhood condition. Approximately 1 in 71

children worldwide get pneumonia worldwide each year, according to the United
Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The causes of childhood pneumonia can vary by age. For example, pneumonia
due to respiratory viruses, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus
influenzae is more common in children under 5 years old.
Pneumonia due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae is frequently observed in children
between the ages of 5 and 13. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the causes of
walking pneumonia. It’s a milder form of pneumonia.

See your pediatrician if you notice your child:

 is having trouble breathing

 lacks energy
 has changes in appetite

Pneumonia can become dangerous quickly, particularly in young children. Here’s

how to avoid complications.
lung cancer?
Lung cancer is a disease caused by uncontrolled cell division in your lungs.
Your cells divide and make more copies of themselves as a part of their
normal function. But sometimes, they get changes (mutations) that cause
them to keep making more of themselves when they shouldn’t. Damaged
cells dividing uncontrollably create masses, or tumors, of tissue that
eventually keep your organs from working properly.
Lung cancer is the name for cancers that start in your lungs — usually in
the airways (bronchi or bronchioles) or small air sacs
(alveoli). Cancers that start in other places and move to your lungs are
usually named for where they start (your healthcare provider may refer to
this as cancer that’s metastatic to your lungs).

symptoms of lung cancer?

Most lung cancer symptoms look similar to other, less serious illnesses.
Many people don’t have symptoms until the disease is advanced, but some
people have symptoms in the early stages. For those who do experience
symptoms, it may only be one or a few of these:
 A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse over time.

 Trouble breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea).

 Chest pain or discomfort.

 Wheezing.

 Coughing up blood (hemoptysis).

 Hoarseness.

 Loss of appetite.

 Unexplained weight loss.

 Unexplained fatigue (tiredness).

 Shoulder pain.

 Swelling in the face, neck, arms or upper chest (superior vena cava

syndrome).
 Small pupil and drooping eyelid in one eye with little or no sweating

on that side of your face (Horner’s syndrome).

What are the first signs of lung cancer?
A cough or pneumonia that keeps coming back after treatment can
sometimes be an early sign of lung cancer (though it can also be a sign of
less serious conditions). The most common signs of lung cancer include a
persistent or worsening cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, hoarseness
or unexplained weight loss.
Depending on where in your lungs cancer starts, some of these symptoms
can happen early (in stages I or II) but often they don’t happen until cancer
has progressed to later stages. That’s why it’s important to get screened
for lung cancer if you’re at higher risk.
How long can you have lung cancer without knowing?
Cancer can grow in your body for a long time — years — before you know
it’s there. Lung cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in early stages.
What causes lung cancer?
Lung cancer is caused by cells that keep dividing even though they
shouldn’t. While cell division is a normal process, all cells have a built-in off
switch that keeps them from dividing into more cells (senescence) or
causes them to die off (apoptosis) when necessary. The off switch is
triggered when a cell has divided too many times or has too many changes
(mutations).
Cancer cells are normal cells in your body that have gained mutations that
remove the off switch. Cells keep multiplying, unchecked, and interfere
with your normal cells. Cancer cells can get into your bloodstream
or lymph nodes and move to other places in your body, spreading the
damage.
Risk factors for lung cancer
While there are many factors that can increase your risk of lung cancer,
smoking any kind of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars or pipes
is the biggest single risk factor. Experts estimate that 80% of lung cancer
deaths are smoking-related.
Other risk factors include:
 Being exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke.
  Being exposed to harmful substances, like air pollution, radon,
asbestos, uranium, diesel exhaust, silica, coal products and others.
 Having previous radiation treatments to your chest (for instance, for
breast cancer or lymphoma).
 Having a family history of lung cancer.
How is lung cancer treated?
Treatments for lung cancer are designed to get rid of cancer in your body
or slow down its growth. Treatments can remove cancerous cells, help to
destroy them or keep them from multiplying or teach your immune system
to fight them. Some therapies are also used to reduce symptoms and
relieve pain. Your treatment will depend on the type of lung cancer you
have, where it is, how far it’s spread and many other factors.
What medications/treatments are used in lung cancer?
Lung cancer treatments include surgery, radiofrequency ablation,
radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy and
immunotherapy.
Surgery
NSCLC that hasn’t spread and SCLC that’s limited to a single tumor can be
eligible for surgery. Your surgeon might remove the tumor and a small
amount of healthy tissue around it to make sure they don’t leave any
cancer cells behind. Sometimes they have to remove all or part of your
lung (resection) for the best chance that the cancer won’t come back.
Radiofrequency ablation
NSCLC tumors near the outer edges of your lungs are sometimes treated
with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). RFA uses high-energy radio waves to
heat and destroy cancer cells.
Radiation therapy
Radiation uses high energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used by
itself or to help make surgery more effective. Radiation can also be used as
palliative care, to shrink tumors and relieve pain. It’s used in both NSCLC
and SCLC.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is often a combination of multiple medications designed to
stop cancer cells from growing. It can be given before or after surgery or in
combination with other types of medication, like immunotherapy.
Chemotherapy for lung cancer is usually given through an IV.
Targeted drug therapy
In some people with NSCLC, lung cancer cells have specific changes
(mutations) that help the cancer grow. Special drugs target these
mutations to try to slow down or destroy cancer cells. Other drugs,
called angiogenesis inhibitors, can keep the tumor from creating new
blood vessels, which the cancer cells need to grow.
Immunotherapy
Our bodies usually recognize cells that are damaged or harmful and
destroy them. Cancer has ways to hide from the immune system to keep
from being destroyed. Immunotherapy reveals cancer cells to your
immune system so your own body can fight cancer.
How can I prevent lung cancer?
Since we don’t know what causes most cancers for sure, the only
preventative measures are focused on reducing your risk. Some ways to
reduce your risk include:
 Don’t smoke or quit smoking if you do. Your risk of lung cancer starts

coming down within five years of quitting.

 Avoid second hand smoke and other substances that can harm your

lungs.
 Eat a healthy diet and maintain a weight that’s healthy for you. Some

studies suggest that eating fruits and vegetables (two to six-and-a-

half cups per day) can help reduce your risk of cancer.
 Get screened for lung cancer if you’re at high risk.
What can I expect if I have lung cancer?
What to expect after a lung cancer diagnosis depends on many factors. For
some with early stage cancer, your provider will remove the cancer and
you’ll need follow up screenings for several years. For many others, it’s a
process that evolves over time. It may mean doing one type of treatment
until it stops being effective, then moving on to another type.
Does lung cancer spread quickly?
How fast lung cancer spreads depends on the type. Of the main types,
small cell lung cancer tends to spread faster than non-small cell lung
cancer. By the time lung cancer is found, it may have already started
spreading to lymph nodes or other organs.
Can lung cancer be cured?
Some types of lung cancer can be considered cured if diagnosed before
they spread, though experts don’t often use the word “cured” to describe
cancer. More common terms are “remission” or “no evidence of disease”
(NED). If you’re in remission or NED for five years or more, you might be
considered cured. There’s always a small chance that cancer cells could
come back.
What is the survival rate of lung cancer?
The survival rate of lung cancer depends greatly on how far cancer has
spread when it’s diagnosed, how it responds to treatment, your overall
health and other factors. For instance, for small tumors that haven’t
spread to the lymph nodes, the survival rates are 90% for tumors that are
smaller than 1 cm, 85% for tumors between 1 and 2 cm, and 80% for
tumors between 2 and 3 cm.
The relative five-year survival rate for lung cancer diagnosed at any stage is
22.9%. The five-year relative survival rates by how much cancer has spread
is:
 61.2% (64% for NSCLC, 29% for SCLC) for cancer that’s confined to

one lung (localized).

 33.5% (37% for NSCLC, 18% for SCLC) for cancer that’s spread to the

lymph nodes (regional).

 7% (26% for NSCLC, 3% for SCLC) for cancer that’s spread to other

organs (distant).
Side effects of the treatment
Side effects of lung cancer treatment depend on the type of treatment.
Your provider can tell you what side effects to expect, and what
complications to look out for, for your specific treatment.
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How is lung cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosing lung cancer can be a multi-step process. Your first visit to a
healthcare provider will usually involve them listening to your symptoms,
asking you about your health history and performing a physical exam (like
listening to your heart and lungs). Since lung cancer symptoms are similar
to many other, more common illnesses, you provider may start by
getting blood tests and a chest X-ray.
If your provider suspects you could have lung cancer, your next steps in
diagnosis would usually involve more imaging tests, like a CT scan, and
then a biopsy. Other tests include using a PET/CT scan to see if cancer has
spread, and tests of cancerous tissue from a biopsy to help determine the
best kind of treatment.