Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs in one or both lungs. The infection can range from mild to severe and is especially dangerous for infants, young children, and older adults. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about pneumonia with a search online right now, which could help you spot early symptoms.
Chest Pain
One of the most common symptoms of pneumonia is chest pain. The pain may be sharp or dull and can be felt in one or both sides of the chest. The pain may get worse when you breathe deeply or cough. Chest pain is usually caused by inflammation in the lung tissue or pleura, the thin membrane that covers the lungs.
Coughing
Coughing is another common symptom of pneumonia. You may have a dry cough or produce clear, green, yellow, or bloody mucus when you cough. Coughing is a way for the body to get rid of the infection and clear the airways.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is a common symptom of pneumonia, especially in older adults. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath or that you’re out of breath after only a little exertion. Shortness of breath is caused by inflammation and swelling in the airways and lung tissue.
Fever and Chills
Fever and chills are common symptoms of pneumonia. Your body may try to fight off the infection by raising its temperature. You may also experience chills, which are caused by your body shivering to raise its temperature. If you have a fever, you may also experience sweating and headaches.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of pneumonia. You may feel tired and weak, even if you haven’t done much. Fatigue is caused by the body’s immune system working hard to fight off the infection.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are less common symptoms of pneumonia, but they can occur. These symptoms may be caused by the infection itself or by medications used to treat the infection. If you experience nausea and vomiting, it’s important to stay hydrated and talk to your healthcare provider.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is a common symptom of pneumonia. You may not feel like eating or may feel full after eating only a small amount. Loss of appetite is caused by the body’s immune system working hard to fight off the infection.
Sweating
Sweating is a common symptom of pneumonia, especially at night. If you have a fever, you may sweat more as your body tries to cool down. If you experience excessive sweating, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider.
Confusion
Confusion is a less common symptom of pneumonia, but it can occur, especially in older adults. Confusion may be caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain or by the infection itself. If you or someone you know experiences confusion, it’s important to seek medical attention.
Consider Your Symptoms
If you experience any of these symptoms of pneumonia, it’s important to seek medical attention. Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, antiviral medications, or other treatments depending on the cause and severity of the infection. In addition, getting vaccinated against certain types of pneumonia can help prevent the infection.