What is pneumonia?

At Vishudh Kaya Clinic, we are committed to your well-being, providing specialized care and tailored treatment for pneumonia to ensure a swift recovery and restore your health.”

What are the types of pneumonia?

  • Based on Location:
  • Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP): Acquired outside healthcare settings, typically caused by common bacteria or viruses like Streptococcus pneumoniae and influenza.
  • Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia (HAP): Develops after 48 hours of hospitalization, often due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP): Occurs in patients on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours, commonly caused by MRSA or Pseudomonas.
  • Based on Immune Status:
  • Immunocompetent: Patients with normal immune function, typically affected by common bacteria or viruses.
  • Immunocompromised: Those with weakened immunity, such as from HIV or chemotherapy, are at higher risk for opportunistic infections like Pneumocystis jirovecii.
  • Based on Microbiology:
  • Viral Pneumonia: Caused by viruses like influenza or RSV, often less severe.
  • Bacterial Pneumonia: Caused by bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae, can be severe and require antibiotics.
  • Fungal Pneumonia: Often seen in immunocompromised individuals, caused by fungi like Cryptococcus.
  • Mycobacterial Pneumonia: Caused by mycobacteria, primarily Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
  • Parasitic Pneumonia: Rare, caused by parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii.

How can I tell if I have pneumonia versus the common cold or the flu?

Symptoms and Causes

CAUSES: –

2. Viral Pneumonia:

3. Fungal Pneumonia:

My cobacterial Pneumonia:

Parasitic Pneumonia:

 Aspiration Pneumonia:

Other Causes:

Symptoms of pneumonia in young children

Symptoms of pneumonia in adults

Pathogenesis:

1. Congestion (Hyperaemia):

2. Red Hepatization:

3. Gray Hepatization:

4. Resolution:

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of pneumonia?

The main causes of pneumonia are infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens. Bacterial infections, particularly from Streptococcus pneumoniae, are the most common, while viruses like influenza and RSV also contribute significantly, especially in vulnerable populations. Fungal infections can lead to pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals, and mycobacteria or parasites can also be responsible, though less frequently. These pathogens enter the lungs through inhalation or the bloodstream, leading to infection and inflammation.

How to avoid pneumonia?

Get vaccinated
Wash your hands properly. Maintain proper hygiene
Don’t smoke
Keep your immune system strong

When is pneumonia serious?

If you feel symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing., then you should consult a physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Who is at high risk for pneumonia?

Infants and Young Children: Due to underdeveloped immune systems.
 Older Adults: Especially those over 65, due to weakened immune defences.
 Chronic Disease Patients: Conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and COPD.
 Weakened Immune Systems: Such as individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications.
 Smokers and Alcohol Abusers: Due to lung damage and impaired immune function.
 Exposure to Pollutants: Long-term exposure to air pollution or toxic fumes.
 Recent Illness or Hospitalization: Including recent respiratory infections or ICU stays.