Is bacterial pneumonia contagious. How does pneumonia spread from person to person. What are the risk factors for developing pneumonia. How can you prevent catching pneumonia. When does pneumonia stop being contagious after treatment begins. Who is most vulnerable to pneumonia infections.

Understanding Bacterial Pneumonia: A Serious Lung Infection

Bacterial pneumonia is a severe infection that affects the lung tissue, causing inflammation, fluid buildup, and the production of pus. This condition can significantly impair breathing and lead to various complications if left untreated. While several types of pneumonia exist, bacterial pneumonia is particularly concerning due to its contagious nature and potential for rapid spread.

Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, is one of the most common forms of bacterial pneumonia. It can affect various parts of the body, including the ears, sinuses, brain, and bloodstream, in addition to the lungs. Another prevalent type is caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which can result in a form of pneumonia often referred to as “walking pneumonia” due to its typically milder symptoms.

How does bacterial pneumonia differ from viral pneumonia?

While both bacterial and viral pneumonia affect the lungs, there are key differences:

• Cause: Bacterial pneumonia is caused by bacteria, while viral pneumonia is caused by viruses.
• Treatment: Antibiotics are effective against bacterial pneumonia but not viral pneumonia.
• Onset: Bacterial pneumonia often develops more suddenly and severely than viral pneumonia.
• Symptoms: Bacterial pneumonia typically causes higher fever and more severe symptoms compared to viral pneumonia.

The Contagious Nature of Bacterial Pneumonia

Many people wonder: Is bacterial pneumonia contagious? The answer is yes, bacterial pneumonia is indeed contagious. The bacteria that cause pneumonia can spread from person to person through various means, primarily through respiratory droplets expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The contagious period for bacterial pneumonia typically begins a few days before symptoms appear and continues for a short time after starting antibiotic treatment. However, the exact duration can vary depending on the specific type of bacteria causing the infection.

How long does bacterial pneumonia remain contagious?

The contagious period for bacterial pneumonia generally lasts:

• Before symptoms: 2-3 days
• After starting antibiotics: 24-48 hours
• Without treatment: Can remain contagious for weeks

It’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Transmission Methods of Bacterial Pneumonia

Understanding how bacterial pneumonia spreads is essential for prevention. The primary modes of transmission include:

1. Inhalation of respiratory droplets: When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets containing bacteria can be inhaled by others nearby.
2. Direct contact: Shaking hands with an infected person who has coughed or sneezed into their hand can transfer bacteria.
3. Indirect contact: Touching surfaces contaminated with respiratory droplets and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or eyes can lead to infection.

Close contact in poorly ventilated spaces increases the risk of transmission. This is why outbreaks can occur in settings such as nursing homes, schools, and hospitals.

Can you catch pneumonia from someone who has it?

Yes, it is possible to contract pneumonia from an infected individual. However, not everyone exposed to the bacteria will develop pneumonia. Factors such as the strength of one’s immune system, overall health, and the virulence of the bacterial strain play crucial roles in determining whether exposure leads to infection.

Risk Factors for Developing Bacterial Pneumonia

While anyone can develop bacterial pneumonia, certain groups are at higher risk. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take appropriate precautions and seek timely medical care when necessary.

Who is most vulnerable to bacterial pneumonia infections?

The following groups are considered high-risk for bacterial pneumonia:

• Infants and young children with developing immune systems
• Adults aged 65 and older
• Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS or cancer
• People with chronic lung diseases such as COPD, asthma, or cystic fibrosis
• Smokers and heavy alcohol users
• Individuals recovering from surgery or severe illnesses
• People with certain genetic disorders affecting the lungs or immune system

These high-risk groups should be particularly vigilant about preventive measures and seek medical attention promptly if they develop symptoms of respiratory infection.

Preventing the Spread of Bacterial Pneumonia

Preventing the transmission of bacterial pneumonia involves a combination of personal hygiene practices, vaccination, and general health maintenance. By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting or spreading the infection.

How can you prevent catching bacterial pneumonia?

To minimize the risk of bacterial pneumonia:

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections
• Get vaccinated against pneumococcal disease and influenza
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Manage chronic health conditions effectively

For those at high risk, additional precautions may be necessary, such as avoiding crowds during peak respiratory illness seasons or wearing a mask in high-risk environments.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Bacterial Pneumonia

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing bacterial pneumonia effectively. Healthcare providers use a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of pneumonia and identify the causative bacteria.

How is bacterial pneumonia diagnosed?

Diagnostic methods for bacterial pneumonia may include:

• Chest X-rays to visualize inflammation in the lungs
• Blood tests to check for signs of infection and identify the bacteria
• Sputum culture to analyze the mucus from the lungs
• Pulse oximetry to measure blood oxygen levels
• In severe cases, CT scans or bronchoscopy may be necessary

What is the standard treatment for bacterial pneumonia?

Treatment typically involves:

1. Antibiotics: Prescribed based on the suspected or identified bacteria
2. Rest: Allowing the body to focus energy on fighting the infection
3. Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to help loosen mucus
4. Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications to manage discomfort and fever
5. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotics and supportive care

It’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Long-term Consequences and Complications of Bacterial Pneumonia

While many people recover fully from bacterial pneumonia with proper treatment, the infection can lead to serious complications, especially in high-risk individuals. Understanding these potential consequences underscores the importance of prevention and timely treatment.

What are the possible complications of untreated bacterial pneumonia?

Untreated or severe bacterial pneumonia can result in:

• Respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation
• Sepsis, a life-threatening systemic infection
• Lung abscesses or empyema (pus accumulation in the pleural space)
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
• Chronic lung damage leading to reduced lung function
• Increased risk of heart problems, including heart attack and heart failure

These complications highlight the importance of seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms of pneumonia develop, especially for those in high-risk groups.

Vaccines and Their Role in Preventing Bacterial Pneumonia

Vaccination plays a crucial role in preventing certain types of bacterial pneumonia, particularly those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcal pneumonia). Several vaccines are available that can significantly reduce the risk of developing this common and potentially severe form of bacterial pneumonia.

Which vaccines are recommended for preventing bacterial pneumonia?

The following vaccines are recommended to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia:

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13): Typically given to children under 2 years old and adults 65 and older
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23): Recommended for adults 65 and older and younger adults with certain risk factors
• Influenza vaccine: While not specifically for pneumonia, it can help prevent viral infections that may lead to secondary bacterial pneumonia

These vaccines are particularly important for high-risk individuals, including older adults, young children, and those with compromised immune systems or chronic health conditions. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine which vaccines are appropriate based on age, health status, and risk factors.

How effective are pneumonia vaccines?

Pneumococcal vaccines have shown significant effectiveness in reducing the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease:

• PCV13 is approximately 75% effective in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease in adults 65 and older
• PPSV23 is about 60-70% effective in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease in adults
• Vaccination can also reduce the severity of pneumonia if infection occurs

While vaccines significantly reduce the risk, they do not provide 100% protection against all types of bacterial pneumonia. Maintaining good overall health and hygiene practices remains important even for vaccinated individuals.

Global Impact and Epidemiology of Bacterial Pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia represents a significant global health challenge, affecting millions of people worldwide each year. Understanding its epidemiology and impact is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies on a global scale.

What is the global burden of bacterial pneumonia?

The global impact of bacterial pneumonia is substantial:

• Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death in children worldwide, accounting for 15% of all deaths of children under 5 years old
• In 2019, pneumonia killed 672,000 children under the age of five
• Lower respiratory infections, including pneumonia, were the fourth leading cause of death globally in 2019
• The burden is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries

These statistics highlight the critical need for improved access to vaccines, antibiotics, and healthcare services in many parts of the world. Additionally, addressing underlying risk factors such as malnutrition and air pollution is essential for reducing the global burden of bacterial pneumonia.

How does the prevalence of bacterial pneumonia vary across different regions?

The prevalence and impact of bacterial pneumonia vary significantly across different regions:

• Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia have the highest incidence and mortality rates
• In developed countries, pneumonia primarily affects older adults and those with chronic health conditions
• Seasonal variations are observed in many regions, with higher rates during winter months
• Urbanization and air pollution contribute to higher rates in some rapidly developing countries

Understanding these regional differences is crucial for tailoring prevention and treatment strategies to local needs and resources. Global efforts to combat bacterial pneumonia must consider these variations to be effective.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Bacterial Pneumonia Management

The field of bacterial pneumonia research is dynamic, with ongoing efforts to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Recent advancements and future directions offer hope for better management of this significant health challenge.

What are some promising areas of research in bacterial pneumonia?

Current research focuses on several key areas:

• Development of new and more effective vaccines targeting a wider range of pneumonia-causing bacteria
• Exploration of novel antibiotic therapies to combat antibiotic-resistant strains
• Improvement of rapid diagnostic tests for faster and more accurate identification of causative bacteria
• Investigation of host-directed therapies that boost the body’s natural defense mechanisms
• Study of the lung microbiome and its role in pneumonia susceptibility and severity
• Development of strategies to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia in hospitalized patients

These research directions hold promise for improving outcomes and reducing the global burden of bacterial pneumonia in the coming years. Continued investment in research and development is crucial for advancing our ability to prevent and treat this serious infection effectively.

How might future treatments for bacterial pneumonia differ from current approaches?

Future treatments may include:

• Personalized antibiotic therapies based on rapid genetic analysis of the infecting bacteria
• Immunomodulatory treatments that enhance the body’s natural immune response to infection
• Nebulized antibiotics for direct delivery to the lungs, potentially reducing systemic side effects
• Combination therapies that target both the bacteria and the inflammatory response
• Novel antimicrobial agents that can overcome antibiotic resistance mechanisms

These innovative approaches aim to improve treatment efficacy, reduce side effects, and combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. As research progresses, we can expect more targeted and effective treatments for bacterial pneumonia to become available.

Transmission, risk factors, causes, and prevention

Pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue that can make it difficult to breathe due to inflammation, fluid, and pus. Viruses or bacteria, which are contagious, cause most forms of pneumonia.

Not all cases of pneumonia are contagious, however, and the period during which it can spread from one person to another depends on the cause of the infection.

Pneumonia refers to an infection in the lungs caused by certain germs, such as bacteria or viruses. When one person spreads germs that can cause pneumonia to someone else, the recipient can develop a range of respiratory infections, from mild cold symptoms to pneumonia.

A range of factors determine whether pneumonia is contagious:

Type of pneumonia

Share on PinterestContagious viruses or bacteria cause most forms of pneumonia.

Most cases of pneumonia are due to the spread of bacteria and viruses. Bacteria are living organisms that respond to antibiotics. Viruses are tiny strands of protein and genetic material that cannot be treated with antibiotics. Both viruses and bacteria are contagious.

Pneumonia often develops after a person has had a different infection, such as a head cold. This makes a person more vulnerable to other types of infections. An infection that develops in the lungs is called pneumonia.

Some organisms are more likely to cause pneumonia than others. One common example is pneumococcal disease, a bacterial infection that can cause ear infections, sinus infections, infections of the brain and blood, and pneumonia.

Another type of bacteria called Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause other forms of pneumonia. Mycoplasma bacteria are also contagious.

The influenza virus or the flu is a common cause of viral pneumonia. The virus spreads easily from person to person, causing a range of symptoms and conditions.

Less common causes of pneumonia include:

• inhaling food particles or contents from the intestinal tract
• some fungi

These forms of pneumonia are not contagious.

Length of infection

In most cases, infections are contagious for a few days before symptoms appear and for a few days after. The exact length of time a person is contagious depends on the type of microorganism causing the infection.

Some forms of pneumonia, such as pneumonia caused by mycoplasma, remain contagious for several weeks. If a person has pneumonia, they should speak to a doctor about how long the infection will be contagious.

Pneumonia treatment

People with bacterial pneumonia will usually be prescribed antibiotics that stop the infection from progressing. Pneumonia will usually stop being contagious a day or two after treatment begins.

A person is also considered contagious during a fever, so it is best to stay home from work or school until the fever is gone.

People who have been vaccinated against infections that can cause pneumonia, such as pneumococcal bacteria, are usually immune to those specific germs. Getting the vaccination can help prevent this type of infection from developing.

Share on PinterestOlder people and very young children may have weaker immune systems, which means they may be more likely to get pneumonia.

Although anyone can get pneumonia, some people are at greater risk. Pneumonia occurs when an infection develops within the lungs. It can cause complications with breathing and spread to other parts of the body such as the bloodstream.

People who are more likely to get pneumonia include:

• very young children and babies whose immune systems are not fully developed
• older people with weakened immune systems
• pregnant women
• people taking medications that suppress the immune system
• people with diseases that weaken the immune system, such as cancer, HIV, and AIDS
• people with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis
• people with lung and respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF), and asthma

People at risk of pneumonia need to be especially cautious around people who have recently had pneumonia or another respiratory infection.

Pneumonia is transmitted when germs from the body of someone with pneumonia spread to another person. This can happen in a variety of ways, including:

• Inhaling the infection. This can occur when a person with pneumonia coughs or sneezes and another person inhales the infected particles. This is more likely between people in close contact with each other, such as parents and children, or in poorly ventilated spaces, such as airplanes.
• Through the mouth or eyes. This can happen when a person touches a surface that an infected person has coughed or sneezed on. When a person with an infection coughs into their hand and then shakes another person’s hand, the second person can become infected if they touch their mouth or eyes without washing their hands.

Food particles and irritants from the intestinal tract can also cause pneumonia. This is called aspiration pneumonia and can occur when a person accidentally inhales these substances.

Aspiration pneumonia usually happens in people who have trouble swallowing, such as someone having a diagnosis of a stroke or other central nervous system conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease.

Fungal pneumonia typically develops when people inhale microscopic particles of fungus from the environment. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop this type of pneumonia.

Share on PinterestQuitting smoking may help to prevent pneumonia.

A number of strategies can prevent the spread of pneumonia. The single most effective way to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria is with frequent hand-washing, especially during the colder months.

People should wash their hands before eating, after using the bathroom, after touching someone else, before visiting people vulnerable to pneumonia, and upon returning home after going out in public.

Other strategies to prevent pneumonia include:

• staying up-to-date on all vaccinations, as well as getting a flu shot annually
• quitting smoking, since smoking makes the lungs more vulnerable to infection and affects the body’s immune system
• managing any chronic medical conditions, especially those that affect the immune system or lungs
• staying home from school or work when ill or with a fever

Most people recover from pneumonia without any lasting effects. In vulnerable people, pneumonia can be fatal. Worldwide, pneumonia accounts for 16 percent of deaths in children under 5. Older people and those with a weakened immune system are also more likely to experience serious complications.

Older people, people with serious illnesses, parents of newborns, and caregivers to sick people should make sure all visitors wash their hands. It is best that people with symptoms of a respiratory illness or fever do not visit a vulnerable person until their symptoms are gone.

Other strategies that can reduce the risk include:

• washing hands before eating, after touching people, and after going out in public
• disinfecting all surfaces in the home, particularly if someone has recently been sick
• keeping up-to-date on all vaccinations, especially any household members around infants who are too young to be vaccinated
• avoiding locations with inadequate air filtration during cold and flu season

Pneumonia killed more than 50,000 people in the United States in 2014. Despite this, around two-thirds of older adults do not get the recommended pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination to prevent pneumonia.

Pneumonia can be prevented, particularly in people who do not have chronic lung diseases. By avoiding sick people, staying home when ill, washing hands, and adopting basic health measures, such as getting vaccinated, it is possible to prevent this potentially fatal illness.

Is Pneumonia Contagious? Risks, treatment, and prevention

Bacterial and viral forms of pneumonia are contagious. Learn how pneumonia spreads.

Is pneumonia contagious? | Symptoms | How does pneumonia spread? | Types of pneumonia | COVID-19 and pneumonia | Who is at risk of pneumonia? | How long is pneumonia contagious? | prevention

Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs. Breathing becomes difficult for an infected person with pneumonia because air sacs in the lungs, also known as alveoli, begin to fill with fluid. Pneumonia can be life-threatening. Nearly 50,000 people in the US die from this illness every year, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Any respiratory infection can be concerning, especially with the looming threat of coronavirus. But is pneumonia contagious? Read on to learn who is at risk for contracting pneumonia and how to prevent it from spreading.

Is pneumonia contagious?

There are more than 30 causes of pneumonia. Influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are the most common causes of pneumonia in the United States, according to the CDC. Bacterial and viral forms of pneumonia are contagious. However, pneumonia caused by the inhalation of chemical irritants, fungi or aspiration pneumonia (inhaling food or liquid) is not contagious. 

How do I know if I have pneumonia?

Pneumonia symptoms may present within 24 hours or come on slowly. They could resemble cold- or flu-like symptoms. Common symptoms of pneumonia often include:

• Coughing 
• Fever
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pains
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cyanosis

The cough itself may be “wet” or “productive,” in which yellow, green, or even brown mucus is coughed up from the lungs. Hemoptysis (coughing up blood, bloody mucus, or phlegm) and coughing at night can also occur during a bout of pneumonia.

A high fever, upward of 105 degrees, can be a reaction to the body fighting an infection associated with pneumonia. Therefore, chills, sweating, and shaking are also possible. 

Chest pains, including sharp or stabbing feelings when coughing or trying to take a deep breath, are common once pneumonia develops. An individual with pneumonia may experience rapid or difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, particularly feeling like they can’t catch their breath. Furthermore, cyanosis (low oxygen in the blood) may occur, in which the lips, fingertips, or skin may turn blue from a lack of oxygen. 

RELATED: Bronchitis vs. pneumonia: Compare causes and treatments

How is pneumonia spread from person to person?

Contagious varieties of pneumonia are transmitted from person to person through airborne particles. Coughing and sneezing into the air can directly contaminate another person. Similar to the spread of a common cold, flu, and COVID-19, airborne particles can land on a surface and indirectly infect someone. Walking pneumonia is another way of saying mild pneumonia that might feel like a chest cold. However, if you are infected, even if you are asymptomatic, you can still spread the viruses or bacteria that can cause pneumonia.

Types of pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia

Some bacteria are more contagious than others. Mycobacterium and mycoplasma are known for how easily they can spread. Streptococcus pneumoniae causes most cases of bacterial pneumonia. This respiratory illness is contagious and likely to affect older people and individuals with impaired immune systems. 

Bacteria can find a way into the lungs and cause an infection, especially in individuals who are on respirators, suffering from other illnesses, or hospitalized. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is a term used in individuals who are already ill and get pneumonia while undergoing medical treatment in the hospital.

RELATED: FDA approves Xenleta to treat bacterial pneumonia

Viral pneumonia

Viral pneumonias are also contagious and are caused by viruses. Influenza or “the flu” is a common cause of viral pneumonia in adults. However, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronaviruses (COVID-19 is simply one type of the many coronaviruses) and the common cold can also cause pneumonia. In addition to fluid collecting in the lungs, lung tissue becomes inflamed and irritated with most pneumonias.

COVID-19 and pneumonia

COVID-19 can cause lung complications, such as pneumonia. According to Panagis Galiatsatos, M.D., M.H.S., a leading lung disease expert at John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, “The pneumonia that COVID-19 causes tends to take hold in both lungs. Air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid, limiting their ability to take in oxygen and causing shortness of breath, cough, and other symptoms.”  

COVID-19 pneumonia typically occurs in both lungs and has the ability to cause short-term lung damage. COVID pneumonia may cause increased heart rate and low blood pressure, in addition to symptoms like shortness of breath and cough. 

If you think your pneumonia may have resulted from COVID-19, it’s important to reach out to your medical care provider or local pharmacy for testing. 

Who is at high risk of pneumonia?

Cases of pneumonia can be mild to severe and even life-threatening, depending on one’s physical condition as well as the type of pneumonia they have. Anyone—young or old—can get this respiratory condition. However, some risk factors can make someone more susceptible to developing pneumonia:

• People 65 years of age and older
• Patients with a preexisting respiratory illness, such as COPD or asthma
• Underlying health problems, such as heart disease or HIV/AIDS
• Those with weakened immune systems, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy, recovering from surgery, taking immunosuppressant drugs, or breathing on a ventilator
• People with overall poor health 
• People who smoke or drink excessive amounts of alcohol

A medical professional can diagnose pneumonia with a physical examination or chest X-ray and prescribe medication as necessary.  

In general, children are more likely to get pneumonia than adults. Pneumonia is the number one cause of childhood deaths in the world. Although child mortality rates from pneumonia are significantly less in America because of available health care, pneumonia is the number one reason why children are hospitalized in the United States. Children 5 years old and younger are at higher risk for pneumonia than older children.

How long is pneumonia contagious?

The average time an individual is contagious from pneumonia is approximately 10 days. However, some cases of pneumonia (particularly pneumonia associated with tuberculosis) can be contagious for several weeks, depending on the form of pneumonia and the type of medical treatment recommended.

Antibiotics can significantly decrease the contagiousness of bacterial pneumonias. After starting antibiotics, an individual is still contagious for another 24 to 48 hours. Once the fever associated with the illness is gone, the pneumonia is less likely to be contagious. Coughing can continue for several weeks due to lingering inflammation, even after effective treatment. 

“Home remedies such as the use of honey to relieve coughing and zinc to boost the immune system, especially during a case of viral pneumonia,” can be helpful tools, according to Kate Tulenko, MD, the founder and CEO of Corvus Health. 

Getting medical treatment can reduce the duration of illness and the risk of spreading it to other people. If your fever returns or if lingering symptoms fail to go away, ask a healthcare provider for advice.

How to prevent pneumonia, and the spread of it

Some pneumonias are preventable. Vaccinations are available to prevent pneumonia caused by some viruses and bacteria. Also, living a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising can minimize the risk of contracting pneumonia. Routine exercise can increase lung health and resistance to infections. 

A healthy lifestyle also includes refraining from smoking and drinking too much alcohol to help keep the immune system healthy. Getting plenty of rest and drinking water is yet another way to help prevent illnesses like pneumonia.

Practicing thorough hand washing can also reduce your exposure to germs that can cause pneumonia, especially during cold and flu season. If you cough or sneeze, do your best to do so into a disposable tissue or the elbow of your sleeve, followed by washing your hands. Be sure to disinfect frequently used surfaces, such as telephones, countertops and doorknobs, to prevent the spread of germs that can cause pneumonia. 

Lastly, if people in your community are sick, do your best to practice social distancing when possible. Reducing your exposure to bacteria and viruses while living a healthy and active lifestyle can play an essential role in maintaining wellness. 

Pneumonia: causes, types, symptoms, prevention

Pneumonia: causes, types, symptoms, prevention

CAUSES OF PNEUMONIA

Often the cause is bacterial flora, especially Streptococcus pneumoniae. Bacterial pneumonia can develop after an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or the flu. In about 50% of cases, the causative agent of pneumonia is a virus. Viral pneumonia is more common in winter and is usually not as acute as bacterial pneumonia.

In some cases, the causative agents are mycoplasmas – microorganisms with the properties of both viruses and bacteria.

Other causative agents of pneumonia can be fungi and parasites, but this happens much less frequently.

SYMPTOMS OF PNEUMONIA

The symptoms of pneumonia can be similar to those of a cold or flu. Depending on the etiology, pneumonia can have various symptoms.

Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia can appear both acutely and gradually.
These include: fever, trembling, severe chest pain, profuse sweating, cough with thick, reddish or greenish sputum, rapid pulse and rapid breathing, cyanotic lips and nails.

Viral pneumonia is characterized by: fever, dry cough, headache, muscle pain, weakness, fatigue and severe shortness of breath.

Symptoms of pneumonia caused by mycoplasmas are often similar to those of bacterial and viral pneumonia, but are usually less pronounced.

COMPLICATIONS OF PNEUMONIA

– inflammation of the pleura (pleurisy),
– pulmonary edema,
– lung abscess (a cavity in the lung filled with pus),
– respiratory disorders.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Consult your physician immediately. Before that, you can take an antipyretic, suitable cough medicines.

Contact your doctor immediately or call him at home in the following cases:

– persistent cough, chest pain, fever;
– a sharp deterioration in the general condition after a cold or flu;
– chills, difficulty breathing.

If pneumonia is suspected in people over 65 years of age, in people with chronic or immunocompromised conditions, children and pregnant women, a doctor should be called immediately, who is likely to suggest hospitalization.

WHAT YOUR DOCTOR CAN DO

To confirm the diagnosis, a chest x-ray is performed. The causative agent is determined using a special analysis of blood and sputum. If a bacterial or fungal infection is detected, antibiotic therapy and antifungal drugs are prescribed.

In severe cases, the patient is referred to the hospital. In severe respiratory failure, oxygen therapy is carried out.

PREVENTION

– people over 65 and other risk groups are recommended to be vaccinated against certain types of streptococcus (it is one of the most common pathogens),
– a special vaccine has been developed for children at risk (for example, those with asthma),
– since pneumonia often appears as a complication of the flu, yearly flu shots are also a way to prevent,
– wash your hands with soap as often as possible, for 15-30 seconds to remove microorganisms that can cause pneumonia,
– maintain body resistance through a healthy diet, rest and regular exercise,
– do not smoke. Smoking reduces the natural resistance of the bronchi and lungs to respiratory infections.

Call an ambulance if a person begins to choke before your eyes, his nails and nasolabial triangle turn blue, heavy, hoarse breathing is heard, and difficulty swallowing.

Pneumonia in dogs and cats

Most people have heard of pneumonia in one way or another and know that it is pneumonia. Pneumonia is often accompanied by inflammation of the lower respiratory tract – the bronchi, and then the disease is called bronchopneumonia. With pneumonia, the pathological process develops in the lung tissue, where gas exchange occurs: the body absorbs oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. Inflammation of the lungs always carries a potential threat to the life of the animal. In most cases, the cause of pneumonia is an infectious process.

There are different classifications of pneumonia.

Depending on the pathogen, infectious pneumonia is divided into:

1. Fungal. It is mainly caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, the causative agent of cryptococcosis and is difficult to treat.

2. Viral. For example, with viral canine distemper or as a complication of respiratory viral infections of cats.
Parasitic. Inflammation is caused by helminths or migratory larvae of certain roundworms (nematodes) whose developmental cycle passes through the lungs.

3. Bacterial. As a rule, this is a secondary infection associated with bronchotracheitis, which often develops in small puppies when they are transported over long distances, or when feed masses enter the respiratory tract due to megaesophagus (total expansion of the esophagus).

In most cases, pneumonia is bacterial in nature. This means that a bacterial infection quite often complicates the course of the pathological process. Purulent exudate impregnating the lung tissue, an increase in body temperature is her calling card. And most importantly – a potential threat to the life of the animal. In general, the bacterial flora must be constantly monitored and suppressed.

This article is about the treatment of bacterial pneumonia.

– Cough, the leading clinical sign of inflammation in the lungs, is a very common symptom of many diseases in dogs and cats. Therefore, the diagnosis of pneumonia cannot be made only on the basis of the results of a clinical examination, an X-ray examination is required. Taking into account the data of the anamnesis of life and illness, it is possible to distinguish patients from the risk group, which should be examined most carefully.
Coughing in puppies purchased from a pet store, market, shelter, or picked up from the street can be a sign of both bronchotracheitis and canine distemper.

– Coughing dogs and cats with a high fever, lack of appetite, indifferent to the outside world must necessarily undergo an X-ray examination; many patients with pneumonia have no fever, and some even remain normal activity.

Dogs with suspected megaesophagus should be screened for pneumonia, and patients with a confirmed diagnosis should have periodic x-rays.

– Kittens with an acute upper respiratory tract infection in the absence of positive dynamics on treatment should undergo an x-ray examination.

It is important to remember that bacterial pneumonia is a secondary process that complicates the course of the underlying disease. Therefore, the main task of the doctor is to recognize this disease, make the correct diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment. And this may require additional diagnostic procedures and consultations of specialists, for example, a cardiologist, oncologist, etc.

The condition of an animal with pneumonia can be assessed as:

– Stable – the animal has a strong cough, but maintains a good appetite and normal activity. Such patients can be treated at home.

– Unstable – poor appetite, or lack of it, lethargy and apathy, requires the patient to be admitted to a hospital.

– Critical – the body does not receive the required amount of oxygen; the patient requires oxygen therapy and / or artificial ventilation of the lungs, as well as round-the-clock monitoring.

The aim of the treatment is to stabilize the general condition of the patient so that the owners have the opportunity to treat their pet at home, since the duration of therapy is several weeks. If the animal has a good appetite, he is prescribed antibiotics in tablets with food, a course of physiotherapy and periodic x-ray examinations to monitor the dynamics of the disease.

In the case of inpatient treatment, the following treatment measures are prescribed for the patient:

– Antibiotic therapy
In a hospital setting, antibacterial drugs are used in the form of injections.
Antibiotics work to kill bacteria. It is important that the active substance of the drug penetrates into pus and sputum, not all antibiotics are capable of this. Doctors try to prescribe a combination of antibiotics that complement each other’s action to cover the entire spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.
In each case, before starting antibiotic therapy, an antibiotic sensitivity test should be performed. To do this, you need to get a tracheal washout. The procedure is performed under sedation. The resulting secret is sent to a bacteriological laboratory, where it is sown on nutrient media, a pure bacterial culture is isolated and titrated for sensitivity to antibiotics. In parallel with the washings, the histology of the bronchi is taken, which is important for the patient’s prognosis.

– Physiotherapy
In this case, this is a special massage for better sputum separation. Rapid tapping of the chest contributes to the secretion in the lungs and its removal into the lumen of the bronchi. Once in the respiratory tract, the discharge provokes a cough, which ensures the rapid removal of sputum. This procedure must be carried out at least 4 times a day and as long as the animal continues to cough.
Light physical activity also contributes to a more efficient secretion. It is recommended to avoid overexertion due to respiratory failure. This issue requires an individual approach.

– Oxygen therapy
Its appointment is necessary for severe respiratory failure. For the same reason, artificial ventilation may be required. Room air contains about 20% oxygen, and in the gas mixture during oxygen therapy – 40%. A higher concentration is not recommended due to the toxic effect of pure oxygen on lung tissue. A patient requiring this type of therapy is usually in a critical condition.

– Infusion therapy (“droppers”)
Infusion therapy is carried out in animals that show signs of decompensation (shortness of breath, vomiting, loose stools, refusal to feed). Such therapy should be carried out in a hospital, since the condition of animals with respiratory failure is severe and it is important to carefully monitor such indicators as urine output per hour, an increase in shortness of breath. At home, this cannot be done, as there is a risk of developing pulmonary or cerebral edema.

Home care

– Once the patient regains normal appetite, treatment can be continued at home.