Community-Acquired Pneumonia FAQ
What are the common symptoms of pneumonia?
Common symptoms include cough, fever, shaking chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue.
How is pneumonia diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, chest X-ray, and sometimes blood tests or sputum culture.
Can pneumonia be prevented?
Yes, vaccination, good hygiene, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic conditions can help prevent pneumonia.
What are the risk factors for pneumonia?
Risk factors include age, respiratory infections, chronic diseases, and weakened immune systems.
Is pneumonia contagious?
Yes, pneumonia caused by bacteria and viruses can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets.
Can pneumonia be treated at home?
Mild cases can be treated at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
When to seek medical help for pneumonia?
Seek immediate medical help if experiencing severe symptoms such as high fever, rapid breathing, or chest pain.
How long does it take to recover from pneumonia?
Recovery time varies, but most people start to improve within a few days of starting treatment.
Is pneumonia more common in children or adults?
Children under 5 and adults over 65 are at higher risk of developing pneumonia.
Are there different types of pneumonia?
Yes, in addition to community-acquired pneumonia, there is hospital-acquired pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia, and walking pneumonia.
Can pneumonia lead to complications?
Yes, complications can include respiratory failure, sepsis, and lung abscess.
What should I do if I suspect pneumonia?
Contact a healthcare professional for an evaluation and discussion of treatment options.
Can people with pneumonia still go to work?
It is recommended to stay home to rest and prevent spreading the infection to others.
How effective are pneumonia vaccinations?
Pneumococcal vaccines are highly effective in preventing pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
Does smoking increase the risk of pneumonia?
Yes, smoking damages the lungs and increases the risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia.
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