We’re all aware of the precautions to take for virus and flu season. However, an additional danger is that any of these other conditions can morph into pneumonia. Pneumonia claims the lives of about 50,000 Americans each year. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs on one or both lungs and may cause them to fill with fluid. It is caused by a variety of sources including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Many of the germs that can cause pneumonia are airborne. While our bodies
are generally efficient at blocking these germs, stress, lack of sleep, general depression, colds, or any weakness can allow them to sneak in. Pneumonia is the most serious for infants, people older than 65, and people with existing health challenges or weakened immune systems. It is particularly dangerous for people with heart failure or chronic lung problems.
Types of Pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia:
The most common form of bacterial pneumonia is pneumococcal pneumonia. Often it occurs after one
has had the cold or flu. It is contagious initially, but is no longer contagious after a couple of days of antibiotics. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, or walking pneumonia, is a milder form of pneumonia. It is contagious and airborne. Those diagnosed often don’t feel ill and are generally not hospitalized but can spread the pneumonia to others.
Viral pneumonia: Viruses, including COVID-19, can cause viral pneumonia. The flu is the most common viral gateway for pneumonia. Symptoms of viral pneumonia are initially similar to those of the flu but quickly affect the lungs and breathing. Most viruses generally spark only a mild form of pneumonia in healthy individuals. However, COVID-19 has shown that, because of its inherent propensity for lung damage, it can introduce a more severe bout with pneumonia. Older adults and people with serious illness or weak immune systems, ironically, may have fewer and milder symptoms, including a lower temperature rather than a fever. Mental acuity can be affected by a loss of oxygen to the brain, so any sudden change in mental awareness should be a cause for alarm.
Fungal pneumonia: Pneumonia caused by fungi is most common in people with compromised health. It is acquired through the soil or bird droppings. Ask your doctor if there are pneumonia-causing fungi in your area.
Prevention
Get vaccinated – Talk with your doctor about which might be best for your loved one.
Practice good hygiene – Make sure that your
loved one is washing hands and sanitizing
surfaces adequately, even in their own home.
Keep your immune system strong –
Get enough sleep, move or exercise regularly,
and eat a healthy diet.
Stay away from sick people – The distancing
we’ve all been doing is helpful but if someone
in the home is sick, isolate your immunocompromised loved ones as well.