Things You Should Know About Pneumonia
By Stephen R. Farris
Not only is the cold and flu season just around the corner, there's one other issue that sends about 1.3 million Americans to the emergency room annually, and that is pneumonia.
Pneumonia is infectious to the lungs, causing them to fill with water and/or pus. The symptoms of pneumonia vary from a dry cough, fever, chills, and fatigue. Very similar to the flu, however, much worse is nearly 50,000 people die each year from being infected with pneumonia.
Some of the more intense symptoms include nausea, throwing up, loose bowels, chest pain, and shortness of breath. When it gets to this point, you should seek medical help.
Let's take a look at some of the other things you should know about pneumonia.
Is it Bacterial, Viral, or a Fungal Infection?
The answer to that is all of the above. Anyone of those could result in a pneumonia infection. Sometimes the infection can turn into severe infections if not caught in earlier stages.
Who Is at Risk?
Pneumonia doesn't play favorites, as it can infect both young people and adults. Adults over the age of 65 are at more risk.
Are Vaccines Available?
Yes. There are vaccines available to help prevent pneumonia. PCV13 is recommended for younger children, and protects against 13 types of pneumonia bacteria. PCV23 is given to older adults, protecting against 23 types of pneumonia bacteria. Statistics point out that about a third of adults over the age of 65 have not received vaccinations to help prevent pneumonia.
Can Pneumonia Be Passed From Person to Person?
Yes, it is contagious and can be spread to others from coughing and sneezing, where droplets are released in the air.
Severe cases of pneumonia infection usually require treatment in a hospital. Less severe cases can be treated with prescription antibiotics, as well as over-the-counter medications. If you're experiencing fever or pain, experts suggest trying Tylenol, Motrin, or Advil. For a cough keeping you awake at night, you might try something that has dextromethorphan. Most cold and flu medicine contains dextromethorphan.
However, if you feel your symptoms may be pneumonia, it's best to get checked out by a medical professional so they can examine you and determine what your condition could be, and get you started on medication to combat your symptoms.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temple, Tex.