What are the Symptoms of Pneumonia?
October 16, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Pneumonia is likely what you meant. Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs, typically caused by an infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal). Symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the cause, overall health, age, and other factors, but common symptoms may include:
- Cough: A persistent cough that may produce phlegm (sputum), which can be yellow, green, or bloody.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, especially during exertion or with shallow breathing.
- Chest Pain: Chest discomfort or pain, often worsened by deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing.
- Fever and Chills: High fever, sweating, and chills are common symptoms of an infection.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, weak, or lacking in energy.
- Rapid Breathing: Breathing more rapidly than usual (tachypnea) due to the body’s attempt to get more oxygen.
- Rapid Heart Rate: Elevated heart rate (tachycardia), often in response to fever or the body’s effort to compensate for decreased oxygen levels.
- Confusion or Delirium: Especially in older adults or individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms may accompany respiratory symptoms.
- Sore Throat: In some cases, a sore throat may be present.
- Muscle Aches: Generalized body aches and muscle soreness.
- Headache: A persistent headache, often associated with the illness.
- Blue Tint to Lips or Nails (Cyanosis): This can indicate a lack of oxygen in the blood.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have pneumonia, especially if you have a high fever, severe symptoms, are having difficulty breathing, or if you belong to a high-risk group such as the elderly, young children, or individuals with weakened immune systems. Pneumonia can be a serious condition and requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, antivirals, or supportive care based on the cause and severity of the infection.