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Pneumonia is a common lung infection where the air sacks of the lungs are inflamed. These sacs may also be filled with cellular debris, pus, and fluid.
Bacterial Pneumonia may involve just one small section of the lung or might include both lungs. The condition can make it tough for your body to get sufficient oxygen to your blood which may cause cells not to function well.
This type of pneumonia can be mild or serious. The severity of your condition may depend on:
Bacterial pneumonia is caused by bacteria that enter the lungs and multiply. It can develop independently or as a result of another illness, such as a cold or the flu.
People who are at higher risk for pneumonia include:
People who have these conditions may also be at an increased risk for pneumonia:
Doctors classify bacterial pneumonia based on whether it developed inside or outside a hospital.
The most common symptoms of bacterial pneumonia are:
Older adults will share all the symptoms with younger adults, but are much more likely to experience dizziness and confusion. Older adults may also be less likely to have a fever.
During your doctor’s first visit, he or she will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. A stethoscope will be used to listen to your lungs for abnormal crackling or bubbling sounds that could indicate pneumonia.
If pneumonia is suspected, your doctor may recommend the following tests:
If you’re older than age 65 and have serious symptoms or health conditions, your doctor might order additional tests. These may include:
As part of pneumonia treatment, the infection must be cured and complications avoided. In most cases, community-acquired pneumonia can be treated at home with medication. Symptoms usually go away within a few days or weeks, but the tiredness can last for a month or more.
Medications recommended for the treatment of Bacterial Pneumonia include: