Ailments and Situations - Pneumonia |
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Description Pneumonia is characterized by a serious infection or inflammation of the lungs. It is also North America's 6th greatest killer, claiming the lives of over 50,000 people every year. The infection causes tiny air sacs in the lungs to be filled with pus and other liquids. As a result of this inflammation, oxygen cannot reach your bloodstream, making it very difficult for you to breathe. Pneumonia can present itself in three ways: - Bacterial pneumonia is an illness that attacks suddenly and can be very dangerous. It is characterized by a dry cough and rapid, laboured, breathing. It often attacks people who have just had surgery, people with chronic lung disease, and people who have viral infections. Bacterial pneumonia is often associated with chest and abdominal pain, as well as fatigue.
- Viral pneumonia leaves less signs of lungs being filled with fluid and cases of viral pneumonia are not too severe if treated properly. If not attended to, however, a second bacterial infection can set in. It is estimated that one third to one half of all cases of pneumonia are caused by viral infection. Most viruses attack the upper respiratory tract and some can cause pneumonia, especially in children.
- Fungal pneumonia is the least common of the three and is often associated with a weakened immune system. People with HIV, AIDS, cancer, or other illnesses that adversely affect the immune system are more susceptible to fungal pneumonia.
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