Pneumonia

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs, called alveoli, in one or both lungs. These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, making it harder to breathe and deliver oxygen to the body.

Pneumonia can develop suddenly or gradually. Some cases are mild and can be treated at home, while others may require hospitalization. The severity depends on the type of infection, the person’s age and overall health.

You may also hear the term walking pneumonia. This is a milder form of pneumonia, often caused by bacteria, where symptoms are less severe but still require medical care.

What Causes Pneumonia?

Pneumonia occurs when germs enter the lungs and overwhelm the body’s defenses.

Common causes include:

• Bacteria: Such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia
• Viruses: Including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19
• Fungi: More common in people with weakened immune systems
• Aspiration: Breathing food, liquid or vomit into the lungs
  
  

Pneumonia can be contagious when caused by bacteria or viruses. Germs spread through coughing, sneezing or close contact, though not everyone exposed will develop pneumonia.

Common Pneumonia Symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms can vary by age and cause, but often include:

• Cough, which may produce mucus
• Fever, chills or sweating
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• Chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Confusion, especially in older adults
  
  

Walking pneumonia symptoms may be milder and include a lingering cough, low-grade fever and fatigue.

How Is Pneumonia Diagnosed?

A health care provider will evaluate symptoms, medical history and risk factors to diagnose pneumonia.

Diagnostic steps may include:

• Physical exam: Listening to the lungs for abnormal sounds
• Chest X-ray: To confirm lung infection and determine severity
• Blood tests: To identify infection and assess immune response
• Sputum test: To determine the specific germ causing pneumonia
• Pulse oximetry: To measure oxygen levels in the blood
  
  

Accurate pneumonia diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment plan.

How Is Pneumonia Treated?

Pneumonia treatment depends on the cause, severity and patient risk factors.

Treatment options may include:

• Antibiotics: For bacterial pneumonia
• Antiviral medications: For certain viral infections
• Fever reducers and pain relievers: To manage symptoms
• Fluids and rest: To support recovery
• Oxygen therapy: For patients with low oxygen levels
  
  

Most people begin to feel better within a few days of starting treatment, but fatigue and cough may last several weeks. Severe cases may require hospital care and intravenous medications.

Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, there are effective ways to lower your risk.

Helpful pneumonia prevention strategies include:

• Staying up to date on recommended vaccines, including pneumonia and flu vaccines
• Practicing good hand hygiene
• Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
• Managing chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease
• Seeking prompt care for respiratory infections
  
  

Talk with your health care provider about vaccines and preventive steps based on your age and health status.

Pneumonia is a common but potentially serious condition. Early recognition of symptoms and timely medical care are key to recovery.

If you or a loved one experiences symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing or chest pain, seek medical attention promptly.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Virtual Clinic – Schedule through MyChart or click Here to learn more about Primary Care On Demand.

MD Express Urgent Care – Click Here to find a location near you for after-hours care or when your primary care provider is not available. Open 9am-9pm, Mon-Sun.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368