With the number of colds, allergies, COVID, and RSV on the rise this holiday season, it’s
important to be aware of the possibility that a respiratory illness could develop into another
condition- pneumonia.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a type of lung infection that can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi in the air
around you or on surfaces you touch. The infection causes the tissues in parts of one or both
lungs to become inflamed, swollen, irritated, or filled with fluid, making breathing more
difficult. It may occur spontaneously, though it occasionally follows other illnesses. It affects
millions of people worldwide. While healthy people can contract it, it is a more serious problem
in infants, young children, adults over the age of 65, those with weakened immune systems, and
those with other medical conditions, especially ones involving the lungs and heart.
What To Look For?
Depending on the person and the type of pneumonia, symptoms can range from mild to
extremely severe. Generally, symptoms present similarly to those of a cold or flu, but more
severe, and increasingly worse. The following are common symptoms of pneumonia:
- Coughing (dry or with mucus)
- Fever
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Pain in the chest while breathing
- Chills or sweats
- Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headache
Is It Contagious?
Some types of pneumonia are contagious, and spread when people who are infected cough,
sneeze, or talk, sending respiratory droplets into the air. These droplets can be inhaled by close
contacts. It’s also possible, though less likely, to contract pneumonia from touching an object or
surface that has the germ on it, and then touching your nose or mouth. Generally with viral or
bacterial pneumonia, the contagious period ends once your fever does. Pneumonia caused by
fungi are not contagious.
How Do You Know If It’s Pneumonia?
If you think you have pneumonia, it’s important to see a physician. Along with a physical exam
and lung evaluation, pneumonia is usually diagnosed with a chest x-ray. Blood tests, a chest CT
or other tests may be ordered to confirm pneumonia and rule out other causes of your symptoms.
How Is Pneumonia Treated?
Your physician may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to aid in your recovery. It’s also
helpful to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. It may take several weeks, or a few months to feel
back to normal, depending on the cause of the pneumonia and its severity. If symptoms do not
fully clear up after a few weeks, or are getting worse, follow up with your physician.
How Can I Prevent Pneumonia?
Follow these best healthy living practices to avoid contracting or spreading the infection:
? Washing your hands often with soap and warm water
? Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow, rather than into your hand
? Clean high traffic surfaces and materials like door handles and faucets regularly
? Don’t smoke
About Patient First
All Patient First Medical Centers have Digital X-Ray facilities to help diagnose pneumonia, and are
open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year, including Christmas and New Year’s Day. Patient First
provides non-appointment urgent care for routine injuries and illnesses, as well as primary care for
patients who do not have a regular physician. In addition to x-rays, every Patient First center has on-
site laboratories, and on-site prescription drugs. Patient First currently operates medical centers in
Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.
Media Contact: Victoria Soriano
(703) 652-1572(Office)
(571) 340-1594 (Mobile)
Victoria.soriano@patientfirst.com
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