What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that can affect one or both of your lungs. Millions of people suffer from pneumonia every year. People who are older than 65 years, younger than 2 years or have health problems are most susceptible to pneumonia.

Causes

• Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses. These can be breathed into the lungs through mouth or nose.
• It can also be caused due to inhalation of chemicals or fluid into the lungs
• Pneumonia can occur after or during an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus.
• It can occur as a complication of diseases like the chickenpox and measles
• Inhalation of gastric juices and food during a seizure or a stroke.

Symptoms

• Shaking chills
• Cough and phlegm that gets worse
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain during breathing or coughing
• Feeling worse after flu or cold

Treatment

• Take plenty of rest and fluids
• Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the causative agent is not a virus
• Your doctor may ask you to get tested to find out the causative agent
• Do not try to suppress your cough and unless severe you do not need medications for it.

Prevention

• Children can be vaccinated with the Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV)
• Stop smoking
• Avoid people that have infections that lead to pneumonia
• Get vaccinated against Chickenpox and measles
• Wash and keep your hands clean

What you can expect when you visit our clinics

1. Stop by our front desk to visit a certified Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant. No appointment is required.
2. Your medical practitioner will examine your medical background, go over your medical issues, perform an examination and supply you with an individualized plan for treatment. This might consist of non-prescription items or a medical prescription.
3. Towards the end of your visit to our clinic, your medical attendant will give you an overview, an invoice and some instructional material may be given.
4. The overview of your clinic visit can be forwarded to your primary health care provider with your authorization.