Pneumonia
Definition:
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs, leading to inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli) of one or both lungs. This inflammation causes the air sacs to fill with fluid or pus, leading to symptoms such as coughing, fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
Principal Causes:
Pneumonia can be caused by a variety of infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The most common causes of pneumonia include:
Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is the most common bacterial cause of pneumonia. Other bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, can also cause pneumonia.
Viruses: Influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and rhinovirus are common viral causes of pneumonia, especially in children and older adults.
Fungi: Fungal pneumonia is less common and typically affects individuals with weakened immune systems. Fungal organisms such as Pneumocystis jirovecii can cause pneumonia in people with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy.
Symptoms:
Cough: A persistent cough that may produce phlegm (sputum) that can be clear, yellow, green, or bloody.
Fever: High fever, sweating, and chills are common symptoms of pneumonia, especially bacterial pneumonia.
Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.
Fatigue: Generalized weakness, fatigue, and decreased appetite may accompany pneumonia, especially in older adults.
Other symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle aches, and confusion may occur, especially in severe cases.
Our Treatment in Eviva Health:
As a physiotherapy clinic, our treatment approach for pneumonia may include:
Breathing exercises: Teaching deep breathing exercises and techniques to improve lung function and oxygenation.
Chest physiotherapy: Performing chest percussion and postural drainage to help loosen and remove mucus from the lungs.
Exercise prescription: Designing a personalized exercise program to improve strength, endurance, and mobility, taking into account the individual's overall health and fitness level.
Education and support: Providing education about pneumonia, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, as well as offering emotional support and encouragement throughout the recovery process.
This approach aims to optimize respiratory function, promote recovery, and reduce the risk of complications associated with pneumonia. Additionally, we work closely with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care for our patients.