Waking up with a cough can cause alarm, as your first thought might be that you caught a bad cold or the flu. You cancel your Armor Gym-Oak Ridge workout and head to urgent care for a check-up. What feels like the flu could actually be pneumonia, as the two share similar early symptoms. Pneumonia can strike at any time, affecting one or both lungs.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria or viruses like the flu. Inflammation from these infections can fill the lungs with fluid or pus, making it hard to breathe and causing coughing with phlegm. It’s often a complication of the flu or an untreated cold and can vary in severity depending on age and health.
How Did I Catch Pneumonia?
Pneumonia occurs when germs infect the lungs, often spreading through coughing or sneezing. It can happen year-round, whether on a walk, at the gym, or during a work meeting.
Some factors may increase your likelihood of catching pneumonia, including:
- Smoking
- Drinking
- Recent cold or flu
- In a hospital for other treatments
- Under the age of 2
- Over the age of 65
- Weakened immune system
- Exposure to toxic fumes or polluted air
What Are Pneumonia Symptoms?
Pneumonia symptoms vary but often begin with mild fever, dry cough, and fatigue. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Wet cough with phlegm
- Chills
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Body aches
Infants and older adults may experience fewer or subtler symptoms, making it harder to detect and treat early.
When To Visit an Urgent Care
Visit urgent care if you suspect pneumonia in high-risk groups such as infants, seniors, or those with chronic conditions or immune suppression. Watch for severe symptoms like fever over 102°F, thick phlegm, or chest pain.
Bluish lips mean it’s time for the ER
What To Expect at AFC Oak Ridge?
Pneumonia treatment depends on the type of infection. Our providers diagnose it through medical history, a physical exam, and tests like bloodwork or X-rays. Treatment may include:
- Antivirals for viral pneumonia
- Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
- Steroids for severe lung inflammation
Visit us for expert care and treatment.
