There are several ways to contract pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection of the air sacs in the lungs. It is most recognized as a cough that produces phlegm. AFC Urgent Care Danbury offers diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia for any family member over age one. Knowing how pneumonia spread and preventing it can help keep you and your loved ones safe this winter season.

Symptoms & Causes

The symptoms of pneumonia can range depending on the person and how it was contracted. For those that have mild symptoms, it may just feel like a cold or flu that lasts a bit longer. Symptoms of pneumonia can include:

• Cough that produces phlegm
• Fever, with or without body chills
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath

Adults older than 65 may experience these symptoms, along with signs of confusion or a low body temperature. Infants with pneumonia may only experience vomiting, restlessness, and a cough. These two groups, along with those recovering from chemotherapy or weakened immune systems, are more likely to develop pneumonia and other complications. It is important to monitor the severity of symptoms throughout the illness. Knowing when you visit an urgent care and when to see the emergency room is critical. Find that information here. 

Community-acquired pneumonia is the most common way to get pneumonia for healthy adults. This includes walking pneumonia, which is typically a bad cough that does undiagnosed and does not require bed rest. CAP can also come from bacteria, fungi, and other viruses. Pneumonia is a complication from many viruses, such as COVID-19. If you develop pneumonia from COVID-19, symptoms may be very severe. 

Bacteria that hold pneumonia may live in hospitals for a while. It is possible to contract pneumonia during a hospital stay. This can be hard to combat with antibiotics since the bacteria are already resistant. 

Treatment & Prevention

Since pneumonia can be contracted through other viruses, getting a flu shot is the best way to stay safe. AFC Urgent Care offers flu shots to anyone over six months. Additionally, washing your hands frequently and avoiding others when sick can help prevent contracting pneumonia. Get plenty of rest and drink water to keep your immune system healthy.

Treatment for pneumonia depends on the type contracted. Bacterial pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics. Pneumonia caused by viruses does not have a specific treatment. There are OTC medications that can help relieve symptoms. Cough medicine may also help while sleeping, but it is not good to eliminate the cough. Coughing helps break up the phlegm and congestion in your chest, but the pain can be relieved by ibuprofen.