You’ve avoided the flu this season, but one morning, you wake up with a nagging cough. Canceling your plans at JAB Kickboxing, you grab your essentials and head to urgent care for peace of mind. Early symptoms of pneumonia often look like the flu, making it easy to mistake one for the other.
Pneumonia can affect one or both lungs and is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Its severity can range from mild to serious.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia, often caused by bacteria or flu viruses, results in lung inflammation that blocks airways with fluid or pus. This condition leads to coughing, phlegm, and breathing trouble. It can develop from an untreated cold or flu and varies in risk based 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
Pneumonia can be serious for infants, seniors, and those with weak immune systems or chronic illnesses. Severe symptoms like fever, chest pain, and breathing issues need urgent care.
Bluish lips or fingers require emergency medical attention.
What To Expect at AFC Hixson?
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.
