You’re sipping your favorite drink in Cha Cold Cafe when you notice a persistent cough that just won’t go away. Maybe you brushed it off as a lingering cold, but what if it’s something more? Pneumonia often starts with mild symptoms that resemble the flu or a common cold, but it can quickly escalate into a serious lung infection. Understanding how pneumonia develops, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek medical attention can make all the difference in your recovery.

Visit AFC South Asheville Today

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It leads to inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs, which can fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe. While pneumonia can affect anyone, it is particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Pneumonia can develop in various ways, often following an untreated cold or flu. It can range from mild to severe, with symptoms varying based on the cause of the infection and the individual’s overall health. In some cases, pneumonia can lead to serious complications, such as respiratory failure or sepsis, if left untreated.

How Do You Get Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is typically spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. However, there are different ways you can develop pneumonia, including:

• Bacterial Pneumonia: Often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, this type can develop on its own or after a respiratory infection like the flu. It is the most common form of pneumonia in adults.
• Viral Pneumonia: Caused by viruses such as influenza, RSV, or even COVID-19, this type tends to be milder but can still lead to serious complications.
• Fungal Pneumonia: More common in individuals with weakened immune systems, fungal pneumonia can be contracted by inhaling fungal spores from soil or bird droppings.
• Aspiration Pneumonia: This occurs when food, liquid, or vomit is inhaled into the lungs instead of being swallowed properly, leading to an infection. It is more common in people who have difficulty swallowing or experience frequent acid reflux.

Risk Factors for Pneumonia

While anyone can develop pneumonia, some factors increase the likelihood of infection, including:

• Age: Infants under 2 years old and adults over 65 are at higher risk.
• Chronic Conditions: Asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes can make pneumonia more severe.
• Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking damages lung tissue, making it easier for infections to take hold, while excessive alcohol consumption weakens the immune system.
• Recent Illness or Hospitalization: Having the flu or a respiratory infection weakens the body’s defenses. Additionally, hospital stays can expose patients to pneumonia-causing bacteria.
• Weakened Immune System: Those undergoing chemotherapy, taking immunosuppressive medications, or living with conditions like HIV/AIDS are more susceptible.

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Pneumonia symptoms can range from mild to severe. Early symptoms may mimic a cold or flu, but they can quickly worsen. Common signs include:

• Persistent cough (dry or producing phlegm)
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion (especially in older adults)
• Bluish lips or fingertips (a sign of low oxygen levels)

In infants and young children, symptoms may be harder to detect, and they might only show signs of difficulty breathing, fussiness, or decreased appetite.

When to Visit AFC for Pneumonia

If you are experiencing a persistent cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek medical care promptly. Pneumonia can worsen quickly, and early treatment is key to a full recovery. Visit us if you experience:

• A high fever that doesn’t improve
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Symptoms lasting longer than a week without improvement

For infants, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions, pneumonia can be especially dangerous. If you or a loved one experiences confusion, bluish lips, or severe difficulty breathing, it’s time to seek help at AFC immediately.

How AFC South Asheville Can Help

At our clinic, our experienced medical providers can diagnose and treat pneumonia effectively. When you visit our clinic, you can expect:

• Thorough Evaluation: We conduct a medical history review, physical exam, and, if needed, chest X-rays or blood tests to confirm pneumonia.
• Customized Treatment: Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
  • Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
  • Antiviral medications for viral pneumonia
  • Steroids or oxygen therapy for severe cases
• Supportive Care: We help manage symptoms with fever reducers, hydration, and breathing treatments if needed.

Our goal is to get you back to full health as quickly and safely as possible.

Pneumonia is a serious condition that can develop from everyday respiratory infections and worsen if left untreated. Understanding how pneumonia spreads, recognizing the symptoms early, and knowing when to seek medical care can help prevent complications. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms, don’t wait. Visit AFC South Asheville for expert evaluation and treatment. Your health matters, and we’re here to help you breathe easier and recover faster.