Addressing Pneumonia in Infants and the Elderly: Access to Medical Professionals 24/7!
Define Pneumonia?
Infection of the lungs by several types of bacteria or viruses causes pneumonia, a common and potentially fatal condition. When the air sacs in the lungs become contaminated with pneumonia, the patient will have difficulty breathing.
Young Children and the Aged
People can infect anyone with the germs and viruses that cause pneumonia. But new-born’s, the elderly, and those with pre-existing immune system deficiencies are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia. Because of their weakened immune systems and increased risk of developing co-morbid diseases, the elderly are more likely to contract the disease and may not make a full recovery compared to younger people. Because their immune systems have not matured to handle the virus’s stress of the virus, infants are also more likely to contract the disease.
What to look for if you have pneumonia ?
More than one of these symptoms increases the likelihood of pneumonia in infants and the elderly.
- Fatigue and Frailty
- The patient experienced chest tightness, wheezing, and rapid, shallow breathing.
- There is a noticeable blue tint to the skin, particularly around the mouth.
- There are signs of discomfort in the abdomen or chest
- Severe fever (usually over 38 degrees Celsius)—particularly when accompanied by chills, muscle discomfort, and/or other symptoms
- Diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea are symptoms of gastrointestinal issues.
- Combating bacterial vs. viral pneumonia
- Bacterial or viral infections can cause pneumonia.
Rapid onset of symptoms, such as a high temperature and difficulty breathing, is characteristic of bacterial pneumonia. It could be more difficult to diagnose viral pneumonia because the symptoms initially resemble those of a normal cold and then worsen.
How to Identify Pneumonia ?
A doctor will conduct a battery of diagnostic procedures, both in the clinic and in the lab, to rule out pneumonia. At the outset of any medical evaluation, a doctor will take a patient’s vital signs, such as their temperature, pulse, and respiration rate, as well as their eyes, throat, and glands. It is possible to confirm pneumonia with chest X-rays, blood tests, and a mucus test.
A Plan for Treating Pneumonia
You must know what kind of pneumonia you have, because the treatment for bacterial pneumonia is very different from that for viral pneumonia. The standard treatment for bacterial pneumonia is antibiotics, while the treatment for viral pneumonia involves a variety of anti-viral drugs.
Alleviation of symptoms
Make sure to drink enough water and eat plenty of food. Patients with severe pneumonia may also require oxygen therapy to help them breathe and raise their blood oxygen levels. Doctors may medicate for symptoms such as pain, fever, and sleeplessness. Even though it’s one of the most noticeable signs of pneumonia, some doctors actually recommend coughing out the mucus and phlegm that’s been building up in the lungs.
Prevention of Pneumonia
Many viruses and bacteria can cause pneumonia, but maintaining good personal hygiene is the most effective way to prevent it. Boosting the Immune System: Pneumonia is more common in those with compromised immune systems; therefore, it’s important to figure out how to make that system stronger. Perhaps a substance that strengthens the immune system would be supportive.
Vaccinate—Getting a vaccine can protect against most of the major bacterial and viral strains of pneumonia. Infants can get a pneumococcal immunization up to two years old. Pneumococcal vaccines protect against 22 different types of pneumonia-causing bacteria. The effectiveness of these vaccinations decreases with age; thus, older adults should get re-vaccinated more often (every five years after 65). In addition to reducing flu symptoms, an influenza vaccine can help prevent pneumonia. People aged 65 and up should receive flu shots annually.
In a smoke-free environment, people are less likely to have pneumonia and other respiratory problems caused by smoking and second-hand smoke.
Hygiene in the Mouth: Infections around teeth and dentures can cause pneumonia in the elderly if they don’t brush and floss regularly.
Pneumonia Specialists on Call
Untreated pneumonia can result in serious complications. Urgent medical attention from a qualified physician is required. Doctors on-call will provide prompt and effective care, regardless of your location or activity. In addition to diagnosing pneumonia and its causes, our experts may also prescribe and coordinate the necessary drugs and treatment plans. Neither you nor your family should suffer this pain and anxiety. If you require assistance, simply call Doctors-on-Call.
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