Pneumonia
Pneumonia
an infection of the lungs that can cause inflammation and difficulty breathing. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia can occur in people of all ages, but older adults are at increased risk due to a weakened immune system.
Vaccines for Pneumonia https://cutt.ly/7wS5NaWK
Causes of Pneumonia in Older Adults
- Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause in older adults.
- Viruses: Influenza A and B, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) can cause pneumonia.
- Other: Mycoplasma pneumoniae can cause other types of pneumonia.
Symptoms of Pneumonia in Older Adults
- Cough with phlegm
- Sweating
- High fever, chills
- Chest pain when breathing
Prevention of Pneumonia in Older Adults
- Vaccination: Getting the pneumococcal and influenza vaccines can help reduce risk in older adults.
- Handwashing: Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of infection.
- Avoid contact with sick people: If someone in the household has a fever or pneumonia symptoms, avoid close contact during high-risk periods.
Treatment of Pneumonia in Older Adults
- Antibiotics: The first line of treatment for pneumonia in older adults is antibiotics to kill the bacteria.
- Symptom management: Taking fever reducers and cough medicine to relieve symptoms.
- Oxygen therapy: If blood oxygen levels are low.
- Hospitalization: Severe cases or older adults with risk factors may require hospitalization.
Early recognition and treatment of pneumonia in older adults is important to prevent complications and potentially life-threatening situations. If you have risk factors or are unsure about your health or the health of a loved one, see a doctor for evaluation and treatment.
