What is Pneumonia?
In this article from the American Lung Association you will learn the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options for pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue. The infection will cause your lungs (air sacs) to become irritated allowing the air sacs to fill up with fluid or pus.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Chills
- Clamminess
- Low blood pressure
- Headache
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Rapid heart beat
- Nausea and or vomiting
- Weakness
Viral Pneumonia
Typical antibiotics will not work for viral pneumonia; sometimes however, your doctor may use antiviral medication. Viral pneumonia usually improves in 1 to 3 weeks.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Patients with mild pneumonia who are otherwise healthy are sometimes treated with oral macrolide antibiotics. Patients with other serious illnesses, such as heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, kidney disease, or diabetes are often given more powerful and/or higher dose antibiotics.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the type of pneumonia you have and how sever it is, and if you have other chronic diseases. See your doctor for the proper diagnosis.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help loosen secretions and bring up phlegm.
- Get lots of rest.
- Don’t take cough medicines without first talking with your doctor.
- Control your fever with aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen.
If you feel you might have pneumonia it’s important to see a doctor. Dr. Jennifer Ackerman, Dr. Michael Ackerman, and Dr. Robert Lin of Dominion Internal Medicine are experts in their field of internal medicine. If pneumonia is suspected, the physicians of Dominion Internal Medicine will first perform a physical exam followed by a chest x-ray. Don’t delay in seeking treatment if you are infected. The goals of treatment are to cure the infection and prevent serious complications. Contact our experts at Dominion Internal Medicine (540) 878.5408 to schedule an appointment or simply for more information. Most insurances are accepted.
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