Pneumonia (lung infection)

About Pneumonia (lung infection)

Infection in the lung. The air cells can fill with fluid (pus) causing shortness of breath and breathing problems. Pneumonia can be severe and is a common cause of death. Certain risk factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol use, diabetes, depressed immune systems, and poor nutrition increase the risk of developing pneumonia. The pneumococcal vaccination (Pneumovax) protects against the most common cause of bacterial pneumonia.

Symptoms

Cough with greenish or yellow sputum, bloody sputum, fever with shaking chills, sharp or stabbing chest pain, chest pain worsened by deep breathing or coughing, rapid, shallow breathing, shortness of breath, weak pulse.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray can confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests, sputum cultures, and blood cultures can identify the cause and severity of the infection. Occasionally a CT scan is performed as well especially if an associated pleural effusion is present.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, X-ray.

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

Antibiotics (azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, levofloxacin, ceftriaxone, doxycycline). Pneumonia treatment may require a stay in the hospital for intravenous antibiotics. Supplemental oxygen may be needed until the pneumonia improves. Severe cases can require mechanical ventilation. For additional information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573. American Lung Association: (800)586-4872 National Jewish Medical and Research Center: (800)222-5864

Medical specialties

Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Pulmonology · Family Practice · Pediatric Pulmonology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Pneumonia (lung infection).