In the US, 50,000 deaths are attributed to pneumonia, accounting for more than 1.4 million cases. The lung infection that affects one or both lungs, is caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Ranging in severity from mild to life-threatening, pneumonia is known to affect people of all ages, but is particularly dangerous in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. A common question among individuals is – can pneumonia go away on its own? Following subsections offer a detailed look at the condition and appropriate treatment, in addition to offering answers to the above question.
Overview of pneumonia
Pneumonia causes the air sacs in the lungs to become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe. Treatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral medications for viral infections, and supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Prevention of pneumonia can be achieved through vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. It is also important to manage underlying health conditions that may increase the risk of infection.
Symptoms of pneumonia
Symptoms of pneumonia may vary depending on the cause of the infection, the age of the individual, and overall health. Common symptoms of pneumonia include the following:
- Cough – Either dry cough or cough that produces phlegm or mucus.
- Fever – High fever over 100.4 F is common with pneumonia.
- Shortness of breath – Either mild or severe and may worsen with physical activity.
- Chest pain – A sharp or stabbing pain that worsens with breathing or coughing.
- Fatigue – Overall tiredness or weakness is common with pneumonia.
- Muscle aches – A general feeling of muscle ache or specific pain in the muscles.
- Confusion – A symptom of severe pneumonia, typically manifests in older adults.
Less common symptoms of pneumonia include headache, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating. In infants and young children, symptoms may be less specific and include a fever, cough, rapid or shallow breathing, and difficulty feeding.
Treatment for pneumonia and how long does it take to be cured?
Treatment for pneumonia depends on the severity of the condition. For instance, when the infection is mild, and the individual is healthy, treatment can be managed at home with oral antibiotics, rest, and adequate fluids. When the condition is more severe, hospitalization may be required for intravenous antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and close monitoring. The length of treatment for pneumonia may also similarly vary depending on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause. Most individuals start to feel better within a few days of starting treatment, but it may take many weeks for a full recovery. It is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or turning antibiotic resistant.
A section of individuals may experience lingering fatigue, cough, or shortness of breath for several weeks or even months after recovering from pneumonia. Periodic follow up with the healthcare provider will help monitor recovery and address any persistent or lingering symptoms.
Can pneumonia go away on its own?
Pneumonia can at times go away on its own, but this is not the best way of resolving the infection. Pneumonia is a serious infection that is known to cause complications, and it is important to seek medical attention. As outlined above, mild pneumonia can be treated at home, while severe conditions require hospitalization. However, even mild cases are known to worsen, and it can be difficult to predict if a patient will or will not develop complications. It is always better to seek evaluation by a specialist to determine the appropriate treatment and monitor the condition. In both mild and severe cases, the recommendation is treatment; therefore, while in some cases, pneumonia may go away on its own, it is not advisable to wait for it to go away on its own.
What is walking pneumonia?
Walking pneumonia, also known as atypical pneumonia, is a milder form of pneumonia caused by certain types of bacteria, such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Chlamydophila pneumoniae. The term “walking pneumonia” was coined as individuals with this type of pneumonia are often able to continue their daily activities, although with tiredness and a persistent cough. The symptoms of walking pneumonia are similar to those of other types of pneumonia but are typically milder, as listed:
- Mild fever
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Shortness of breath
Unlike other types of pneumonia, walking pneumonia may not produce a high fever or cause severe respiratory symptoms. However, it can still cause complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems, such as young children, older adults, and patients with chronic medical conditions. Walking pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, but it may take longer to fully recover than with other types of pneumonia.
Who is at risk of ending up with pneumonia?
The possibility of contracting pneumonia is common to all, but some individuals are at a higher risk than others. Factors that increase the risk of developing pneumonia include the following:
- Young children under the age of 2 and adults over the age of 65 are at higher risk of developing pneumonia.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or receiving chemotherapy, are at higher risk.
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or kidney disease are at higher risk.
- Smoking damages the lungs and weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of pneumonia.
- Individuals who are frequently exposed to germs, such as healthcare workers, teachers, and daycare providers, are at higher risk.
- Recent respiratory infections, such as the flu, can weaken the immune system and make it easier for bacteria to cause pneumonia.
- Traveling to areas with high rates of pneumonia, such as developing countries or crowded living conditions, can increase the risk of pneumonia.
Preventive steps include timely vaccinations, practicing proper hygiene (washing hands frequently), avoiding smoking, and seeking medical attention for respiratory infections.
Education: Bachelor’s in Biology from the University of California, Berkeley; Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Experience: 10 years as a freelance health writer and editor, contributing to blogs and magazines focused on preventive medicine and fitness.
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