What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The condition inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, causing them to fill with fluid or pus, which can make breathing difficult. Pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly or individuals with underlying health conditions. In Australia, more than 2,000 people die from pneumonia annually, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
There are different types of pneumonia, depending on the cause and how the infection was acquired. Some of the most common forms include:
- Bacterial pneumonia
- Viral pneumonia
- Fungal pneumonia
- Walking pneumonia
- Community-acquired pneumonia
- Aspiration pneumonia
Pneumonia Symptoms
Pneumonia symptoms can resemble the flu or a cold but tend to be more severe and persistent. Common symptoms include:
- A persistent dry or wet cough
- Difficulty breathing
- High fever (above 38°C)
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
Other symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Blue-tinted lips and fingertips (cyanosis)
- Confusion, particularly in elderly individuals
- Body aches and pains
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating and chills
- Coughing up phlegm or even blood
Causes
Most pneumonia cases seen by GPs at Pocket Doctor are community-acquired, meaning the infection occurs outside of hospitals or healthcare settings. However, pneumonia can also be acquired in hospital environments or through the use of a ventilator.
Community-Acquired
This form is caused by various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Common culprits include:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae (bacteria)
- Haemophilus influenzae (bacteria)
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Parainfluenza virus
Hospital-Acquired and Ventilator-Associated
Bacterial infections such as Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and Staphylococcus aureus often cause hospital or ventilator-acquired pneumonia. Patients who are immunocompromised or critically ill are at a higher risk of contracting these infections.
Is Pneumonia Contagious?
Yes, it can be contagious when caused by bacteria or viruses. These germs spread through:
- Airborne droplets (coughing or sneezing)
- Sharing food or drinks
- Contaminated blood
However, not everyone exposed to pneumonia-causing germs will develop the infection. Some forms, like fungal or aspiration pneumonia, are less contagious.
Diagnosis and Tests
If you suspect pneumonia, a doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate tests. These may include:
- Physical Examination: Using a stethoscope, your doctor will listen for abnormal lung sounds.
- Chest X-ray: A detailed image of the lungs can reveal infection or inflammation.
- Blood Tests: These can detect the presence of an infection.
- Sputum Culture: This test analyses mucus from the lungs to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
- Bronchoscopy: In some cases, a camera is inserted into the airways to directly observe the lungs and collect tissue samples.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of infection and its severity. The goal is to stop the infection from worsening and manage the symptoms effectively.
- Medications
Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial pneumonia, while antiviral or antifungal medications treat viral and fungal infections. Additional medications, like paracetamol, may help alleviate fever and pain. - Rest and Hydration
Adequate rest and hydration are critical for recovery. Your doctor will likely advise reducing physical activity to allow your body to heal. - Hospital Admission
For severe pneumonia, especially in vulnerable groups (e.g. young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems), hospitalisation may be necessary. Medical staff will closely monitor patients and provide necessary treatments like oxygen therapy. - Pneumococcal Vaccine
Your doctor may recommend the pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against the most common type of bacterial pneumonia. This vaccine is especially important for infants, adults over 70, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults over 50, and people with weakened immune systems.
Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the person’s overall health and the severity of the infection. Healthy individuals with community-acquired pneumonia generally have a 99% survival rate. However, those who develop pneumonia during a stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) may face more severe outcomes, with a 50% survival rate.
Most symptoms improve with treatment, but some people may continue to experience lingering effects such as a dry cough or fatigue for weeks after the infection has cleared.
Complications
If left untreated, pneumonia can lead to serious complications, including:
- Lung failure
- Sepsis (blood infection)
- Lung abscesses
- Pericarditis (swelling around the heart)
- Organ failure
At Pocket Doctor, we offer reliable telehealth services that allow you to receive expert care from the comfort of your home. Our experienced doctors are available 24/7 to help diagnose and treat pneumonia, ensuring you get the care you need promptly.
Book a telehealth consultation today with Pocket Doctor and get personalised care, anywhere in Australia, anytime.
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