Key Information About Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an acute medical condition characterized by inflammation of the lungs.
It causes tiny air sacs at the end of the breathing tubes in the lungs to fill up with fluid.
Globally, there are more than 1,400 cases of pneumonia per 100,000 children.
Types
Bacterial pneumonia
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Viral pneumonia
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Mycoplasma pneumonia
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Other Pneumonia
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Causes
Pneumonia may be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, or fungus infections; less frequently by other causes.
Pneumonia-causing germs can settle in the alveoli and multiply after a person breathes them in.
A mysterious outbreak of pneumonia in central China in January 2020 was pegged to a coronavirus.
“The evidence is highly suggestive that the outbreak is associated with exposures in one seafood market in Wuhan,” the WHO statement said.
Many factors affect how serious pneumonia is, such as the type of germ causing the lung infection, age, and overall health.
Stages
Consolidation
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Red hepatization
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Grey hepatization
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Resolution
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Symptoms
Sweating, loss of appetite, shallow breathing, nausea, fever, cough, chills, chest pain, fatigue, confusion and vomiting are some symptoms of pneumonia.
It may be difficult to notice that you have pneumonia, as the symptoms can be easily mistaken for the flu.
Diagnosis
Physical examination, blood test, chest X-ray, pulse oxymetry and sputum test are used to diagnose pneumonia.
Oxygen levels below 90% signal a clinical emergency, according to the WHO.
Pulse Oxymetry Is Used to Diagnose Pneumonia
Treatment
Although pneumonia is definitely unpleasant and can be deadly in some cases, it usually improves with treatment within a few weeks.
Macrolide antibiotics are used to treat bacterial pneumonia. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. So doctors use antiviral medicines in these cases. It is important to consume plenty of fluids and to take rest.
Pneumonia is a very serious infection of the lung.... It can sometimes be caused by bacteria or viruses, but they typically do need to be treated with either antibiotics or observation with a clinician or doctor.
— Dr. Jordan Owens, Christus Trinity Mother Francis.Prevention
Wash your hands with soap before eating and before cooking. Eat healthy, natural food. Do yoga daily.
Do not use tobacco products. If possible, stay away from people infected by pneumonia. Sleep for at least seven hours during night hours.
Smoking Increases Pneumonia Risk
The principle reason children and the elderly are susceptible to community-acquired pneumonia is because the immune system fails to contain and clear what are normally commensal bacteria.
— Carlos J. Orihuela, author and researcherYoga Asanas that Increase Immunity
Tadasana
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Vriksasana
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Trikonasana
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Do you practice yoga?
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
© 2020 Srikanth R
