Types of Pneumonia
Community-acquired pneumonia: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
Community-acquired pneumonia is a lung infection acquired outside hospital settings, caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Diagnosis involves imaging and lab tests, while treatment includes antibiotics, antivirals, and supportive care.
Community-acquired Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition affecting the lungs, commonly caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) refers to infections contracted outside hospital settings.
Causes
CAP is primarily caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and respiratory viruses such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.
Symptoms
- Fever and chills
- Cough with phlegm or pus
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Fatigue and muscle pain
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, imaging techniques such as chest X-rays, and laboratory tests including sputum cultures and blood tests.
Treatment
- Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
- Antiviral therapy for viral infections
- Oxygen therapy for severe cases
- Supportive care including hydration and rest
Prevention
- Vaccination against pneumococcal bacteria and influenza
- Hand hygiene and respiratory precautions
- Healthy lifestyle and immune system support
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