PNEUMONIA

What is it?

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung, usually caused by infection.

What causes it?

Pneumonia is caused by viruses or bacteria which multiply deep in your lungs, setting up inflammation.

Who gets it?

Anyone can get pneumonia. You are more likely to get it if you already have a problem with your lungs, or if your immune system is low because of some other illness. If you have been a smoker and suffer from chronic obstructive airways disease - sometimes called chronic bronchitis - you will also be at risk. Sometimes pneumonia comes in epidemics in the winter months and affects otherwise healthy people. Occasionally you may get a particular kind of pneumonia if you keep birds.

What are the symptoms?

Some kinds of pneumonia come on quickly. Your temperature will rise suddenly, and you will feel shaky and weak. You will also have a painful cough and a sharp pain in your chest when you cough or breathe in. You may also feel achy all over, have a headache and lose your appetite. After a while, your cough will get more fruity and you will start to cough up phlegm, sometimes with blood in it. Occasionally you may get pneumonia as a complication of another illness such as chickenpox or flu. Again, you will get feverish and weak, and then start coughing.

When should I go to my doctor?

Pneumonia is not that common, but many other conditions cause some of the same symptoms. If you are in doubt, you should speak to your doctor, who may be able to reassure you. If you feel delirious and shaky, start coughing up blood or get sharp pains in your chest, you should arrange to see your GP as soon as possible. You may need a home visit.

What tests will my doctor do?

Your doctor will ask you questions and examine you. If he thinks you have pneumonia he may want you to go to hospital, either to be admitted or to get a chest X-ray.

What is the short-term treatment?

You will need antibiotics, either as tablets or by injection into your veins. If sent to hospital, you'll need to stay there until you're feeling better. You may also need physiotherapy for your chest.

Will I need long-term treatment?

Once the infection settles, you will often be left with no long-term damage. You will probably need to be followed up as an outpatient, either at the hospital or with your GP.