Pneumonia
Overview
Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by an infection. Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks, but babies, older people, and people with heart or lung conditions are at risk of getting seriously ill and may need treatment in hospital.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pneumonia can start suddenly or gradually over a few days. They include: a cough – you may cough up yellow or green mucus (phlegm)shortness of breatha high temperaturechest painan aching bodyfeeling very tiredloss of appetitemaking wheezing noises when you breathe – babies may also make grunting noisesfeeling confused – this is common in older people
Causes
Pneumonia is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. You can catch pneumonia from someone who has it, or you can sometimes get it if you have another infection such as: flurespiratory syncytial virus (RSV)COVID-19 Pneumonia can be caused by a fungal infection, but this is rare in healthy people in the UK. It may also be caused by something getting into your lungs, such as water or food (aspiration pneumonia).
Treatment
You'll usually be given antibiotics to treat pneumonia. Most people get better in 2 to 4 weeks. Some people are more at risk of becoming seriously ill. You may need to go to hospital for treatment if: you're over 65you havecardiovascular diseaseor a long-term lung conditionyour baby or young child has pneumoniayou're very unwell In hospital you'll usually be given fluids and antibiotics to treat the infection. You may also be given oxygen to help you breathe. You may be sent for anX-rayof your chest and blood tests to check for other conditions. If you're given antibiotics to take at home, contact your doctor if you do not feel better after taking them for 2 to 3 days.
Prevention
Vaccines (Flu/Pneumococcal); Stop smoking; Good hygiene.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: high fever; trouble breathing; coughing up blood. Urgent.