Disclaimer: This article is intended to inform and educate about chest pain from Pneumonia. It is not intended to help you diagnose or treat your condition. If you have any questions, then you should consult with your health care provider.
An Overview Of Chest Pain from Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that affects the air sacs in the lungs. It causes the air sacs to fill with fluid. Some of the symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fast breathing, chest pain and fatigue. The chest pain from pneumonia can worsen every time that someone breathes in or coughs.
The symptoms of pneumonia can range from mild to severe. When a person has mild symptoms, he or she may not know that he or she has the condition. That is why doctors often refer to this as walking pneumonia.
Causes Of Chest Pain from Pneumonia
Pneumomia is usually caused by a virus or bacteria. In most cases, the specific virus or bacteria this condition cannot be identified. The influenza virus can also cause pneumonia. In some cases, pneumonia can be caused by a fungus.
There are several ways that pneumonia can be spread. People often develop this condition by breathing the infected air particles into their lungs. It may also develop after one has a upper respiratory infection. Pneumonia may also occur as the result of a viral infection, such as chickenpox or the measles.
Furthermore, pneumonia can develop after one aspirates a large amount of vomit or food into the lungs. This is common in people who have a condition that affects their ability to swallow, such as a stroke.
Treatment Options For Pneumonia Chest Pain
If you have chest pain from pneumonia, then you will need to see a physician as soon as possible. Antibiotics can be used to treat pneumonia that is caused by a bacteria. There are several antibiotics that can be used. If one does not work, then your doctor may recommend a different type.
Because coughing is one of the main symptoms of pneumonia, your doctor may recommend that you take a cough medication. The medication not only suppresses the urge to cough, but it can also loosen the fluid in the lungs. If you have a fever, then you may be prescribed a fever-reducing medication.
Most people get over pneumonia without complications. However, others require hospitalization. If you are over the age of 65 and have a chronic medical condition, then you may need to be hospitalized. Patients who have a rapid or slow heart rate, breathing problems and low blood pressure may also be hospitalized.
Preventing Chest Pain from Pneumonia
There are many ways that you can prevent pneumonia. A vaccine can protect against many strains of bacteria that cause pneumonia. Ask your doctor if this vaccine is right for you. It is usually recommended for people who are over the age of 65.
You should stay away from people who have upper respiratory infections. You should also stay away from people who have chicken-pox or measles if you never had the illness or never been vaccinated against it. Furthermore, you should wash your hands frequently.