Pneumonia is a kind of infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs. This condition can be caused in one or both lungs and may also result in accumulation of fluid or pus (purulent material) in the air sacs causing cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty in breathing.

Pneumonia can range in seriousness as it may start mild and eventually become life-threatening. The condition may be fatal for infants, young children, people older than age 65, and people with chronic health problems or weak immune system. Let us learn more about the condition:

Pneumonia Causes

There can be a lot of causes of pneumonia but the most common ones are infections caused due to certain bacteria and viruses that are present in the air we breathe. Usually, the body prevents such germs to infect our lungs but in case they overpower our immunity system, it may result to a condition like pneumonia.

Following are some of the common causes that may result in this severe condition:

• Bacteria: Streptococcus pneumonia is a bacterial pneumonia that can aggravate after you have recovered from a cold or the flu. This condition may affect one part (lobe) of the lung and this condition is called lobar pneumonia.
• Fungi: The type of pneumonia that is caused due to a fungal infection is most common in people who have had chronic health related problems or a weak immune system. The fungus that causes such condition can be found in soil or bird droppings.
• Viruses: Certain viruses that common cause cold and flu may also result in pneumonia. This type of pneumonia is the most common amongst children who are younger than 5 years. Viral pneumonia is typically mild but in some cases it can develop into a severe condition.

Pneumonia Symptoms

Following are some of the most common symptoms observed in Pneumonia:

• Chest pain while breathing or coughing
• Changes in mental awareness that may cause confusion
• Excessive cough which may produce phlegm
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Fever, sweating and trembling
• Hypothermia (Body temperature lower than normal)
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath/difficulty in breathing

These were some of the most common causes and symptoms of pneumonia. It is important to pay keen attention if you are observing such symptoms which will help you get correct and accurate treatment of pneumonia at the right time.