This article explains the symptoms, causes, types, and treatment options for pneumonia. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis and tailored treatment for different pneumonia types, emphasizing the significance of understanding. Various pneumonia forms, including bacterial, viral, fungal, and hospital-acquired, are discussed to enhance awareness and promote timely medical intervention.

Pneumonia is a common respiratory illness that can affect individuals of all ages. It occurs when an infection causes inflammation in the lungs, especially in the alveoli—the tiny air sacs responsible for oxygen exchange. These sacs can become filled with fluid or pus, leading to breathing challenges. Symptoms often resemble the flu, but pneumonia's causes and severity differ. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or airborne irritants, with symptom presentation depending on the specific pathogen and infection site.

Pneumonia is categorized by its origin and location. Bacterial pneumonia is the most prevalent, whereas viral pneumonia generally affects the elderly and tends to be milder. Mycoplasma pneumonia, caused by organisms with bacterial and viral features, often impacts young adults and teens. Fungal pneumonia results from inhaling fungi or bird droppings, primarily affecting those with significant fungal exposure.

Pneumonia types also include hospital-acquired (HAP), community-acquired (CAP), aspiration pneumonia, which occurs when food or saliva enters the lungs, and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in ventilator users. Symptoms vary based on type, commonly including cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, fatigue, and loss of appetite. In seniors, confusion is frequent. Severe cases show high fever, rapid breathing, bluish lips, and mucus-producing coughs. Viral pneumonia may start like the flu but can deteriorate quickly, causing severe breathlessness and cyanosis.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and imaging, followed by treatment with antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals. Most patients recover within days of starting therapy.