26/04/2026
📌 PNEUMONIA – Clinical Overview
Pneumonia is an acute infection of the lung parenchyma in which the alveoli become inflamed and filled with fluid or pus. It can affect one or both lungs and ranges from mild illness to life-threatening disease, especially in infants, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised patients.
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🔬 Causes
* Bacterial (most common in adults): Streptococcus pneumoniae
* Viral: Influenza, RSV, SARS-CoV-2
* Fungal: Seen in immunocompromised patients
* Aspiration: Inhalation of food, liquid, or gastric contents
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⚠️ Common Symptoms
* Fever, chills
* Productive or dry cough
* Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
* Pleuritic chest pain (worse with breathing/coughing)
* Fatigue, loss of appetite
* Confusion (especially in elderly patients)
👉 Classic triad: Fever + productive cough + dyspnea
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🚨 Severe Features
* SpO₂ < 92% (hypoxemia)
* Tachypnea or respiratory distress
* Cyanosis (bluish lips/face)
* Altered mental status
* Signs of sepsis
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🫁 Diagnosis
* Clinical assessment + lung examination
* Chest X-ray: consolidation/infiltrates
* Pulse oximetry (SpO₂)
* Sputum analysis & blood tests
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💊 Treatment
* Antibiotics (bacterial pneumonia)
* Antivirals (selected viral cases)
* Supportive care: fluids, rest, antipyretics
* Oxygen therapy in moderate–severe cases
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⚡ Complications
* Pleural effusion
* Lung abscess
* Respiratory failure
* Sepsis
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🛡️ Prevention
* Vaccination (Pneumococcal, Influenza, COVID-19)
* Hand hygiene
* Avoid smoking & excessive alcohol
* Manage chronic illnesses
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⏰ Seek urgent care if:
* Difficulty breathing
* Persistent high fever
* Chest pain
* Confusion
* Bluish lips or inability to maintain oxygen levels
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🧠 High-yield tip
Lobar pneumonia is classically associated with rust-colored sputum and focal chest findings on examination.
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⚠️ Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
