URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Dr. Fred Burke of OSF HealthCare is sharing his top tips to protect yourself from pneumonia.
Pneumonia is a serious lung infection caused by viruses or bacteria and has made major headlines with Pope Francis’s hospitalization. The infection inflames the lungs, impairing their ability to function correctly. It can be caused by streptococcus pneumoniae (a bacteria) and viruses like RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), influenza, or COVID-19. The symptoms range from coughing, fever, and chills to weakness and difficulty breathing. It can also lead to lung consolidation, fluid buildup, and scarring.
According to Dr. Burke, pneumonia can be identified through X-rays or CAT scans and treatment depends on the cause.
- Viral Pneumonia: There’s no direct treatment for viral pneumonia; instead, care focuses on managing symptoms with fever reducers and inhalers.
- Bacterial Pneumonia: Antibiotics are prescribed, either orally for mild cases or intravenously for more severe ones. Additional procedures like bronchoscopy may also be used to clear mucus from airways.
Left untreated, pneumonia can lead to sepsis or respiratory failure, leading to hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or even life support. Pneumonia can spread through respiratory droplets or contiminated surfaces. Washing your hands or sneezing into your elbow are essential to stop the spread. The pneumococcal vaccine is also an important tool that is recommended for people at higher risk—such as smokers, individuals with chronic illnesses like COPD, or those with weakened immune systems.