Pneumonia principle is the popular term used in cases where pneumonia is diagnosed as soon as the first symptoms of the disease appear. Although this term is used, the symptoms are indicative of tracheobronchitis and not necessarily pneumonia.
Initially, the first symptoms that may appear and which are popularly considered to be the beginning of pneumonia are a persistent cough, a feeling of shortness of breath, fever and excessive tiredness. As the disease develops and the lung alveoli become inflamed, it is possible to notice other symptoms characteristic of pneumonia. Know the symptoms of pneumonia.
Since these symptoms are very mild, they can become difficult to identify and, therefore, it is very common for pneumonia to be diagnosed when a flu appears that does not improve, and a consultation and chest X-ray are carried out.
Main symptoms
The main signs and symptoms indicative of the onset of pneumonia are:
- Persistent cough with phlegm;
- Slight sensation of shortness of breath;
- Fever above 37.8ºC;
- Loss of appetite;
- Excessive tiredness and general malaise for no apparent reason.
In the elderly, symptoms may be non-specific and there may also be intestinal changes, as well as a change in the state of consciousness, and the person may be distracted or disoriented, which makes diagnosis difficult.
Online symptom test
To find out your risk of having pneumonia, select your symptoms in the test below:
The symptom test is only a guidance tool, not serving as a diagnosis and not replacing consultation with a general practitioner or pulmonologist.
When to make an appointment
It is recommended to make an appointment with a pulmonologist or a general practitioner when respiratory symptoms appear that do not improve, such as a severe cough, feeling short of breath or tiredness, especially if they are accompanied by a fever.
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How to confirm the diagnosis
The chest x-ray is the best test to diagnose the beginning of pneumonia and the phlegm exam can identify whether the infection is caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus. This way, it is possible to quickly start treatment for pneumonia, preventing the patient from getting worse.
Who is most at risk
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can occur in anyone, however, there are some factors that can increase the risk, such as:
- Being a smoker;
- Have an obstructive lung disease, such as emphysema or asthma;
- Staying in the hospital for a long time;
- Have an autoimmune disease, such as AIDS.
Furthermore, the elderly and children also have a higher risk of having any type of infection, including pneumonia, as their immune system is more weakened or less developed, allowing the multiplication of microorganisms that affect lung function.
Check out 10 tips to protect yourself from pneumonia and reduce your risk.
How the treatment is carried out
Treatment for the onset of pneumonia must be guided by a general practitioner, pediatrician or pulmonologist and normally lasts around 7 to 14 days. However, in cases where pneumonia worsens, the patient is elderly or in children, hospital admission may be recommended.
During treatment, some care recommended by your doctor may include rest, drinking plenty of fluids and eating a diet rich in vitamin C, fruits and vegetables to strengthen the immune system.
Understand better how treatment is carried out in case of pneumonia.
