What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is inflammation of the tissue in your lungs, which is usually caused by an infection. The most common cause is a bacterium called streptococcus pneumoniae.
At the end of the breathing tubes in your lungs are clusters of tiny air sacs, which become inflamed and fill up with fluid if you have pneumonia.
How common is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is more common during autumn and winter, and affects up to 11 in 1,000 British adults every year. People of any age can catch pneumonia, but it is more common in babies, young children and elderly people, and in those who smoke. People with other health problems and a weakened immune system are also at greater risk.
What are the symptoms of Pneumonia?
Pneumonia symptoms can develop suddenly or may come over a period of several days. Pneumonia causes a cough, which may be dry or produce phlegm that is yellow, green, brownish or blood stained. Pneumonia also causes a fever, tiredness and chest pains, as well as difficulty breathing.
Pneumonia symptoms vary and can be similar to those of other chest infections, such as acute bronchitis.
How is Pneumonia treated?
Mild pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics. Sometimes oxygen therapy and fluids through a drip are also needed for more serious causes. Pain relief can be taken to ease the symptoms.
It is also important to stop smoking and drink plenty of fluids.
If you have not received treatment or advice, or suffered any symptoms in the past five years choose a moratorium product.