Pneumonia Cases on the Rise
By Bridget Ozman, MD | Hoag Urgent Care
What You Need to Know
We have been seeing an increase in patients with pneumonia symptoms. As respiratory illnesses tend to spike when the weather turns cold, it’s not surprising to see more cases of pneumonia during the fall and winter months. Pneumonia is a serious infection that affects the lungs, caused by bacteria, viruses (such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV), or fungi. These infectious agents can enter your lungs through your nose or mouth, leading to inflammation and infection. While it can range from mild to severe, it is a serious condition that requires prompt attention, especially for individuals at higher risk. If you’re experiencing persistent cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, now is the time to seek care.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can develop pneumonia, some individuals face a higher risk of severe illness, including:
- Young children: Their developing immune systems may struggle to fight off infections.
- Older adults (65 and over): Age-related changes in immunity and pre-existing health conditions increase susceptibility.
- People with chronic conditions: Those with heart disease, diabetes, or chronic lung conditions like asthma or COPD are at greater risk.
- Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems due to medications, cancer treatments, or diseases like HIV/AIDS are more likely to develop pneumonia.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Pneumonia symptoms can vary widely depending on the severity of the infection. While some cases are mild and may feel like a bad cold, others can become life-threatening, particularly for those in high-risk groups. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough, sometimes producing phlegm.
- Fever and chills, often accompanied by sweating.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, even during rest.
- Chest pain, especially when coughing or taking a deep breath.
- Severe fatigue, leaving you feeling unusually drained.
In more severe cases, you may also experience:
- Nausea or vomiting, which can lead to dehydration.
- Confusion or changes in mental awareness, particularly in older adults.
If you or a loved one develops these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care promptly. Early treatment can prevent the infection from worsening or causing complications.
How Is Pneumonia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pneumonia typically involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. Your healthcare provider may listen for abnormal lung sounds, such as crackling or wheezing, during a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, a chest X-ray is often performed to identify inflammation or fluid in the lungs. Additional tests, such as blood work or sputum analysis, may be recommended in severe cases or for those at higher risk of complications.
Treatment Options for Pneumonia
Treatment for pneumonia depends on the underlying cause and severity of the infection:
- Bacterial pneumonia: Antibiotics are the primary treatment, with most patients responding well to medication within a few days.
- Viral pneumonia: This type often resolves on its own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. However, antiviral drugs may be prescribed for severe cases, such as those caused by influenza.
- Fungal pneumonia: Antifungal medications are required, though this type is less common.
The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. Most patients recover fully with timely care, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
Potential Pneumonia Complications
While many cases of pneumonia resolve without issue, complications can arise, especially in high-risk individuals. These include:
- Fluid accumulation in the lungs (pleural effusion), which can impair breathing.
- Lung abscesses, where pockets of pus form in the lungs.
- Bacteremia, a serious condition where the infection spreads into the bloodstream. Bacteremia can lead to widespread organ damage and requires immediate medical attention.
How to Reduce Your Risk
Prevention is always better than treatment. Here are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing pneumonia:
- Stay vaccinated: Vaccines like the pneumococcal vaccine and an annual flu shot significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia caused by these infections.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with sick individuals to prevent the spread of germs.
- Boost your immune system: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Avoid smoking, as it damages the lungs and increases susceptibility to infection.
At Hoag Urgent Care, we offer convenient access to flu shots and other vaccinations to keep you protected during peak respiratory illness seasons.
When to Seek Medical Care
Pneumonia is a serious illness, and delaying treatment can lead to complications. If you experience any of the following, visit one of our Hoag Urgent Care locations immediately:
- Severe or worsening symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain.
- A fever lasting more than a few days, despite over-the-counter medications.
- Confusion or persistent fatigue that interferes with daily activities.
Our experienced team is here to provide a prompt diagnosis, treatment, and care to help you recover safely. Whether it’s pneumonia or another respiratory concern, we’re equipped to address your needs and ensure your peace of mind.
Take Action Today
Pneumonia doesn’t have to be life-threatening. With early diagnosis and treatment, most cases are manageable, allowing you to recover fully. If you’re experiencing symptoms, visit Hoag Urgent Care today. Let us help you breathe easier and feel better faster.
To check wait times or make a reservation, CLICK HERE.
*If you experience crushing chest pain, loss of consciousness, severe bleeding, trouble breathing, or signs of stroke, call 9-1-1 and go to the emergency room immediately.
Dr. Bridget Ozman is a board certified family physician who has been with Hoag Urgent Care for over 5 years.