Pneumonia is an infection that physical examination, and diagnostic

inflames the air sacs in one or both
lungs. It is typically caused by bacteria,
viruses, or fungi. When a person
develops pneumonia, the air sacs in
the lungs may fill with fluid or pus,
making it difficult to breathe and
causing symptoms such as cough,
fever, chest pain, and difficulty
breathing.
tests, such as chest X-rays and
laboratory tests to identify the specific
organism causing the infection.
Treatment for pneumonia often
involves antibiotics for bacterial
pneumonia or antiviral medications for
viral pneumonia, along with supportive
care to relieve symptoms and promote
recovery.

Pneumonia can range from mild to Prevention of pneumonia can be done

severe, and its severity depends on
various factors, including the type of
organism causing the infection, the
overall health of the individual, and
their age. Certain groups, such as
infants, young children, older adults,
and individuals with weakened
immune systems, are at a higher risk
of developing complications from
pneumonia.
through vaccination against certain
organisms, such as pneumococcal
vaccines and influenza vaccines,
practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding
close contact with individuals who
have respiratory infections, and
maintaining overall good health
through a balanced diet and regular
exercise.

Common causes of pneumonia

include Streptococcus pneumoniae
bacteria, influenza viruses, respiratory
syncytial virus (RSV), and Mycoplasma
pneumoniae bacteria. Pneumonia can
be acquired in various settings,
including community-acquired
pneumonia (CAP), which is acquired
outside of a healthcare setting, or
hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP),
which occurs during a hospital stay.
There is also a type of pneumonia
called aspiration pneumonia, which
develops when foreign matter, such as
food or liquids, is inhaled into the
lungs.

Pneumonia is typically diagnosed

through a combination of symptoms,