. Common Symptoms

Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs. The air sacs fill with pus and make it difficult to breathe. Though there are many types of this infection, the symptoms of pneumonia are largely the same regardless of what type you have contracted. Those who have had a stroke, or suffer from asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, or heart disease are most likely to acquire pneumonia in all its forms. Smoking also increases one's risk of pneumonia.

Bacterial pneumonia is the most common type of this disease of the lungs and is generally caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Chlamydophila, Mycoplasma, and Legionella pneumophila can also lead to bacterial pneumonia. This type of infection can cause fever as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit, and can also lead to confusion, bluing of the lips and nails, and flop sweat, though older adults can experience drops rather than rises in body temperature. Viral pneumonia is more prevalent in infants and older adults and is generally milder and more short-lived than the bacterial version. Fungal pneumonia usually spreads through soil or bird droppings. Fungal pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia leads to a compromised immune system, and doctors will often administer an HIV test following diagnosis.

  • Mucus-producing cough
  • Dry cough
  • Chest pain
  • Fever, sweating, and chills
  • Shortness of breath

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