A lung infection called pneumonia affects one or both lungs. It causes inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs' air sacs (alveoli), causing difficulties breathing. There are different types of germs that cause pneumonia, including viruses, fungi, and bacteria. A common and serious form of pneumonia, especially among adults, is bacterial pneumonia.
Many bacteria can cause bacterial pneumonia, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. These bacteria normally live in the nose and throat of healthy people, but they can cause pneumonia if they enter the lungs, especially if the immune system is weak due to illness, medication, or smoking. Contact with infected people or animals can also transmit other bacteria.
The symptoms of bacterial pneumonia can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection, but they usually include:
Fever and chills
Cough, with or without mucus
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Some people may also experience confusion, headache, joint pain, or skin rash. In some cases, bacterial pneumonia can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis (blood infection), pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs), lung abscess (pus-filled cavity in the lung), or respiratory failure (inability to breathe).
A doctor will ask about the symptoms, medical history, and exposure to infection in order to diagnose bacterial pneumonia. As part of the physical examination, the doctor listens to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds, such as crackles or wheezing. Some tests may also be ordered, including:
Chest X-ray or CT scan, to see the extent and location of the infection in the lungs
Blood tests, to check the white blood cell count, inflammation markers, and blood cultures
Sputum test, to analyze the mucus coughed up from the lungs for the presence of bacteria
Urine test, to detect certain bacteria that cause pneumonia, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Legionella pneumophila
Pulse oximetry, to measure the oxygen level in the blood
The main treatment for bacterial pneumonia is antibiotics, which kill the bacteria that cause the infection. In addition to antibiotics, the doctor may prescribe other medications, such as: Depending on the type and severity of the pneumonia, the patient's age and health, and the risk of drug resistance.
Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Cough suppressants, to ease the cough and help sleep
Expectorants, to loosen the mucus and make it easier to cough up
Bronchodilators, to relax the airways and improve breathing
Steroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling in the lungs
In addition to medications, some home remedies and lifestyle changes can help relieve the symptoms and speed up the recovery, such as:
Drinking plenty of fluids, to prevent dehydration and thin the mucus
Resting, to conserve energy and allow the body to heal
Using a humidifier or vaporizer, to add moisture to the air and soothe the throat and lungs
Elevating the head, to reduce coughing and breathing difficulties
Quitting smoking, to avoid further damage to the lungs and prevent future infections
Hospitalization may be necessary for some people with bacterial pneumonia, especially those with severe symptoms, low oxygen levels, and other complications. Oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and mechanical ventilation may be used to help them breathe in the hospital.
Bacterial pneumonia can be prevented by taking some measures, such as:
Getting vaccinated, to protect against some of the bacteria that cause pneumonia, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Legionella pneumophila
Practicing good hygiene, to avoid spreading or catching germs, such as washing hands frequently, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and disposing of used tissues
Avoiding contact with sick people, to reduce the risk of exposure to infection
Strengthening the immune system, to fight off infection, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep
Treating underlying conditions, to prevent complications, such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease
Bacterial pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can lead to severe symptoms and complications. It can be treated with antibiotics and other medications, but it can also be prevented by getting vaccinated, maintaining good hygiene, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you have any signs or symptoms of pneumonia, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
