PNEUMONIA, BACTERIAL

 Basic information

description

Bacterial pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by bacterial infection. The inflammation causes fluid to build up in the air sacs (alveoli), making it difficult to breathe. Bacterial pneumonia is not usually contagious. It can affect all ages but is most severe in young children and adults over age 60.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• High fever (over 102°F or 38.9°C) and chills.
• Shortness of breath.
• Cough with sputum that may contain blood or blood streaks.
• Rapid breathing.
• Chest pain that worsens with inhalations.
• Abdominal pain.
• Fatigue.
• Bluish lips and nails (rare).
• Loss of appetite and weight loss.

causes

Infection with bacteria, such as Streptococci, Haemophilus, Klebsiella, Staphylococci, and others The germs are usually breathed in, but may be spread in other ways.

risk increases with

• Age (newborns, infants, and adults over 60).
• Use of anticancer drugs.
• Smoking.
• Chronic diseases.
• Recent surgery.
• Poor general health from any cause.
• Weak immune system due to illness or drugs.
• Hospital care, for any reason.
• Persons who have had their spleen removed.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Obtain medical care for respiratory infections.
• Arrange for pneumococcal and influenza vaccines.
• Avoid risk factors where possible.

expected outcomes

Usually curable, in otherwise healthy persons, in 1 to 2 weeks with treatment. It may take longer for the very young, elderly, or those with other disorders.

possible complications

• Pleurisy and pleural effusion (problems of the membrane layers that cover the lung).
• Bronchiectasis (damaged airways in the lungs).
• Spread of infection.
• Pulmonary abscess (pus-filled area).
• Complications, including death, are more likely in older persons who have other respiratory disorders or serious diseases.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms. Medical tests may include sputum culture, a blood study, blood oxygen level, x-rays of lungs, and lung scan.
• Hospital care is often needed for more severe cases. Treatment may include breathing support, fluids and/or drugs injected into a vein (IV), and removal of excess fluids from the lung. Some cases may be treated at home.
• Don't suppress the cough with a drug if the cough produces sputum or mucus. It is useful in ridding the body of lung secretions.
• Use a heating pad on low heat or warm compresses to relieve chest pain.
• Quit smoking. Find a way to stop that works for you.
• To learn more: American Lung Association, 61 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10006; (800) 586-4872; website: www.lungusa.org.

medications

• Antibiotics for infection will be prescribed.
• You may use nonprescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, to relieve minor discomfort.

activity

Rest in bed, until fever declines and pain and shortness of breath disappear. Then resume normal activities gradually.

diet

No special diet. Increase fluid intake. Extra fluid helps thin the lung secretions so they are easier to cough up.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of pneumonia.
• The following occur during treatment:
  • Fever, pain, or shortness of breath increases.
  • Dark or bluish fingernails, toenails, or skin.
  • Blood in the sputum.
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Special Notes: