Understanding Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a condition that can affect people of all ages, but it’s significantly more dangerous in older adults. Without proper treatment, pneumonia can cause life-threatening complications, which is why seniors need to understand the signs and symptoms of pneumonia so they can seek treatment as soon as possible.
What Is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes one or both lungs to fill with fluid or pus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include a persistent wet cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pains that intensify when you take a deep breath, loss of appetite, low energy levels, and confusion.
There are three types of pneumonia based on what causes the condition:
- Bacteria: Bacterial pneumonia is the most common form of pneumonia. It develops from bacteria in the upper respiratory tract, usually after a viral cold or the flu.
- Viruses: Like bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia affects the upper respiratory tract. The most common causes of viral pneumonia are COVID-19 and influenza, though any virus can cause pneumonia.
- Fungi: Fungal pneumonia typically develops in individuals with weakened immune systems or those with chronic health conditions. It can also develop in those who have contact with contaminated soil.
Complications Of Pneumonia
Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of hospitalization and mortality from infection in seniors. Age-related changes, such as weakened muscles and immune systems, often make it harder for seniors to recover from pneumonia. Seniors also have a higher risk of pneumonia complications, such as lung abscesses, acute respiratory distress, organ damage from lack of oxygen, and the spread of bacteria to other parts of the body.
Preventing Pneumonia
Pneumonia is preventable, and you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing pneumonia.
- Stay up to date on your vaccines. Since viruses like COVID-19 and influenza can contribute to the development of pneumonia, staying updated with your annual vaccines is essential. There is also a pneumococcal vaccine that can reduce your risk of bacterial pneumonia.
- Maintain proper hygiene. The bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia can spread, and maintaining proper hygiene by washing your hands and cleaning commonly used surfaces can reduce your risk of contracting harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking weakens the immune system and can intensify pneumonia systems. Talk to your doctor about ways to stop smoking if you’re having trouble quitting.
- Exercise and eat a well-balanced diet. The better you care for your body through exercise and diet, the stronger your muscles and immune system will be. And the healthier your body is, the easier it will be to fight bacteria and viruses.
How Visiting Angels Can Assist Clients With Pneumonia
If you're a senior living in Jasper or the surrounding communities and need assistance while recovering from pneumonia, the team at Visiting Angels can help with our respite care program.
Respite care is our temporary care service. Caregivers assist with various household tasks such as housekeeping, cooking, medication reminders, and transportation. They can also help with more intimate tasks such as grooming, bathing, mobility, and toileting.
Contact us online with questions or schedule a complimentary consultation to discover how at-home care services with Visiting Angels can help you.