Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lung that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. The causes and symptoms vary depending on the infecting organism and age of the patient. Treatment involves antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia, antivirals for some viral cases, and antifungals for fungal pneumonia. Prevention methods include vaccinations for specific types of pneumonia as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

1. PneumoniaPrepared by: Brian Kieth C. Gonzales

3. What is pneumonia?Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lung, and can be caused by nearly any class of organism known to cause human infections, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

4. Different organisms are more frequently encountered by different age groups. Viruses cause the majority of pneumonias in young children (especially respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza and influenza viruses, and adenovirus). Adults are more frequently infected with bacteria (such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Staphylococcus aureus). Pneumonia in older children and young adults is often caused by the bacteria-like Mycoplasma pneumoniae .

5. Bacterial PneumoniaBacterial pneumonia is an infection that causes irritation, swelling, and congestion in the lungs. It is also called bacterial pneumonitis.

6. Viral Pneumoniais an infection or inflammation of the lungs. It can be in just one part of the lungs, or it can involve many parts.

7. Mycoplasmal pneumoniaIt is a type of atypical pneumonia. It is caused by the bacteria M. pneumoniae. This type of pneumonia usually affects people younger than 40.

8. Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP)A fungal infection of the lungs that is particularly common and life-threatening in premature or malnourished infants and in immunosuppressed persons. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is the most common opportunistic infection in people infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

9. Symptoms of PneumoniaWith bacterial pneumonia, the person may experience:

10. shaking

11. chills

12. chattering teeth

13. severe chest pain

14. cough that produces rust-colored or greenish mucus

15. very high fever

16. sweating

17. rapid breathing

18. rapid pulse rateWith viral pneumonia, the person may experience:feverdry coughheadachemuscle pain and weaknessWith mycoplasma pneumonia, the person may experience:violent coughing attackschillsfevernauseavomiting

19. bluish color to lips and nail beds