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Pneumonia

An inflammatory disease of the lung tissue caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infection.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung tissue caused by an infectious agent. Filling of the air sacs (alveoli) with fluid or inflammatory cells disrupts gas exchange. The most common cause is bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae), followed by viruses and atypical microorganisms.

Community-acquired and hospital-acquired pneumonia differ in their causative-agent profiles; treatment approaches are tailored accordingly. The disease is more severe in the elderly, infants, and immunocompromised individuals.

Vaccination against pneumococcal pneumonia significantly reduces disease incidence and severity in at-risk groups.

Symptoms

High fever and chills
Productive cough (yellow-green or rust-colored sputum)
Shortness of breath and rapid breathing
Pleuritic chest pain (worsened by deep breathing)
General weakness and loss of appetite
In the elderly: confusion, low-grade fever, poor general condition
Coughing up blood (hemoptysis — in some cases)

Risk Factors

Advanced age (over 65) and infancy
Cigarette smoking
Chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma)
Diabetes, heart failure and renal failure
Use of immunosuppressive medications or HIV
Swallowing difficulties and aspiration risk
Being unvaccinated

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If cough is accompanied by high fever and shortness of breath
  • Go to the emergency department if respiratory rate exceeds 30 per minute
  • Oxygen deficiency (bluish lips, altered consciousness)
  • In patients over 75 years, infants and immunocompromised patients when pneumonia is suspected
  • In cases of fever and dyspnea unresponsive to outpatient treatment

Treatment Methods

01
Amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate (first-line in community-acquired pneumonia)
02
Addition of a macrolide or fluoroquinolone for atypical coverage
03
IV antibiotics and oxygen support in cases requiring hospitalization
04
In severe pneumonia potentially requiring intensive care: broad-spectrum combination therapy
05
Plenty of fluid intake, antipyretics and rest
06
Prevention with pneumococcal and influenza vaccines

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.