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Viral Pneumonia

Lung infection caused by viruses, accounting for a significant share of community-acquired pneumonia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Viral Pneumonia?

Viral pneumonia is an inflammatory disease caused by respiratory viruses infecting the lung parenchyma. Major pathogens include influenza, SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza, adenovirus and metapneumovirus.

The clinical picture spans a wide spectrum from mild upper respiratory symptoms to severe respiratory failure and ARDS. In immunocompromised patients, CMV, herpes and varicella-zoster viruses can also cause severe pneumonia.

PCR testing of nasal or nasopharyngeal swabs is the diagnostic gold standard. Chest X-ray and CT may show ground-glass opacities, bilateral infiltrates and peribronchial thickening.

Treatment is largely supportive; specific antivirals are available, including oseltamivir for influenza, remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for SARS-CoV-2 and ribavirin for RSV.

Symptoms

Fever, chills and general malaise
Dry or scant sputum cough
Dyspnea and tachypnea
Muscle and joint aches (myalgia)
Headache and sore throat
Hypoxemia and cyanosis (in severe cases)

Risk Factors

Age over 65 and under 5
Immunosuppression (transplantation, chemotherapy, HIV)
Chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma)
Heart failure and diabetes
Pregnancy (especially influenza risk)

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • When dyspnea and high fever coexist
  • When SpO2 falls below 94% or breathing is rapid
  • When any respiratory infection occurs in immunocompromised individuals

Treatment Methods

01
Supportive care (hydration, fever control, oxygen)
02
Influenza: oseltamivir (within first 48 hours)
03
SARS-CoV-2: nirmatrelvir/ritonavir or remdesivir (high-risk)
04
RSV: ribavirin (in immunocompromised)
05
Oxygen therapy and NIV/mechanical ventilation in severe cases
06
Antibiotics if bacterial superinfection develops

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

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

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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.