Pneumonia

Stroke Series

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection in one or both of the lungs. It is usually caused by germs such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.

The infection causes the air sacs in the lungs to be inflamed and fill up with fluids or pus.

This causes symptoms such as cough, fever, chills and breathing difficulties.

Who does it affect?

It can affect anyone but is more common in:

• People who are in poor health

• Older adults who are above 65 years old or very young children

• Smoker

• Heavy alcohol drinker

What are the symptoms?

• Sudden onset of high fever

• Chills and sweating

• Shortness of breath

• Sharp chest pain when coughing or deep breathing

• Greenish, rusty or blood stained sputum

• Confusion

• Muscle pain

• Headache

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhoea

What are the problems if pneumonia is not treated?

• Build up of fluids in the lungs (pleural effusion)

• Severe breathing difficulties

• Bacteria in the blood or “blood poisoning” (Septicaemia)

How is it treated?

Pneumonia may be treated at home or in hospital depending on your condition.Treatment at Home (For mild cases)

• You will be given antibiotic pills.

• Most symptoms get better over a few days if the treatment is working.

• See your doctor if your symptoms do not improve over the next two days.

Hospital Treatment

(For more severe cases or if symptoms do not improve after taking antibiotics at home.)

• Chest X-ray, blood and sputum tests may be taken to confirm the diagnosis and the bacteria that causes the infection.

• Antibiotics are usually given through injection or infusion (drip).

• In severe cases, you may need to be admitted to the intensive care unit.

What else can I do?

• Rest and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

• Finish all your antibiotics even when you feel better

• Come for your review appointment How to prevent it?

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.

• Do not smoke. Smoking damages the lining of the airways, putting the lungs at risk of infections.

• Eat more fruit and vegetables.

• Exercise regularly to strengthen your immune system.

• Get vaccinated. Vaccines are available to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia (a serious lung infection) and flu.

• Consult your doctor about getting these shots.

When should I see a doctor after discharge?

• Persistent fever of more than 38.5°C.

• Shortness of breath.

• Chest pain.

• Persistent cough with thick, greenish or yellowish phlegm.

Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group in the north of Singapore. It comprises Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Community Hospital and community extensions such as Admiralty Medical Centre and Wellness Kampung. Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg