Common Causes Of Pneumonia

What Are the Causes of Pneumonia?

Pneumonia, a chronic lung infection that is caused by viruses or bacteria, can make breathing difficult and lead to coughing. While anyone can develop pneumonia, babies, young children, and adults with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Treatment options vary, with mild cases often responding to antibiotics at home and severe cases requiring medical attention. Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria commonly cause infections like ear and sinus infections, as well as meningitis, which may need hospitalization. Viral pneumonia, on the other hand, is caused by viruses like the cold, flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It tends to resolve on its own and typically doesn't require specific treatment. Read on to learn more about the causes of pneumonia.

Causes of Pneumonia

Pneumonia occurs when our body's defense mechanism attacks an infection in the alveoli, causing inflammation and fluid leakage. The common causes include

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Community-acquired pneumonia is the most common form of this condition that occurs outside of hospitals or other healthcare facilities. It includes:

• Bacteria: Bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumonia can be spread by touching surfaces contaminated with these species or through coughing and sneezing.

• Fungi: Fungi from soil or bird droppings can cause pneumonia and vary depending on geographic location. Fungi that can cause pneumonia include:
• Pneumocystis jirovecii
• Cryptococcus species
• Histoplasmosis species
• Viruses: Viruses, including COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia.

Some of the viral agents that cause colds and the flu can also cause severe pneumonia and these viruses are the most common pneumonia reasons in children younger than 5 years. Viral pneumonia is usually mild but can be severe in some cases like in case of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) which is considered to be serious viral pneumonia. Other viruses that cause pneumonia are:

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) most commonly occur in infants aged below 2 years
• Common cold (rhinovirus)
• SARS-COV-2 virus
• The flu (influenza virus)
• Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
• Human parainfluenza virus (HPIV)
• Legionnaires’ disease.
• Mycoplasma pneumonia bacteria.
• Pneumococcal disease.
• Pneumocystis pneumonia.

2. Hospital-acquired pneumonia

Hospital stays are one of the main causes of pneumonia in adults, especially for those with weakened immune systems. This type of pneumonia, known as hospital-acquired pneumonia, can be severe since the bacteria causing it are often resistant to antibiotics. Patients in intensive care units who need the use of ventilators are particularly vulnerable to this type of infection.

2. Hospital-acquired pneumonia

Hospital stays are one of the main causes of pneumonia in adults, especially for those with weakened immune systems. This type of pneumonia, known as hospital-acquired pneumonia, can be severe since the bacteria causing it are often resistant to antibiotics. Patients in intensive care units who need the use of ventilators are particularly vulnerable to this type of infection.

3. Health care-acquired pneumonia

This type of bacterial infection is a risk for people living in long-term care facilities and visiting outpatient clinics for treatments such as kidney dialysis. Unfortunately, hospitals are known for harboring bacteria that are difficult to treat with antibiotics. Additionally, lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol can also increase the likelihood of developing pneumonia. It is thus incredibly important to stay informed to protect your health!

Conclusion

If you were wondering “ how is pneumonia caused?”, we hope this has helped. Pneumonia can be a deadly infection if left untreated. But don't worry, it's often curable with proper care. Moreover, there are now vaccines available to help combat pneumococcal disease and other related complications. While they may not guarantee immunity to pneumonia, they can significantly lower the risk of serious issues. Take charge of your health and consult a doctor for personalized advice today!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.