Chapter 2

Pneumonia: An Inflammation of Lungs

Muhammad Imran Qadir and Sadaf Noor

Abstract

Inflammation of the lungs due to the attack of Streptococcus pneumonia bacterium is termed as pneumonia. Only one or both lungs may be affected. People of less developed countries are at substantial risk of suffering from pneumonia. Cough, high fever, breathing problems, and chest pain are some common symptoms of pneumonia. Chest X-ray, blood test, bronchoscopy are diagnostic methods to identify pneumonia. Certain antibiotics such as Penicillin, Augmentin, Erythromycin, Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, and Fluoroquinolones are used for the treatment of pneumonia. Vaccines are also available such as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23; Pneumovax). A healthy lifestyle including quitting smoking, hand washing, proper sleep, a healthy diet, and exercise strengthens the immune system and reduces the chances of pneumonia.

Total Pages: 6-10 (5)

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