Pneumonitis is an infection of the lungs that causes lung air sacs to fill with fluid or pus. The infecting germ, the patient’s age, and overall health can vary the severity of the disease.
At Make You Well, healthcare providers are equipped to determine the specific type of pneumonia you might have. Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi can all result in pneumonia, and it can affect anyone. However, factors like age, environmental exposure, pre-existing lung diseases, a compromised immune system, and recent illnesses significantly increase the risk of developing pneumonia.
Pulmonary symptoms can range from mild to severe, often including fever, chills, coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
To accurately diagnose pneumonia, a healthcare professional at Make You Well in Colleyville might recommend a chest X-ray to examine the lungs and confirm the presence of pneumonia.
Pneumonia can lead to several complications, such as bacteremia, lung abscess, pleural disorders, kidney failure, and respiratory failure.
If you’re experiencing symptoms indicative of pneumonia, it’s crucial to contact Make You Well immediately to book an appointment for a thorough evaluation.
Bacterial pneumonia is typically more severe, with a rapid onset of fever, productive cough with colored sputum, and significant fatigue. It requires antibiotic treatment. Viral pneumonia (including COVID-19 pneumonia) often develops more gradually, may present with a dry cough, and is managed with supportive care rather than antibiotics. A chest X-ray and lab work help our providers distinguish between the two and guide the appropriate treatment.
Some forms of pneumonia are contagious. Bacterial pneumonia caused by organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae or Mycoplasma pneumoniae can spread through respiratory droplets. Viral pneumonia caused by influenza or COVID-19 is similarly contagious. Practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with vulnerable individuals while ill helps reduce the risk of spread.
Those at highest risk for complications include adults over 65, children under 2, individuals with chronic lung disease (such as COPD or asthma), heart disease, diabetes, or immunocompromising conditions, and those who smoke. Our Colleyville providers assess risk factors when evaluating pneumonia to determine whether outpatient treatment is safe or whether hospitalization is needed.
Yes. Pneumococcal vaccines (which protect against the most common bacterial cause of pneumonia) are an important part of preventive care. The CDC recommends vaccination for all adults 65 and older and for younger adults with certain health conditions. Our providers will review your vaccination history during your preventive care visits and recommend the appropriate pneumococcal vaccine(s) for your age and health status.
