Pneumonia

Pneumonia

Pneumonia (pneumonia) is an infectious disease of the lungs that occurs either as an independent disease or as a complication of other diseases. Pneumonia is not spread from person to person. The causative agents are various bacteria (pneumococci, streptococci, staphylococci) and viruses.

The development of the disease is facilitated by unfavorable conditions - severe hypothermia, significant physical and neuropsychic overload, intoxication and other factors that reduce the body's resistance. They can lead to activation of the microbial flora present in the upper respiratory tract and the development of pneumonia.

According to the nature of the course, acute and chronic pneumonia are distinguished, and according to the prevalence of the process - lobar (damage to the entire lobe of the lung) and focal (bronchopneumonia).

Acute pneumonia occurs suddenly, lasts from several days to several weeks and ends in most cases with complete recovery.

Chronic pneumonia can be the outcome of acute or occur as a complication of chronic bronchitis, as well as with foci of infection in the paranasal sinuses and upper respiratory tract. A significant role is played by factors that contribute to the weakening of the body and its allergic restructuring.

Treatment of pneumonia must be carried out as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor. The complete elimination of the disease is facilitated by various physiotherapeutic procedures used simultaneously with antibacterial treatment.

Prevention includes measures to strengthen the body, fight bad habits, eliminate focal infections, and improve working and living conditions.

In children, pneumonia often develops against the background of influenza and acute respiratory diseases. When the first signs of the disease appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. It is important to accurately follow all of its instructions for the child’s successful recovery.