Top 5 Pneumonia Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection of the lungs that is one of the leading causes of death in the country.

Here are the top five questions about pneumonia that you should ask your doctor:

1. Am I at risk for pneumonia?

While anyone can get pneumonia, some people are at higher risk than others. Talk to your doctor to determine if you are at high risk.

2. What vaccines should I get?

Getting the recommended vaccines can significantly lower your risk of developing pneumonia. One of the serious complications of the flu is pneumonia. Getting your annual flu shot is the best way to reduce your risk from the flu and pneumonia.

At-risk children and adults should also get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia. Consult your doctor to determine if you or your child should get the pneumonia vaccine.

3. What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Pneumonia signs and symptoms can vary but common ones include:

Cough, which may produce greenish, yellow or even bloody mucus
Fever, sweating and shaking chills
Shortness of breath
Rapid, shallow breathing
Sharp or stabbing chest pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough
Loss of appetite, low energy, and fatigue
Nausea and vomiting, especially in small children
Confusion, especially in older people

4. What are the different types of pneumonia?

There are several different types of pneumonia including bacterial, viral, mycoplasma, among others. The type of pneumonia determines how it is treated. If you are diagnosed with pneumonia, ask your doctor what kind you have and what treatment is recommended.

5. What other steps can I take to keep my lungs healthy?

Good health habits can help prevent pneumonia and other lung diseases. Practice good oral hygiene and hand washing. If you are at higher risk for pneumonia Avoid crowds, people who are ill and exposure to lung irritants like cigarette smoke and air pollution.

Consult your doctor for more information on pneumonia.

Shop at Watsons for your vitamins, supplements, prescription medications, and other essential healthcare needs. Flu and Pneumonia vaccines are also available. Check Watsons vaccination schedules now!

References:
http://www.pidsphil.org/home/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/003_vol-22-no-2_SANTOS_PNEUMONIA.pdf. Accessed 23 September 2022
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pneumonia/five-top-questions-for-dr. Accessed 23 September 2022
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/pneumo/public/index.html. Accessed 23 September 2022
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pneumonia/symptoms-and-diagnosis. Accessed 23 September 2022