After avoiding the flu, you wake up one day with a cough and can’t help but worry. You decide to skip your workout plans at Planet Fitness and visit urgent care to rule out anything serious. While you might think it’s just the flu, pneumonia often mimics those symptoms early on. Pneumonia is a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can affect one or both lungs and ranges from mild to severe.
What is Pneumonia?
A bacterial or viral infection, like the flu, can cause pneumonia by triggering lung inflammation. This leads to fluid or pus buildup in the lungs, which blocks airways and causes coughing and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia’s severity depends on overall health, age, and medical history.
How Did I Catch Pneumonia?
Pneumonia occurs when germs infect the lungs, often spreading through coughing or sneezing. It can happen year-round, whether on a walk, at the gym, or during a work meeting.
Some factors may increase your likelihood of catching pneumonia, including:
- Smoking
- Drinking
- Recent cold or flu
- In a hospital for other treatments
- Under the age of 2
- Over the age of 65
- Weakened immune system
- Exposure to toxic fumes or polluted air
What Are Pneumonia Symptoms?
Pneumonia symptoms vary but often begin with mild fever, dry cough, and fatigue. As it progresses, symptoms may include:
- Chest pain
- Wet cough with phlegm
- Chills
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Body aches
Infants and older adults may experience fewer or subtler symptoms, making it harder to detect and treat early.
When To Visit an Urgent Care
Seek urgent care if pneumonia is suspected, especially for high-risk groups like infants, seniors, or those with chronic illnesses or weak immune systems. Severe symptoms like fever over 102°F, chest pain, or difficulty breathing also require immediate attention.
Bluish lips or fingers mean it’s time to visit the ER.
What To Expect at AFC Urgent Care?
Pneumonia treatment depends on the type of infection. Our providers diagnose it through medical history, a physical exam, and tests like bloodwork or X-rays. Treatment may include:
- Antivirals for viral pneumonia
- Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
- Steroids for severe lung inflammation
Visit us for expert care and treatment.
