As temperatures start to drop in Northshore Chattanooga, it can be easy to confuse the early signs of pneumonia with a severe cold or the flu. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast at Big Bad Breakfast or dropping off your pet at Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, it’s important not to overlook symptoms that could indicate a more serious lung infection. It’s easy to ignore symptoms of pneumonia when you have a class booked at Orange Theory. Take some time to visit AFC Chattanooga Northshore and let our AFC Providers help you breathe a little easier.  

Pneumonia often begins with cold- or flu-like symptoms but can quickly become serious. It occurs when bacteria, viruses, or fungi cause the lungs’ air sacs to fill with fluid, making it hard to breathe and reducing oxygen levels. When you visit AFC Chattanooga Northshore, our AFC Providers are ready and equipped to help diagnose and treat your symptoms. Stop by and be checked for pneumonia today. 

Common Symptoms of Pneumonia 

Pneumonia can appear differently depending on age and overall health, but typical signs include: 

• Fatigue or weakness 

• Persistent cough, sometimes producing yellow or green mucus 

• Fever and chills 

• Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing 

• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing 

• Headaches or body aches 

For infants, seniors, and those with chronic health conditions, symptoms may be subtler, such as loss of appetite, confusion, or sudden fatigue. 

When to Seek Care 

If your symptoms feel more intense than a usual cold or flu, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. Emergency care is necessary if you experience severe shortness of breath, bluish lips or face, sharp chest pain, or sudden confusion. 

Treating Pneumonia 

Treatment depends on the cause and severity: 

• Bacterial pneumonia: Antibiotics 

• Certain viral cases: Antivirals 

• Significant breathing difficulties: Oxygen therapy or corticosteroids 

Supportive care is just as essential. Rest, hydration, fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and careful monitoring can all help with recovery. 

Prevention Tips 

You can take steps to reduce your risk of pneumonia: 

• Stay current on flu and pneumococcal vaccines 

• Practice good hand hygiene 

• Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke 

• Keep indoor air clean and well-ventilated 

How AFC Chattanooga Northshore Can Help 

By being aware of the symptoms and taking preventive measures, residents of Chattanooga Northshore can better protect their lung health during the colder months. If you have further concerns or questions, please give us a call at (423)259-5997. Our AFC Providers look forward to helping you and your family soon.