As temperatures continue to drop in Cleveland, signs of pneumonia could be confused with a severe cold or the flu. Whether you are having lunch with friends at Aubrey’s or bowling with your family at Leisure Time Bowling, don’t overlook or ignore your symptoms. Pneumonia is a lung infection that often starts 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. Come by AFC Cleveland to be checked for pneumonia.
Feeling run-down or short of breath during your routine Walmart trip? Stop by AFC Cleveland, just down the street, where our AFC Providers are ready to help. At AFC Cleveland, we are committed to treating your symptoms with expert care and supporting your recovery.
Common Symptoms of Pneumonia
Pneumonia can look different depending on age and health, but typical signs include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Persistent cough, sometimes producing yellow or green mucus
- Fever and chills
- Chest pain that worsens when breathing deeply or coughing
- Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
- Headaches or body aches
In infants, seniors and people with chronic health conditions, symptoms may be less obvious, such as loss of appetite, confusion or sudden fatigue.
When to Seek Care
If symptoms seem more severe than a typical cold or flu, visit us in Cleveland for an evaluation. Immediate emergency care is recommended if you or a loved one experiences severe shortness of breath, bluish lips or face, sharp chest pain or sudden confusion.
Treating Pneumonia
During your visit, we will:
- Review your health history and current symptoms
- Check lung sounds and oxygen levels
- Order diagnostic tests such as a chest X-ray or blood work
Treatment depends on the cause and severity:
- Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
- Antivirals in certain viral cases
- Oxygen therapy or corticosteroids if breathing is significantly impaired
Supportive care is just as important. Rest, hydration, fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and close monitoring can help recovery.
Prevention Tips
Lowering your risk of pneumonia is possible. We recommend:
- Staying up to date with flu and pneumococcal vaccines
- Practicing good hand hygiene
- Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
- Keeping indoor air clean and well-ventilated
How AFC Cleveland Can Help
After your morning coffee at Simple Brew Cafe, drop by AFC Cleveland to be checked out for pneumonia. Our providers and staff are well-versed in treating pneumonia and all its’ symptoms. We are open seven days a week and accept most major insurances. If you have any further questions or concerns, please give us a call at (423)458-1426. Our AFC Providers look forward to hearing from you!
