Watch out for pneumonia this winter season. Visit AFC Urgent Care if you’re dealing with a respiratory illness. We’re open every day! 

Respiratory illnesses have a way of slowing you down, fast, especially after too many weeks playing Music Bingo at The Trail House or getting a little carried away during karaoke at Jukebox. When it’s cold and flu season, almost no one is safe from catching a few seasonal sniffles. One of the more serious infections that can develop is pneumonia. If you’re unsure how pneumonia spreads or when to seek care, here’s a clear breakdown. Our friendly and expert team at AFC Indian Trail is here to help you stay informed. 

Visit AFC Indian Trail today! 

What Is Pneumonia? 

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. When these germs travel into the tiny air sacs of your lungs, your immune system responds by creating inflammation. This swelling leads to fluid or pus buildup, which makes breathing more difficult and prevents your lungs from working efficiently. Airways can also become blocked by phlegm, leading to shortness of breath.

Treatment of pneumonia varies based on the cause and severity. Pneumonia may develop in one or both lungs (also known as double pneumonia), which can slightly alter treatment plans.  

Types of Pneumonia 

Pneumonia is grouped by the germ behind the infection: 

Bacterial Pneumonia 

• The most common and often the most severe. 
• More likely to require hospitalization, especially for people with weakened immune systems. 
• Can also cause related infections like sinus infections, ear infections and meningitis. 

Viral Pneumonia 

• Typically resembles the flu and can resolve on its own. 
• Viruses such as RSV, the flu, COVID-19 and the common cold are known to lead to pneumonia.  

Fungal Pneumonia 

• Less common and usually affects immunocompromised individuals. 

Symptoms of Pneumonia 

Symptoms can vary widely depending on the type of pneumonia and a person’s overall health. Higher-risk groups include children under 2, adults over 65, smokers, pregnant women and people with chronic heart or lung conditions or weakened immune systems. 

Common symptoms include: 

• High fever 
• A cough that produces yellow, green or bloody mucus 
• Fatigue 
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath 
• Chest or abdominal pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing 
• Chills and sweating 
• Headaches or body aches 

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice bluish skin, lips or nails. This may indicate cyanosis and requires urgent medical attention. 

Is Pneumonia Contagious? 

The infection itself isn’t contagious, but the germs that cause pneumonia are. According to the American Lung Association: 

• You can catch the bacteria or viruses that may lead to pneumonia. 
• Not everyone exposed will develop pneumonia. 
• You may spread germs even before symptoms appear. 

What Spreads Pneumonia? 

Transmission usually occurs through: 

• Respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or close conversation. 
• Touching contaminated surfaces, then touching your mouth or nose. 

Contagious periods depend on the type: 

• Bacterial pneumonia: Contagious until you’ve been on antibiotics for 48 hours and your fever has resolved. 
• Viral pneumonia: Contagious while symptoms are present (specifically a fever). 
• Fungal pneumonia: Not spread person to person. 
• Walking pneumonia: The most contagious form; can spread 2–4 weeks before symptoms appear and until recovery. 

How Is Pneumonia Treated? 

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe the illness is. In many outpatient cases, the exact germ may not be pinpointed, so care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment options can range from antibiotics for bacterial infections, antifungal medications for fungal pneumonia, or steroids if the inflammation is significant. There is no direct medication to cure viral pneumonia because it often clears on its own. However, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help manage your symptoms. 

Fight Pneumonia with AFC Indian Trail 

If you’re dealing with a persistent cough, fever or breathing discomfort, the team at AFC Indian Trail is here to help. We diagnose pneumonia through: 

• A review of your medical history 
• A thorough physical exam 
• Testing such as bloodwork or chest X-rays 

Once we confirm pneumonia, we’ll guide you toward the right treatment plan, whether that’s antibiotics, antivirals, steroids or supportive care to help you breathe easier. 

Walk in whenever you need us – no appointment required. Our providers are trusted and expert medical professionals with years of experience. You can trust your AFC family to provide prompt, compassionate care for your entire family. Visit us seven days a week!