As the temperature continues to drop and the air grows colder in Knoxville, it is easy to become more susceptible to pneumonia. When shopping at Anthropologie or picking up your order from The Artisan Cakery, it’s easy to ignore your symptoms.  Pneumonia is a lung infection that can begin with cold- or flu-like symptoms but may quickly progress into something more serious. It develops when bacteria, viruses, or fungi cause the lungs’ air sacs to fill with fluid, making it difficult to breathe and lowering oxygen levels. 

Are you feeling achy, feverish, or short of breath? AFC Knoxville is located right in the heart of the city, across the street from Krispy Kreme and next door to Coulter Family Dentistry, where our skilled AFC Providers are ready to treat your symptoms. Stop by today and get back to feeling your best! 

Common Symptoms of Pneumonia 

While pneumonia can appear differently depending on age and overall health, some of the most common symptoms include: 

• Fatigue  

• 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 muscle aches 

In infants, seniors, and people with chronic medical conditions, symptoms may be more subtle, such as a sudden loss of appetite, confusion, or extreme fatigue. 

When to Seek Care 

If symptoms seem more severe than a typical cold or flu, it’s important to seek care. For residents in Knoxville, TN, our AFC Providers provide a thorough exam to determine the best kind of treatment. 

During your visit, our staff will: 

• Review your health history and current symptoms 

• Listen to lung sounds and check oxygen levels 

• Order diagnostic tests such as a chest X-ray or blood work 

Treatment is based on the type and severity of pneumonia: 

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia 

• Antivirals in some viral cases 

• Oxygen therapy or corticosteroids if breathing is significantly impaired 

Supportive care is equally important. Rest, hydration, fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and close monitoring can speed recovery. 

Prevention Tips 

You can lower your risk of pneumonia by taking steps such as: 

• Staying up to date on flu and pneumococcal vaccines 

• Washing hands frequently and practicing good hygiene 

• Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke 

• Keeping indoor air clean and properly ventilated 

How AFC Knoxville Can Help 

Our AFC Providers and staff are highly experienced in treating pneumonia and its symptoms. Our clinics are open seven days a week and accept most major insurance plans. If you have questions or need to schedule a visit, call us at (865)539-9299. Our team looks forward to helping you breathe easier!