Pneumonia: Who gets it, why it occurs and how to prevent it
Pneumonia is a serious lung disease that is the second-most common cause of death in Singapore, behind cancer. Pneumonia accounted for almost 20 per cent of all deaths in the country in 2014-2016, according to the Ministry of Health.
“Pneumonia is also one of the top 10 reasons for hospitalisation, with more than 14,000 admissions in 2014 due to it,” says Dr Jansen Koh Meng Kwang, Deputy Chief and Consultant Respiratory Physician, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine (RCCM), Changi General Hospital.
What is pneumonia and why does it occur?
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs that is usually caused by bacteria (e.g. Streptococcus pneumonia) and viruses (e.g. the influenza virus). It can also be caused by fungi, though this is less common.
Symptoms vary from mild to severe, depending on the type of germ contracted, and factors such as your age and overall health. Viral pneumonia is typically mild and its symptoms are similar to those of a cold or flu, but may last longer.
Infection causes inflammation in the tiny air sacs (called alveoli) in one or both lungs. These air sacs may fill with pus and other fluids, which in turn affects the normal functioning of the lungs and causes symptoms such as cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Chest pain, body pain, fatigue, headache, are other symptoms of pneumonia. Children with pneumonia may also experience vomiting and bluish skin, lips or fingertips.
Pneumonia is most serious in those with a weak immune system, such as infants and young children, people over the age of 65, and those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
A pneumonia infection can be contracted anywhere, even in hospital. Patients on ventilators are at a higher risk of developing hospital-acquired pneumonia.
How is pneumonia treated?
Mild pneumonia can be treated at home with medication to relieve symptoms such as cough, fever and pain. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections, while anti-viral and anti-fungal drugs are prescribed for viral and fungal infections, respectively.
Severe pneumonia, which can lead to lung failure and even death, requires hospitalisation.
Can you prevent pneumonia?
“There are several things you can do to prevent pneumonia,” says Dr Koh. You can:
Stop smoking – Smokers and their children have a higher risk of developing pneumonia.
Practise good hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly and frequently, and cover your mouth whenever you cough and sneeze.
Get vaccinated against pneumonia – this is particularly recommended for older people and those with a chronic health condition.
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