Pneumonia is a common problem now these days. From newborns to adults, it can hit people with mild to severe symptoms. Well, in the case of adults, it can cause serious complications too. In most cases, it is difficult for them to cope with the symptoms, and it interferes with their lifestyle as well. Let’s explore a bit more about it, along with the 4 stages of pneumonia.
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a lung infection either in one or both lungs caused by viruses, bacteria, or another type of infection. Due to infection, the air sacs in the lungs become inflamed, and fluid or pus occupies a place in them. This condition reaches:
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Breathing trouble
- Cough
- Chills
- And some other symptoms.
Along with that, it is classified on the basis of the areas of the lung it affects.
- Bronchopneumonia: It is a condition when the infection affects both the lungs.
- Lobar pneumonia: It is a condition when one or more lobes or sections of the lungs have an effect.
Symptoms of Pneumonia in 2022:
The common symptoms of pneumonia:-
- Constant cough
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty in breathing
- Rapid and shallow breathing
- Fever
- Fast heartbeat
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- Chills and shaking
Please evaluate these indicators and speak with your doctor if you believe your pneumonia is improving.
Stages of Pneumonia in 2022:
There are 4 stages of pneumonia, and accordingly, the doctor will come up with the best medication to treat the condition. These are as follows:-
1. Congestion:
Congestion is stage 1 of pneumonia, and it occurs within 24 hours of infection. The bacteria are present in the lungs, but white blood cells are sufficient enough to fight the infection. The lungs appear to be red due to increased blood flow, and swelling of the lung tissue will also take place. Also, the capillaries in the alveolar walls will be congested, and infection spread to the hilum and pleura. A person experience coughing and deep breathing issues in this stage.
2. Red Hepatization:
Red hepatization is the second stage, and it takes place after 48 to 72 hours. This stage lasts for almost 4 days. In this condition, the lungs become more dry, granular, and airless. The appearance resembles the consistency of the liver. The RBC and white cells, along with bacteria and cellular debris, clogged the Airways. In this condition, a person experiences different symptoms, and they may have an encounter with fever as well.
3. Grey Hepatization:
Grey hepatization is the third stage of pneumonia, and it is an avascular stage. It occurs from the 4th to the 6th day and lasts for almost eight days. The lungs acquire a grey or yellow color and have the same consistency as the liver as in stage 2. Macrophage, which is a large type of blood cell, starts to form and leads to the persistence of fibrin exudate during this stage.
4. Resolution:
Resolution is the last stage of pneumonia or the complete recovery state, which takes place when the exudate experiences progressive enzymatic digestion. It takes place for 8 to 10 days, and in this condition, the fluids and breakdown products from cell destruction get reabsorbed. The macrophages are responsible for helping to clear the white blood cells and leftover debris. In this condition, the Airways and air sacs will return to normal lung function.
You should be aware of the different stages of pneumonia so you can talk with your doctor appropriately.
6 Types of Pneumonia:
The six types of pneumonia are as follows:-
1. Hospital-acquired Pneumonia:
Hospital-acquired pneumonia takes place during the stay at the hospital. It is a serious condition as it is resistant to antibiotics.
2. Community-acquired Pneumonia:
Community-acquired pneumonia indicates that you are in touch with someone who is infected with it. It takes place due to viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Vaccines are helpful in preventing the flu virus.
3. Bacterial Pneumonia:
Bacterial pneumonia is similar to community-acquired pneumonia, especially in adults. If you get in touch with someone who sneezes or coughs and the bacteria-filled droplets acquire a place in your body while you are breathing.
4. Viral Pneumonia:
Viral pneumonia takes place due to viruses that are responsible for bringing out cold and flu. The symptoms are sometimes serious and relatable to flu. A person experiences headaches, tiredness, fever, dry cough, stuffy nose, weakness, and so on.
5. Fungal Pneumonia:
Fungal pneumonia is a condition that happens due to a fungal infection. In the initial stages, it is indicated by coughing and sneezing constantly.
6. Walking Pneumonia:
Walking pneumonia is among those types of pneumonia which is less severe, and it is also known as atypical pneumonia. The symptoms are different and can be from mild to severe.
Causes of Pneumonia in 2022:
In general, the major cause of pneumonia is the Introduction of bacteria, viruses, and fungi into the human body. It can take place due to any condition, whether a person has got in touch with a person having pneumonia or has been a part of surroundings where the bacteria-filled droplets are present.
When to See a Doctor?
If you are someone who is experiencing some symptoms or feeling like your body is not working properly, don’t delay approaching the doctor. Well, if you are Rajasthan, you are fortunate because the Pulmonologist in Jaipur is there to help you out. You can approach Dr. Pankaj Gulati as he is the best one in the town and have years of experience in treating such condition.
Discuss the problem you are facing so that he can suggest you the best possible treatment for the condition you are dealing with.