Pneumonia

About Pneumonia

Pneumonia is infection of the lung parenchyma, most commonly bacterial (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus, Mycoplasma) or viral. It causes cough, fever, shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain, and sometimes confusion in older adults. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by a chest X-ray. Outpatient treatment for healthy adults uses oral amoxicillin or a macrolide; patients with comorbidities or recent antibiotics may need broader regimens. Hospitalization is considered for low oxygen saturation, hemodynamic instability, severe respiratory distress, or social factors preventing safe home care.