What Makes Pneumonia A Vital Threat?

Pneumonia, which results in the inflammation of the lungs, has affected human beings from a very early period in history. Though it is true that Pneumonia can no longer kill at the rates that used to be associated with it, it still manages to take around 4 million deaths worldwide, every year. Antibiotics and vaccines, which came around in the 20^th century, played a vital role in curbing the menace of Pneumonia. But the developing countries still see very high rates of mortality among Pneumonia patients.

People with weak immune systems, especially small children and the aged, are most vulnerable if hit by Pneumonia. The reasons why Pneumonia takes a terminal swing in case of small children and the aged are their underdeveloped or weakened immune systems respectively. It is especially dangerous, as in these two cases, Pneumonia usually accompanies other illnesses like cough, cold, asthma, diabetes, etc., thereby complicating the situation further. Additionally, the treatment of Pneumonia depends on the type of infection responsible. On the lines of infection, Pneumonia can be classified into Bacterial Pneumonia, Viral Pneumonia, and Mycoplasma Pneumonia.

Although Pneumonia can be detected by Lung Tests, Chest X-rays, and blood tests, etc., it is very easy to confuse Pneumonia with common cough and cold. Thus, it is very important to ensure a visit to a reputed Respiratory Doctor if any difficulties are encountered while breathing. Make sure that the Chest Clinic you are visiting also has the requisite resources and facilities to ensure the prevention of Pneumonia along with the cure. Programs aiding the quitting of smoking and other such facilities will go a long way in keeping you and your family safe from the threat of Pneumonia.