Pneumonia is a fatal lung disease that initially manifests as a cold and may progress into complications, including sepsis (blood poisoning) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain). The first preventive measurement you need is vaccination against the disease. If you catch the illness, the type of therapy you receive depends on how severe the infection is. Read on to learn how to treat pneumonia effectively and prevent it in Cheltenham.
What are 3 ways to prevent pneumonia?
- Since the flu frequently triggers pneumonia, protecting yourself from infection through vaccination against the flu is a great way to prevent pneumonia.
- Always wash your hands after using the bathroom, changing a nappy, or wiping your nose or eyes. Also, wash your hands before preparing food.
- As pneumonia frequently accompanies respiratory infections, symptoms that last longer than a few days should be cause for concern. Avoid using tobacco products and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
What is the best way to prevent pneumonia in Cheltenham?
The best ways to prevent pneumonia include:
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Proper rest:
A good rest at home is key when it comes to treatment. If the cause of pneumonia is bacterial, antibiotics are the most effective. However, if a virus is the cause, your immune system needs antibodies to fight off the germ.
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Adequate hydration:
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration as a complication of the disease. A hospital stay may be necessary for more severe conditions.
You may feel better within a few weeks if you begin treatment immediately. Bacteria can develop resistance to an antibiotic if treatment is discontinued halfway through a course.
What is the main cause of pneumonia?
Pneumonia can have a wide range of possible origins in different settings.
- Community-acquired pneumonia may be the most common cause in the general population. Pathogens involved in this cause include the following:
- Bacteria
- Viruses, including COVID-19
- Fungi
- The second most common cause is hospital-acquired pneumonia among patients during hospital stays. Due to other illnesses or compromised immunity, they’re prone to contract the bacteria immediately.
- Like the second one, healthcare staff members may also acquire bacterial pneumonia due to working in long-term care facilities. This type is called healthcare-acquired pneumonia.
- Another cause is aspiration pneumonia, which usually happens when inhaling particles into your lungs due to an abnormal gag reflex caused by brain injury or swallowing problems.
Who should get the pneumonia vaccine in Cheltenham?
The recommendation for age-appropriate vaccination against pneumonia is as follows:
Children younger than 2 years can get the vaccine without any risk. Moreover, a child between the age of 2 to 5 years with certain health conditions such as chronic lung disease, heart problems and diabetes can also get the vaccine.
Adults between the ages of 19 and 64 with asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, or who smoke cigarettes receive the pneumonia vaccine.
All adults over the age of 65 require vaccination against pneumonia.
If a child or adult is at risk of progressing with the disease, additional pneumococcal vaccination is administered in accordance with recommendations.
How do you prevent a cold from turning into pneumonia?
If you catch a cold that lasts more than 7 to 10 days, you should take precautions immediately because it can lead to pneumonia. Symptoms may manifest abruptly or gradually.
These preventive measures may help you prevent a cold:
- Vaccination may not entirely eliminate the hazard, but it can significantly reduce the severity of the infection.
- A sufficient amount of rest can assist you in recovering rapidly from colds and other diseases.
- Improve your health and lifestyle by practising good hygiene, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking.
- Stay hydrated to avoid congestion and dehydration.
Contact us for further queries or book your appointment at Cheltenham Travel Clinic.
