Pneumonia is a medical condition characterized by an inflammation of the lungs caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. Early symptoms of pneumonia often resemble the seasonal flu; however, they may progress to more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest and/or abdominal pain. Certain types of bacteria can be serious or life threatening, so people should seek prompt medical treatment if they think they or a family member might have pneumonia.
Flu-like Symptoms
According to MayoClinic.com, the early stages of pneumonia often produce symptoms that mimic the influenza virus. These symptoms may include a general malaise, fatigue and noticeable loss of energy, loss of appetite, muscle or body aches and headache. People may also sweat, have clammy skin and/or have the shaking chills.
The National Institutes of Health note that pneumonia also causes a mild-to-severe fever and a cough that often produces a yellowish or greenish mucous or in some cases, bloody sputum. If individuals develop a persistent fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, they should contact their doctor promptly for appropriate medical care.
Changes in Breathing
Pneumonia can cause a variety of changes in breathing in both children and adults. According to KidsHealth, pneumonia sufferers may wheeze, have a hard time catching their breath or notice their breathing becoming more rapid or labored. Some people with milder cases of pneumonia may have no problems breathing at all, or may only experience shortness of breath during exercise or activities like climbing stairs or walking uphill, according to the National Institutes of Health.
When breathing becomes significantly impaired, it can cause serious symptoms of cyanosis--a bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes of the lips and beds of the fingernails caused by oxygen deprivation. The chest muscles of children with significantly impaired breathing may also noticeably retract and expand with every breath. They may also make a grunting noise and have flared nostrils when attempting to breathe, according to the National Institutes of Health. Any adult or child having significant problems breathing or experiencing symptoms of cyanosis should seek immediate medical care.
Pain
Pneumonia can cause sharp pain in the chest that worsens when the patient breathes or coughs. This pain is caused by pleurisy--an inflammation of the lining of the lungs that can lead to stabbing pain when inhaling deeply, according to MayoClinic.com.
If pneumonia occurs in the lower region of the lungs, it can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, according to KidsHealth.
