Pneumonia is a respiratory illness that can occur in one or both lungs. It may be infectious or inflammatory. Medical experts often categorize pneumonia depending on whether the patient contracted it in a health care facility or elsewhere. The cause of pneumonia determines the type of treatment required. Groups more susceptible to pneumonia are children, elderly people, smokers, heavy alcohol users and those with chronic diseases.
Bacteria
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that bacteria are the leading cause of adult pneumonia. Several different bacterial organisms can find their way into the lungs, leading to pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia is treated by antibiotics, either given orally, by shot or through the vein.
Viruses
Viruses are another common cause of pneumonia, and the most common cause in children. A wide variety of viruses can be responsible and treatment may include rest, drinking extra liquids, or an anti-viral medicine. This medication may be given orally or through the vein. Contracting viral pneumonia may make you susceptible to developing bacterial pneumonia at the same time.
Fungus and Parasites
Rarely, a fungus may enter the lungs and cause fungal pneumonia. Treatment for this pneumonia is anti-fungal medication delivered orally or through the vein. Some types of fungal pneumonia improve without medication; others require surgical intervention. Parasites, such as worms, rarely cause pneumonia in the United States. This type of pneumonia is treated by oral medications or medicine delivered through the vein.
Aspiration
Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, vomit or stomach juices enter your lungs. The Mayo Clinic reports that aspiration can lead to pneumonia. This can happen due to difficulty swallowing, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), dementia, seizure, head trauma, inebriation or other reasons. Antibiotics are typically given--either orally, as a shot, or through the vein. You may require suctioning, oxygen or the assistance of a ventilator or other critical care equipment.
Inhaled Agents
Pneumonia may be caused by inhaled agents such as gases, fumes or dust particles. Cleaning agents such as swimming pool cleaners are often at fault. Treatments include oxygen, assistance with breathing and sometimes an antidote. Steroid medications, given orally or through the vein, may be ordered.
Other Causes
Rarely, other causes for pneumonia are found. Smoking is felt to be responsible for some cases, and occasionally, no cause is ever determined.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing;" Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
- Mayo Clinic: Pneumonia: Causes
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Pneumonia: Causes
