Community-acquired pneumonia primarily affects the lungs. It originates from an infection by bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Streptococcus pneumoniae. It spreads through inhalation of air droplets and can spread rapidly in places with large populations such as hospitals. There are two types of community-acquired pneumonia, which are known as typical and atypical community-acquired pneumonia.
Symptoms of Atypical Community-Acquired Pneumonia
The symptoms seen in atypical community-acquired pneumonia are different from that seen in typical community-acquired pneumonia. The bacteria that causes this type are usually Chlamydia pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The physical symptoms are not obvious and are easy to ignore. Patients gradually develop a low-grade fever. Some patients might have a dry hacking cough with no sputum production. Other symptoms might seem to be flu-like such as body weakness and pain, a sore throat and headaches.
Symptoms of Typical Community-Acquired Pneumonia
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the bacteria responsible for the infection of typical community-acquired pneumonia. Patients quickly develop a high-grade fever and have a cough that produces mucous. This is because of the excess mucous production due to the inflammation in the infected lung. Patients also experience chest pain and heavy difficult breathing as the lungs are not able to receive enough oxygen. Nausea and vomiting is common due to the excess accumulation of acidic content within the lungs.
Other Symptoms
In situations where a patient appears in the emergency room with community-acquired pneumonia, symptoms are different. While there is a very bad hacking cough, there might also be mucous production filled with blood. This is due to severe cell destruction and inflammation within the lungs. Patients complain about lack of oxygen and are seen gasping for air, as there is severe oxygen deprivation, which can only be treated by providing oxygen.
