This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli), which may fill with fluid or pus. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or, less commonly, fungi, and can range from mild to severe.
2. What are the common symptoms?
Symptoms include cough (sometimes with green or yellow mucus), fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing, fatigue, and sometimes nausea or vomiting.
3. What causes pneumonia?
Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria (most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae), viruses (including flu or COVID-19), or fungi (rare). Risk factors include smoking, chronic illness, weakened immunity, and age (very young or elderly).
4. How is pneumonia diagnosed?
GPs usually diagnose pneumonia based on symptoms, physical examination, and listening to the lungs. A chest X-ray is often used to confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests or sputum tests may help identify the causative organism.
5. How is pneumonia treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. Bacterial pneumonia is treated with antibiotics, viral pneumonia is usually managed with rest, fluids, and symptom relief, and severe cases may require hospitalization. Oxygen therapy or inhalers may be needed in some cases.
6. How long does pneumonia last?
Mild pneumonia can improve within 1–3 weeks with treatment, but fatigue and cough can persist for several weeks. Severe pneumonia may take longer to fully recover, especially in older adults or people with chronic illness.
7. Can pneumonia be prevented?
Yes. Vaccines such as the pneumococcal vaccine and annual flu vaccine can help prevent pneumonia. Good hand hygiene, not smoking, and prompt treatment of respiratory infections also reduce risk.
8. Who is at higher risk of severe pneumonia?
High-risk groups include older adults, infants, people with chronic conditions (heart, lung, kidney, liver), immunocompromised individuals, and smokers. These groups may need closer monitoring or hospital care.
9. Is pneumonia contagious?
Some types of pneumonia, especially viral or bacterial forms, can spread through droplets from coughs or sneezes. Good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals reduce the risk.
10. When should I see a GP for pneumonia?
Seek urgent medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, blue lips or fingertips, confusion, or worsening symptoms. Early medical assessment is important for effective treatment and to prevent serious complications.
