STOP Pneumonia Before it Starts!

Pneumonia is one of the world’s biggest killers. Every year, 2.5 million people die from pneumonia and its complications. COVID-19 has made those numbers soar. It is estimated that an additional 3.6 million people around the world will die from COVID-related pneumonia. No other infection causes this much death and destruction.

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs. There are many causes of pneumonia, which is why it is so difficult to prevent. However, most cases of pneumonia are caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that make their way into the lungs.

The severity of pneumonia depends on many factors, including your overall health, your age, and your lung condition. Smokers and those with chronic lung diseases are especially vulnerable to pneumonia and its effects.

With the recent flu and COVID outbreaks, one of the best ways to prevent getting pneumonia is to take precautions this winter. Health and safety experts suggest taking the following steps to prevent pneumonia before it starts:

  • Get the flu vaccine
  • Get the pneumococcal vaccine
  • Get the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters
  • Practice good handwashing
  • Wear masks when indoors and around others
  • Follow good social distancing
  • Don’t smoke
  • Practice a healthy lifestyle

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Pneumonia symptoms and treatment

The symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the severity of the illness. However, if you suddenly experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical treatment immediately. Taking a COVID-19 test or a flu test can help you determine if you are at a greater risk for complications, such as developing pneumonia.

  • Cough
  • Chills
  • Chest pain
  • Breathing pain
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Coughing up mucus
  • Fever
  • Fatigue and malaise
  • Headaches

Diagnosing Pneumonia

To diagnose pneumonia, your doctor may order a chest CT scan. A CT scan uses energy to scan the lungs. This scan then creates a three-dimensional image that can help doctors detect fluid in the lungs. Unlike a simple chest x-ray, a chest CT gives doctors the ability to see finer details in the lungs, bronchi, and trachea, which means it can detect cases of pneumonia better than traditional x-rays.

If you are diagnosed with pneumonia, follow doctor’s orders precisely and take care of yourself. This may include getting rest, taking antibiotics, and undergoing breathing treatments.

Schedule Your Chest CT Today

At ImageCare Radiology, we offer a variety of diagnostic imaging services to help diagnose and treat pneumonia, including MRIs, CT Scans, and other chest imaging. If you get pneumonia or any upper respiratory infection, a chest CT or chest x-ray will give your doctor the tools they need to find the right treatment for you. Our radiology staff provides exceptional services whenever you need us. if your doctor has requested any type of chest imaging service, give us a call today at 973-871-3333 to schedule an appointment or complete our convenient online appointment request form.