The Danger of Pneumonia: Who Is Most at Risk?

You probably know someone who has had pneumonia or even had it yourself. Millions of people get pneumonia in the United States every year, and about a million of them are hospitalized because of it. Understanding your risk and taking appropriate precautions can help keep you healthy. 

Dr. Samuel Fink and our staff provide personalized internal medicine and primary care services to everyone, from people who are healthy to those who have multiple chronic conditions. 

We want you to remember that pneumonia is common. However, your risk of complications varies depending on your age, overall health, lifestyle, and other factors. 

In this blog, our providers of the best internal medicine in Tarzana, California, explore pneumonia in detail. 

A pneumonia primer

Before we discuss how you can assess your risk of complications from pneumonia, you need to understand what happens when you have pneumonia. This infection targets your lungs and develops because pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or fungi grow and cause inflammation. 

When the small air sacs in your lungs become inflamed, your lungs fill with fluid. That makes it difficult to breathe. When you can’t breathe well, there’s not enough oxygen in your bloodstream. 

Here are some of the symptoms of pneumonia: 

• Chest pain, especially when you cough or take a deep breath
• Fever, sweating, chills
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Coughing
• Problems with cognition

Although all of the symptoms can be concerning, people are often especially alarmed by the chest pain, which can make it difficult to take a deep breath. 

The danger of pneumonia

Since it’s a common infection, it may seem like pneumonia is nothing to worry about. However, it can progress quickly and cause serious complications. The infection can spread from your lungs to your bloodstream, leading to a life-threatening immune response called sepsis. 

Lung abscesses, which are pockets of pus in your lungs, can form. And, if it isn’t treated, pneumonia can cause respiratory failure. 

If you have a condition that weakens your immune system, pneumonia can be particularly dangerous because your body isn’t well-equipped to fight off an infection. 

Even if you’re healthy and forgo prompt treatment, pneumonia can go from mild to life-threatening in a short time. 

Assessing your personal risk 

Anyone can develop pneumonia, and everyone needs treatment if they have it. If you have any of the symptoms, seek medical care. 

Some people should be extra cautious because they are at risk of developing severe complications. People who are most at risk include: 

Elderly adults and infants

People 65 years old or older and children two and younger are especially prone to pneumonia. Your immune system becomes weaker as you age, making it more challenging to fend off infection. Young children don’t yet have fully developed immune systems, making them more vulnerable to the pathogens that cause pneumonia. 

Those with chronic illnesses

Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and many other conditions make it more likely you’ll have complications if you develop pneumonia. Some chronic conditions hamper the function of your immune system, and some are treated with drugs that suppress your immune system. 

Hospitalized people or those who live in long-term care facilities also have a higher risk of getting pneumonia. If a person is on a ventilator or another invasive device is being used for treatment, they are at an even higher risk. 

Smokers or those with substance use disorders

Smoking and vaping damage your lungs, making them more vulnerable to pneumonia. Similarly, alcohol and drug use can impair your immune system, so it’s more challenging to fight off pneumonia. 

One of the dangers of pneumonia is how quickly it can progress. For high-risk groups, such as smokers and those who use illicit drugs, this can happen quickly. 

To protect yourself, get vaccinated if Dr. Fink recommends it. Also, practice good hygiene and wash your hands frequently. Finally, get medical attention immediately if you have any symptoms. 

Although pneumonia is serious, recognizing symptoms and getting treatment right away can protect you. To learn more about your risk and how to protect yourself, schedule an appointment with Dr. Fink today.