How to treat bacterial pneumonia. What pathogens cause pneumonia? A radically new technique for the treatment of bacterial pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia is an acute process of an infectious and inflammatory nature in the lung tissues, which is provoked by pathogenic flora and microbes. The most vulnerable individuals are children under 5 years of age and the elderly over 75 years of age. It is necessary to pay attention to the presented pathology due to the fact that it provokes a significant number of complications and a high probability of death.

In accordance with the clinical course, focal (bronchial pneumonia) and lobar (lobar-croupous form) inflammation of the lungs of a bacterial type are identified. The focal form affects certain areas of the lung tissues and adjacent bronchi. If we talk about the lobar form, then it is associated with the parenchyma of the whole lobe of the lung tissues. In 70% of cases, the lower regions of the respiratory system are affected.

A person can develop bacterial pneumonia of a unilateral or bilateral type. The latter occurs as part of a one-time lesion of the pleural region and, in the absence of treatment, is formed.

In accordance with clinical and pathogenetic indicators, bacterial-type pneumonia can be community-acquired (outpatient) or nosocomial (hospital) infection with the formation of symptoms 48-72 hours after the patient was admitted to the hospital. It should be noted that:

bacterial pneumonia can be mild, moderate, severe and problematic;
pneumonia is provoked by hemophilic and other bacteria;
least often, streptococci and meningococci affect the formation of pneumonia.

Risk factors

To understand the nature of the pathology, one should pay attention to what are the risk factors.

The main reason for the formation of a bacterial disease is a recent acute respiratory viral infection.

It weakens the protective forces of the body, negatively affecting the respiratory system.

The next provoking factor is kidney failure, which further weakens the body. It slows down metabolism, impairs immunity and human functionality. A frequent case is a disease with a bacterial form of pathology in the course of treatment from a renal degree of insufficiency (hospital form).

Additional factors that predominantly occur in people over 55 years of age include diseases of the heart and vascular system, as well as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

The next risk factors are immunodeficiency states, namely type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus, persistent alcoholism, AIDS and malignant tumors. If we talk about the risk factor, then this is mechanical ventilation (artificial ventilation of the lungs), the early period after the operation and dysbacteriosis.

Additional factors

Much rarer risk factors that are classified as additional are:

aspiration type;
prolonged disturbances of consciousness;
seizures associated with convulsions and muscle contractions;
diseases of the central nervous system and other neurological pathologies.

Two more factors should be noted, namely general anesthesia and reflux esophagitis, which most negatively affect the state of the respiratory system of young people under 7-8 years old. For a better understanding of the presented pathology, one should understand what its clinical picture is.

Clinical picture

In the standard variant of the pathology, an unexpected oscillatory fever is formed, in which body temperature fluctuates by 5-10 degrees within 24 hours. Also, the condition is characterized by cough urges that are productive in nature and mucopurulent or rusty sputum. In some cases, pleural pain is formed in the sternum.

Patients are disturbed by forced weakness, sudden malaise. The clinical picture is accompanied by headaches, shortness of breath, myalgia and arthralgia, as well as prolonged loss of appetite and a decrease in body index.

Typical for the described disease is the formation of sinus-type tachycardia, arrhythmia and arterial hypotension. The patient may develop symptoms of respiratory, cardiac and renal failure. Given the specificity of the manifestations, it will not be difficult to identify bacterial pneumonia, but what about the rarest signs of pathology?

The rarest manifestations

Rarer varieties and symptoms of the bacterial form of pneumonia are formed in the process of infection of the lung area with anaerobes in the oral cavity or legionella. Their characteristic difference is the systematic development of symptoms, the predominance of manifestations of the extrapulmonary system. Pulmonologists of the legionella type are accompanied by neurological manifestations, dysfunction of the hepatic system and diarrhea.

In older people, the bacterial form of pneumonia is characterized by the following symptoms, such as:

prolonged course with prolonged subfebrile condition;
a noticeable aggravation of well-being and health;
obvious shortness of breath, manifested with minimal exertion and at rest (in the most difficult situations);
aggravation of concomitant pathologies (most often associated with the activity of the heart muscle and the renal system);
dysfunction of the central nervous system and the gradual failure of all organs, as a natural response of the nervous system.

The most specific is the type of the described disease in childhood, because its symptoms are unusual, and recovery can last for 1-2 years.

Form of pathology in children

The childhood form of bacterial pneumonia develops rapidly. Symptoms begin with the usual - general malaise, cough and chest pain, sometimes minor. After that, other signs join the manifestations: shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, inability to inhale or exhale. The presented symptoms should be the reason for contacting a pulmonologist or therapist.

If it is impossible to inhale or exhale, you need to call an ambulance, because you will not be able to cope with this on your own at home. A pulmonologist can stop the condition. After the respiratory rhythm is restored, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis. It will allow you to establish at what stage the bacterial form of pneumonia is located and what means of restoring the body should be used.

With the timely start of therapy, the probability of a quick cure and the absence of complications is 90%. If the child's body is weakened or treatment was started after the formation of critical symptoms, the likelihood of critical consequences and even death increases.

It depends on what type of virus or bacteria the child was infected with. Therefore, you should pay close attention to non-standard symptoms and do not hesitate to contact your therapist and other doctors. In this case, bacterial pneumonia in children will be safe.

Diagnostic Measures

To identify the diagnosis, laboratory and special research methods are used. The following types of analyzes are meant by laboratory:

for the presence of leukocytosis with accommodation of the leukoformula to the left side;
hyponatremia;
increase in the ratio of transaminases;
a study of bacteriological type blood to identify the category of the pathogen;
examination of sputum with a change in color according to Thunder;
examination of bacteriological material obtained in the framework of bronchoalveolar lavage and thoracentesis;
study of the immune status in people with probable immunity deficiency.

Special types of research include x-ray of the sternum, bronchoscopy and examination of the respiratory function, which is necessary as part of the differential diagnosis.

In the most controversial situations, CT of the lung region is used, which allows to identify inflammation or tumor-like processes.

Particular attention is paid to differential diagnosis, which makes it possible to distinguish the presented disease from tuberculosis, pulmonary infarction, contusion of the pulmonary region, vasculitis and other manifestations. The presented diagnostic measures are extremely important for the management of therapy and the elimination of negative consequences.

Methods of therapy

Depending on the severity of the pathology to be tolerated, the recovery process is carried out at home or in the hospital. In any case, a strict diet and the use of antibiotic components are required. Speaking about changing the diet, it should be noted that the use of a sufficient ratio of proteins, an increased use of the vitamin complex A, C and B is required.

To restore the body with bacterial pneumonia, it is necessary to use products saturated with nicotinic acid. Food should be given to the patient in a crushed form, no more than 6-7 times a day. The presented fractional nutrition allows you to constantly nourish the body, improving metabolism and immunity.

Speaking about the use of drugs, it should be noted antibacterial agents used within 1-2 days before the final approval of the diagnosis. In the community-acquired form of pneumonia, sodium salt is used, and for young people, erythromycin. The reserve drug is fluoroquinilone and azithromycin.

As part of nosocomial pneumonia, aminoglycosides are used, which are combined with cephalosporins. Depending on the type of virus and bacteria, other restorative drugs can be used - expectorants, direct effects, mucolytics.

More about treatment

In order for the treatment of the bacterial form of pneumonia to be effective, it is recommended to carry out periodic health monitoring. To do this, you will need to take sputum, blood and urine tests. In some situations, an X-ray examination is indicated to establish all the nuances in the state of health. Additional treatment criteria include the following:

in complicated situations, detoxification type therapy and immunological therapy are carried out, correction of microcirculatory disorders and improvement in dysproteinemia;
an additional measure of exposure is oxygen therapy;
antipyretic components, analgesics, glucocorticoids and drugs to restore heart rhythm can be used;
patients with pathology and bronchial obstruction need aerosol therapy with bronchodilator components.

Complications and consequences

Given the criticality of the pathology and the high rate of damage to the body by bacteria in the absence of correct treatment, the likelihood of complications and consequences for the body is quite high. Possible complications include: pleural empyema, lung abscess, and respiratory distress syndrome in adults.

With a prolonged course of the disease and weakened immunity, the presented processes will be irreversible. Bacterial pneumonia provokes death in 9% of cases, and in the presence of indicated complications, this figure increases five times, reaching 50%. Taking into account the presented sad statistics, it is recommended to carry out timely and complete prevention of pathology.

Preventive actions

To exclude the possibility of infection with the designated form of pneumonia, an annual vaccination should be carried out. Additional measures that improve the activity of the body are fortification, maintaining a healthy lifestyle (refusal of alcohol and nicotine addiction), physical activity (daily walks, morning exercises, hardening).

Particular attention within the framework of prevention is paid to rational nutrition and moderate use of drugs, without which recovery in the bacterial form of the disease will not be 100%. In prevention, it is recommended to use medicines that:

facilitate the respiratory process;
remove puffiness;
exclude the formation of painful sensations in the chest area.

The norms of rational nutrition remain the same as they were in the course of treatment. The only difference is that it is necessary to focus on the use of natural ingredients: seasonal fruits and vegetables, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. In order for the patient's condition to improve, one should visit a pulmonologist or family doctor every 1.5-2 months. With the presented approach, the body will recover after bacterial pneumonia as soon as possible.

The described disease is dangerous for people of any age, but it is most critical for children and people over 55-60 years old. In order to minimize the risks, you should vaccinate, monitor your health and consult a doctor at the first alarming symptoms. This will help maintain health and maximize vitality.

In case of untimely or inadequate treatment, it can lead to the death of the patient.

Consider the most important information about bacterial pneumonia: a list of factors contributing to the development of pathology; varieties of bacterial flora; the most common symptoms, possible complications and some treatment recommendations.

Risk factors

Bacterial pneumonia is characterized by inflammation of the alveolar sacs, in which mucus, pus and "cellular debris" begin to accumulate. This substance is called exudate. Its presence in the respiratory system causes a deterioration in the supply of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide from the body. Respiratory failure, which is a life-threatening condition, may develop.

The causes of the development of pathology are various bacteria. But there are quite a few risk factors that contribute to the progression of the disease:

Smoking active and passive. Many years of experience in adults causes a weakening of the lung tissue, its susceptibility to colonization and the development of harmful bacteria. Children whose parents have such an addiction are more exposed to passive smoking. It should be noted that the passive use of nicotine doses is no different from its active consumption.
Other addictions that disrupt the functioning of the organs and systems of the body, including the lungs. This is alcohol and drug abuse.
Pathologies of the endocrine nature - in particular diabetes mellitus.
Chronic diseases of the lungs and bronchi.
Weakened immunity is becoming the most common cause of susceptibility to inflammatory diseases in children with the elderly.
In middle-aged people, this disease is purely chronic due to incorrect or incomplete treatment of acute pathology that occurred in childhood.
Susceptibility to stress, prolonged stay in a state of mental stress.
Chronic fatigue syndrome, prolonged physical overload.
Deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body caused by various factors. It can be both seasonal beriberi, and metabolic disorders in the body.
The impact of negative environmental factors, living in contaminated areas.
Conditions after surgery.
Prolonged bed rest due to injury or serious illness of another etiology.
Congenital anomalies of the abdominal organs or violation of their functions.

All these factors can affect the progression of the pathological inflammatory process in the lung tissue when various bacteria enter the body.

Forms of pathology and bacterial agents

Bacterial pneumonia can be of two forms: community-acquired (community-acquired) and hospital-acquired (nosocomial). Depending on this, there are types of pathogens that provoke the development of inflammation.

The most common and likely type of bacterial pneumonia is community-acquired. A person becomes infected by airborne droplets through direct contact with a sick person.

Such pneumonia can be caused by the following bacteria:

pneumococci are the most common bacteria that cause this pathology. This microorganism is present in certain quantities in the nasopharynx of healthy people. With a decrease in immunity, it penetrates the lungs and causes inflammation;
Haemophilus influenzae is also observed in a healthy body. It is not dangerous until a certain point: a decrease in the immune status or a viral infection. Bacteria move down from the epithelium of the upper respiratory tract and cause pneumonia;
Klebsiella pneumonia belongs to a number of opportunistic microflora and is found on the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth and digestive tract. This microorganism causes disease when immunity is reduced;
Staphylococcus aureus also refers to conditionally pathological flora, which can be found in the intestines, nasopharynx and on the skin. Bacterial pneumonia caused by this pathogen is most common in young children with immature immunity, injecting drug addicts and people with chronic inflammatory pathologies of other organs and systems.

Among the nosocomial infections that provoke the development of this type of pneumonia, the following are distinguished:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa;
Staphylococcus aureus, resistant to antibiotics of the penicillin group;
mycoplasma;
tuberculosis bacillus (Koch's bacillus).

The other two pathogens give rise to a highly contagious form of inflammation that is also poorly treated with conventional drugs. In this case, complex therapy using a combination of several drugs is necessary.

Clinical manifestations of bacterial inflammation, complications and treatment

Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia will largely depend on the type of bacteria that caused the illness. However, there are general signs of pathology, which should be a signal to immediately seek qualified help.

What are the signs of such a dangerous disease:

Acute onset with a characteristic increase in body temperature to very high rates, fever is sometimes observed.
The frequency and depth of breathing increases against the background of shortness of breath, even at rest.
When inhaling, wheezing is heard, determined even without a phonendoscope.
The skin, especially in open areas, becomes pale, almost transparent.
A strong hacking cough develops. May be accompanied by sputum, in some cases with impurities of pus.
Appetite disappears or decreases, which is explained by intoxication of the body. Often there is nausea with the urge to vomit. Children may have diarrhea.
Chest pain accompanying coughing spells and deep breaths.
Muscle pain, body aches, general weakness.
Change in heart rate. Both tachycardia and bradycardia can be observed.

Pneumonia by such signs can be determined even by a non-specialist. Immediate contact with a doctor will make it possible to avoid complications in the form of respiratory failure, pulmonary edema, pleurisy, lung abscess. It is possible to spread the inflammatory process to other organs, in particular to nearby ones.

It is important to remember that there are no universal prescriptions for the treatment of any disease, in particular bacterial pneumonia. In each case, therapy is prescribed strictly individually, taking into account the characteristics of the patient.

bacterial pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia is a type of infectious disease that has a negative effect on the lungs of the human body. Pneumonia of this type is caused by bacteria, in certain cases the disease can be caused by viruses, fungi, chemicals and other organisms. Bacterial pneumonia causes of which today are one of the causes of death. Infectious bacteria lead to the inflammatory process of the alveolar sacs. This leads to the appearance and accumulation of purulent formations, fluid and cellular detritus. This, in turn, manifests itself in the exchange of oxygen, which at this moment noticeably deteriorates, as well as carbon dioxide. Bacterial pneumonia is accompanied by pain in the chest and causes shortness of breath.

Depending on the complexity and duration of the inflammatory process, this pneumonia is divided into a mild form and secondary bacterial pneumonia. The course of the disease in severe form most often leads to respiratory inferiority and death of the patient. Such a deplorable result is also greatly influenced by the age of the patient, his state of health and the level of immunity. Timely treatment of the initial stage of the disease in rare cases reaches a severe form, since a large variety of antibiotics can destroy the inflammatory process.

Bacterial pneumonia is figuratively divided into two forms of infection:

community-acquired bacterial pneumonia. In this case, bacteria enter the body from the surrounding environment. This route of infection is quite common. The infection enters a healthy body by airborne droplets or as a result of contact with an infected person. Bacteria that cause community-acquired pneumonia include:

Pneumococcus (Streptococcus pneumoniae) is the most common pneumonia. This type of microbe is located in the nasopharynx of a healthy person. As soon as the level of immunity sets, these bacteria, along with inhalation, pass into the lungs. They can also enter the bloodstream from any wound.
Hemophilus influenzae (Haemophilus influenzae) - lives on the epithelium of the upper respiratory system. It does not manifest itself with strong immunity and the absence of infectious diseases. It ranks second among the formation of the inflammatory process of the lungs.
Klebsiella pneumonia (Klebsiella pneumoniae) - bacteria of this species are located on the skin surface, in the mouth and stomach. Able to influence people with poor immunity.
Staphylococcus aureus (Staphylococcus aureus) - this type of infection is observed most often in drug addicts, in people with prolonged illnesses, as well as in newborn children with a poorly developed immune system. Bacteria live on the skin, in the throat, and intestines. This type of bacteria is difficult to treat with antibiotics.

Nosocomial route of infection. Being in institutions with infected people of this disease for a long time, without using anti-inflammatory drugs, there is a high possibility of contracting bacterial pneumonia. Inflammation of the lungs can be acquired after two weeks due to contact with microbes. This type of disease occurs with severe symptoms and is poorly treatable with antibiotics. Infectivity depends on the type of bacteria caught. But whatever they are, their entry into the lungs in most cases occurs through the nasal passage, throat. Many infected do not pose any danger to the surrounding population. But inflammation of the lung caused by mycoplasma (Mycoplasma pneumoniae) or tuberculosis bacillus (Koch's bacillus) is very dangerous and contagious. These bacteria are spread through droplets of saliva and sputum.

Bacterial pneumonia is more commonly seen in newborns, older populations (over 55 years of age), immunocompromised people, and smokers.

Inflammation of the lungs is usually divided by physicians into the following groups: typical and atypical. In general, they have one symptomatology, but from how pronounced it is, they draw a conclusion.

Common signs of bacterial pneumonia:

Violent cough with green, yellow or bloody sputum.
Pain in the chest area, which can worsen on inspiration.
Sharp chill.
An increase in body temperature up to 39 degrees, in some cases reaches large values.
The presence of head and muscular migraine.
Shortness of breath and the appearance of frequent breathing.
Lack of appetite and general lethargy of the whole organism.
Poor awareness (observed in the elderly population).
The skin acquires a pale shade, becomes more moist.

In young children, the process of bacterial pneumonia begins with problems in the nasal and throat passages. Bacterial pneumonia symptoms of the inflammatory process of the lungs begin much faster than in older people. Children's symptoms include an instant increase in body temperature, very rapid breathing, discomfort in the abdomen, and sometimes vomiting reactions are observed.

Pneumonia is a complication after the flu or a cold. Bacterial pneumonia, in turn, can lead to various damages of a complex nature:

sepsis;
respiratory failure;
acute respiratory distress syndrome;
lung abscess.

In order to make a diagnosis of pneumonia, it is necessary to undergo an x-ray confirmation of infiltration of the lung tissue, the patient must have at least two of the signs listed above.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial pneumonia. The drug is prescribed depending on the age of the patient, his general state of health, the presence of other acute inflammatory processes, etc. Patients during the period of therapy should consume as much fluid as possible, this will not provoke dehydration. It will also help a person fight bacteria. During the treatment and recovery period, patients should stop smoking and avoid tobacco smoke. Smoking contributes only to the growth of the inflammatory process. Hospitalization is carried out in the case when the patient suffers from shortness of breath and has a low level of oxygen to the blood. There is also a special diet. The diet should include a sufficient amount of proteins, vitamins A, C, B. A more accurate diet is established by the attending physician, based on the general well-being of the patient.

Preventive measures for bacterial pneumonia include the prudent use of antibiotics, annual vaccination against influenza diseases, and doctors recommend the polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine to the older population. Patients need to rest longer, do not take medications that are not prescribed by a doctor. Healthy people, in order to avoid this type of disease, should not forget about the rules of hygiene, it is better to avoid contact with infected people or at the same time apply all precautions. It is worth turning away from addictions and leading a healthy lifestyle. Every year you need to undergo a full examination of the whole body and strengthen your body. Having a strong immune system will always protect you from any kind of illness.

* all information and consultations are strictly confidential and not for posting on the site.

What pathogens cause pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infectious disease of the lower respiratory system, in which the pathological process affects the tissues of the lungs and pleura. What pathogen causes this disease most often? What are the main groups of pathogenic organisms that provoke the disease? We will answer these and other questions later in the article.

Disease classification

Depending on the nature of origin, the following types of pneumonia are distinguished:

In this case, the symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment will differ significantly.

The most common type of illness is bacterial pneumonia. But, at the same time, it lends itself best to early diagnosis and treatment.

Fungal nature of origin

This type of pneumonia is characterized by a mild clinical picture, especially in the initial stages of the disease. It is caused by uncontrolled reproduction and activity of fungi. The first place in this list is occupied by the causative agent Candida albicans, but there is a risk of pneumonia and under the influence of other types of fungi, although the proportion of such varieties of the disease< 3%.

Despite the type of causative agent of fungal pneumonia, the symptoms of the disease will be approximately the same:

increase in general body temperature (more than 37.8 0 С);
dyspnea;
cough with purulent discharge.

The causative agents of pneumonia (colonies of fungi) contribute to the formation of abscesses and the filling of the alveoli with fluid. With improperly selected or missing treatment, these processes can become chronic and cause a number of complications.

Often, the influence of fungi affects not only the tissue of the lung, but also the pleura, causing pleurisy. Such pneumonia is diagnosed by evaluating an x-ray of the lungs, a blood test, and also sowing the separated sputum on a cell culture.

Traditional treatment with antibacterial drugs in the case of a fungal nature of origin is impractical and even dangerous. This is due to the fact that antibiotics destroy not only pathogenic bacteria, but also “friendly”, beneficial microorganisms that inhibit the growth of fungi. Therefore, fungal pneumonia is treated with antifungal drugs in combination with adjunctive therapy (vitamins, expectorants and mucolytic drugs).

Bacterial nature of occurrence

Among the causative agents of pneumonia, bacteria are in the first place. So, the most common bacterial microorganisms that cause this disease are:

pneumococci;
staphylococci;
hemophilic bacillus;
legionella;
streptococcus;
meningococcus;
klebsiella;
Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Bacterial pneumonia differs from others in the abrupt onset of the disease and a rather long course.

Common symptoms of this subspecies of the disease are:

increase in temperature indicators up to 40 0 С;
cough with a large amount of purulent sputum;
pallor of the skin;
pain in the retrosternal space;
hard breathing with the presence of wheezing;
pulmonary and heart failure;
cardiopalmus;
symptoms of intoxication of the body (headache, apathy, indigestion).

But there are some differences depending on the pathogen. So, if the disease is caused by legionella, the initial stage of the disease passes with a gradual increase in the severity of manifestations. In this case, non-specific symptoms such as diarrhea, liver dysfunction and dizziness are quite often present. But overall forecasts remain favorable.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause irreversible consequences, leading to death.

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Almost all bacterial pathogens of pneumonia, except pneumococcus, contribute to the occurrence of areas of necrosis and abscesses in the lungs.

Identification of bacterial pneumonia begins with x-ray of the lungs, a clinical blood test, as well as culture and microscopy of the mucous discharge. In this case, it is especially important to determine the pathogen and its resistance to drugs. Additionally, other diagnostic methods can be used - MRI, puncture of the lung or pleural tissue.

In the treatment of bacterial pneumonia, antibiotics, mucolytics and expectorants are used. In addition, in some cases it may be necessary to sanitize the bronchi. A distinctive feature of the treatment of this subspecies of the disease is a longer course of antibiotic therapy - most often the course takes a day.

Viral nature of origin

Some viruses, once in the lower parts of the respiratory system, can cause inflammation of the tissues of the lungs and pleura. The most common of these pathogens are:

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influenza virus subspecies A and B;
parainfluenza;
syncytial virus;
adenovirus;
some forms of the herpes virus (cytomegalovirus, chickenpox);
measles virus.

The difference between viral pneumonia is the gradual development and the presence of symptoms of SARS. All this greatly complicates the diagnosis of the disease.

Specific symptoms of this type of pneumonia include:

fever;
the presence of noise when listening to breathing;
cardiopalmus;
respiratory failure;
pallor of the skin caused by anemia;
loss of working capacity due to severe symptoms of intoxication;
dry paroxysmal cough.

Often, additional symptoms, such as a runny nose, rash, joint and headache, join the manifestations of pneumonia.

On x-rays of the lungs, areas of inflamed tissue are clearly visible, and a clinical blood test can accurately confirm the viral nature of the origin of pneumonia.

Treatment is carried out by the introduction of antiviral and immunostimulating drugs. In addition, you need to drink plenty of water and additional humidification of the surrounding air. And only with a proven mixed form of the disease (attachment of bacterial pathogens), the appointment of antibiotics is a necessary measure.

Viral pneumonia is especially common among young children and the elderly. This is due to the peculiarity of the structure and insufficiency of the respiratory system, which allows the viral infection to penetrate into the lower parts of the respiratory system.

Mycoplasma pneumonia

Mycoplasma is the simplest microorganism, something between a virus and a bacterium. It is able to affect both the cell membrane and penetrate into the cell, destroying it from the inside.

Mycoplasma pneumonia has an indistinct beginning, very similar to a simple ARVI:

there is a moderately elevated body temperature;
runny nose;
dry cough;
apathy.

But after 4-5 days, the temperature indicators rise sharply and remain so for quite a long time (7-10 days), the cough becomes more productive, a small amount of sputum begins to discharge. At the same time, it acquires a paroxysmal character, headaches and joint pains begin, when listening to breathing, wheezing and noises are detected.

A feature of the course of mycoplasma pneumonia is the presence of a "marble" rash.

When diagnosing, they are mainly used:

PCR analysis of sputum to detect DNA of the pathogen;
a blood test for the presence of specific antibodies;
lung x-ray

Treatment is carried out by long-term use of certain groups of antibiotics. The course of treatment is a day.

Mixed form of pneumonia

A disease such as pneumonia in its “pure” form is very rare. More often it is mixed, which affects both the symptoms and the choice of treatment.

The most common way of connecting different types of pathogens is secondary infection. So, during the course of a viral disease, the protective functions of the bronchi and lung tissues weaken, which allows an additional bacterial infection to develop unhindered. As a result of this process, viral-bacterial pneumonia occurs.

Also, a bacterial infection can also join against the background of mycoplasmosis or fungal tissue damage. In any case, the inflammatory process caused by one of the pathogens creates favorable conditions for the occurrence of a mixed form of the disease.

Pneumonia is one of the most dangerous respiratory diseases.

The risk of severe complications, up to death, directly depends on the correctness and timeliness of determining the pathogen and starting drug therapy.

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bacterial pneumonia

Bacterial pneumonia is an acute infectious and inflammatory process in the lung tissue, which is caused by pathogenic microbial flora. It is characterized by the development of intoxication and febrile syndromes, respiratory failure.

Causes

Bacterial pneumonia is caused by damage to the lungs by gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. The community-acquired form of bacterial pneumonia is most often caused by Haemophilus influenzae, pneumococci. Hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia is usually caused by multidrug-resistant (resistant) strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Friedlander's bacillus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacteria, anaerobes, Haemophilus influenzae.

In other bacterial diseases (gonorrhea, anthrax, salmonellosis, typhoid fever, tularemia, whooping cough), a specific microflora can serve as the causative agent of pneumonia. In immunodeficiency states, bacterial agents are pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae, Legionella.

Microorganisms penetrate into the lung tissue by airborne, direct and hematogenous routes.

Smoking, SARS, alcohol consumption, overwork, frequent stress, hypovitaminosis, air pollution, old age, and reduced immune defenses predispose to the development of bacterial pneumonia. Concomitant pathology also contributes to the disease: congestive heart failure, congenital malformations of the bronchopulmonary system, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, chronic ENT infections, immunodeficiency, long-term and severe diseases, surgical interventions, prolonged immobilization.

Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia

The severity of the course, clinical manifestations of bacterial pneumonia are determined by the type of pathogen, age, health status of the patient, and the extent of the lesion.

In a typical course of bacterial pneumonia, a productive cough occurs with the release of mucopurulent or rusty sputum, sudden fever, and sometimes pain in the chest. The patient is worried about a sharp malaise, severe weakness, headache, muscle and joint pain, shortness of breath, loss of appetite. Signs of cardiac, respiratory and renal failure may develop.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia includes:

Laboratory tests (general blood count, urine);

Radiography of the lungs in the lateral and direct projections;

Determination of the pathogen (microscopy, culture of sputum, bronchial washings).

Study of the gas composition of arterial blood;

Analysis of pleural effusion;

Blood culture for sterility;

Spiral computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the lungs.

Types of disease

According to the clinical course, focal and lobar (croupous) bacterial pneumonia is distinguished.

Pneumonia can be unilateral or bilateral. With simultaneous damage to the pleura, pleuropneumonia develops.

Also, bacterial pneumonia can be community-acquired or hospital-acquired (nosocomial).

The course of bacterial pneumonia can be mild, moderate, severe, protracted.

The classification of nosological forms of bacterial pneumonia is based on the types of infectious pathogens: pneumococcal, streptococcal, meningococcal, staphylococcal pneumonia, as well as pneumonia caused by Klebsiella, Haemophilus influenzae, Escherichia coli, Legionella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, etc.

Patient's actions

If symptoms of bacterial pneumonia appear, you should contact your family doctor.

Treatment of bacterial pneumonia

Treatment for bacterial pneumonia depends on the severity. In mild cases, outpatient treatment is possible. During the period of fever, bed rest, easily digestible good nutrition, and plenty of fluids are recommended.

In bacterial pneumonia, antibacterial drugs (aminopenicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides) are used. In hospital and aspiration bacterial pneumonia, carbapenems, fluoroquinolones, combinations with lincosamides, aminoglycosides, metronidazole are additionally used.

In severe cases, detoxification therapy, immunotherapy, correction of dysproteinemia, microcirculatory disorders, oxygen therapy are performed.

For symptomatic therapy, antipyretics, glucocorticoids, analgesics, heart drugs are used.

With the development of an abscess, sanation bronchoscopy is performed using solutions of antibiotics, antiseptics, mucolytics.

Complications

Pleural effusion (complicated, uncomplicated);

Purulent processes in the lungs (lung gangrene, abscess);

Secondary bacteremia, focus of hematogenous dissemination, sepsis;

Prevention of bacterial pneumonia

Treatment of chronic foci of infection;

Strengthening the immune system (the use of immunomodulators of plant origin - chamomile, echinacea, eleutherococcus and others);

Avoidance of hypothermia, other stress factors;

Avoid contact with sick people.

Pulmonology:

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bacterial pneumonia

Symptoms of bacterial pneumonia are associated with the occurrence of respiratory failure.

Thanks to the methods of treatment, it is possible to get rid of this disease in the early stages without consequences. The basis of treatment is antibiotic therapy.

Bacterial pneumonia - symptoms in adults

The bacterial form of pneumonia refers to acute infectious diseases. A distinctive feature is the presence of inflammation of the lung tissue, which increases if it is not stopped. This disease is caused by microbes entering the human body.

The main characteristics are:

severe fever;
intoxication of the body;
respiratory failure.

Such pneumonia ranks first in the number of cases among other forms of pneumonia. It most often affects young children and the elderly over 70 years of age.

Frequent symptoms of the disease:

loss of appetite;
severe weakness and lethargy;
heat;
muscle pain;
dyspnea;
fever;
chest pain that increases with inhalation;
pallor;
severe cough with an abundance of sputum, which contains pus;
poor functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
increased heart rate;
moist cough;
wheezing when inhaling;
deep breathing.

What is the viral form of the disease

It is not easy to distinguish between bacterial pneumonia and viral pneumonia, but if you use a few simple facts, the differences become visible even to a non-professional:

Bacterial pneumonia develops longer and proceeds sluggishly. It is difficult to single out the moment of infection. You can see a pronounced lesion. The patient's temperature rises within 38 degrees.
Bacterial pneumonia is characterized by the presence of pus in the sputum, which has a yellow or greenish tint. The viral form of the disease is characterized by watery sputum without color.
A bacterial infection can develop both independently and against the background of other diseases or complications. It can combine with viruses that reduce the protective function of the body, so the symptoms of the disease worsen significantly. If the patient has influenza pneumonia of the primary form, then in the first days of the disease one can observe a dry cough, which gradually becomes wet, with an abundance of sputum with blood. The secondary form - bacterial pneumonia - often appears after a few days. It is characterized by purulent sputum.
If pus is released, then this indicates a bacterial form of the disease or a mixed one.
For the treatment of viral and bacterial pneumonia, completely different drugs and antibiotics are used.

Klebsiella and other pathogens of this pathology

The appearance of bacterial pneumonia is provoked by many factors, of which there are a huge number.

The most common are:

The causative agents of diseases such as anthrax, salmonellosis, whooping cough.
Severe hypothermia of the body, in which all the bacteria that live on the mucous membranes or upper respiratory tract are activated. It is they who provoke the onset of the disease.
The patient has bad habits that lead to weakened immunity. It is he who becomes the beginning of problems with the heart and lungs. Violation of the protective function significantly weakens the body, which leads to weak resistance to bacteria.

Such factors can provoke the development of bacterial pneumonia individually or together.

If there are several factors of the disease, then the symptoms will be expressed more clearly.

The causative agents of the disease are:

pneumococci;
streptococci;
meningococci;
klebsiella;
legionella;
Pseudomonas aeruginosa;
hemophilic bacillus;
staphylococci;
coli.

The most common bacteria that cause community-acquired pneumonia are:

Pneumococcus. They cause bacterial pneumonia most often. These bacteria are located in the human nasopharynx, and with a decrease in the protective function of the body, they enter the lungs when inhaled, where they begin to actively develop. In addition to the lungs, these microorganisms can enter the bloodstream from a wound or be introduced along with an infection.
Klebsiella. The bacterium is found in the digestive tract, in the human mouth and on its skin. It affects only those who have reduced immunity.
Haemophilus influenzae. It is located in the upper respiratory tract on the epithelium, and until the immunity is reduced, it does not cause any harm to the body. It is Haemophilus influenzae that is considered one of the most common causative agents of bacterial pneumonia.
Staphylococcus aureus. It most often affects drug addicts who use drugs intravenously, young children and people with chronic diseases. Every fourth carries this pathogen in his body, which is located on the skin, in the intestines or throat.

Is this disease contagious

You can get bacterial pneumonia, as a sick person spreads dangerous bacteria that caused the disease. But it is not a fact that a person whose body has got such bacteria will become infected with pneumonia.

Many pathogens that cause bacterial pneumonia can cause serious illness, such as inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

Each person can become infected with pneumonia from himself, as he is the carrier of most of the pathogens of this disease, which in an inactive form cannot harm the body.

As soon as the level of his protective function decreases, then he has a chance to pick up bacterial pneumonia without contact with other sick people.

The disease appears after the pathogenic microflora (bacteria) enters the body. They can get to a person through the carrier or through household items.

Useful video on the topic

Watch a video about the symptoms and treatment of bacterial pneumonia:

Established pathogenesis of the disease

An infection can get in two ways:

If the disease is of bronchogenic origin, then this can lead to the formation of peribronchial infiltrates. And hematogenous - to the development of interstitial foci of inflammation.

inhalation of microbes from the environment;
entry through aspiration;
transmigration from the upper respiratory tract to the lower:
exposure during medical operations or mechanical ventilation.

The hematogenous route, that is, the entry of bacteria through the blood, is much less common.

This can happen for reasons such as:

intrauterine infection;
intravenous infection (drug addiction);
septic processes.

The lymphogenous route of penetration of bacteria is practically not found. After the entry of hostile microflora, bacteria are fixed and actively reproduce, which leads to the development of the initial stage of the disease - bronchitis or bronchiolitis.

To inhale oxygen and get rid of obstacles, the body causes a cough, but this leads to the spread of microorganisms throughout the body, which provokes the formation of new foci of inflammation. As a result, patients develop respiratory failure caused by a lack of oxygen, if the form of the disease is severe, this leads to disruption of the heart.

Acute, unspecified form of pneumonia

The acute form of bacterial pneumonia is characterized by complication of symptoms.

The patient has:

coughing up purulent brown sputum or bloody sputum;
chest pain that gets worse when you breathe in
the appearance of shortness of breath even at rest;
temperature rise;
rave;
confusion.

Acute pneumonia responds well to treatment. The prognosis is favorable, but only if the patient asked for help in time and carefully followed all the instructions of the attending physician.

Sometimes you can meet a bacterial form of pneumonia without a specified pathogen. Usually, for the treatment of this type, a thorough diagnosis is used and tests are carried out that will help identify individual reactions to one or another type of drug.

Since with such a disease it is impossible to identify the main pathogen, they are treated with drugs of general action.

After a few days, the reaction of the body is served, if it is positive and the patient's condition improves, then they continue to use the selected drug in conjunction with other medicines. If there is no reaction, then they are looking for another remedy that will more effectively fight inflammation.

Basic diagnostic methods

Several different methods are used to diagnose bacterial pneumonia to help rule out other similar conditions.

Basic diagnostic methods:

Examination by a doctor. During the examination, you can notice the pallor of the skin, heavy and rapid breathing and cyanosis. During palpation, an increase in voice trembling at the site of lung damage is noticeable.
Percussion. You may notice dullness or a significant shortening of the lung sound.
Auscultation. Heavy breathing or bronchial breathing, increased bronchophony, wheezing during inhalation and exhalation. With exacerbation, pleural friction is heard.
Leukocytosis. The formula has a significant shift to the left, a significant increase in ESR, the appearance of lymphopenia and C-reactive protein.
X-ray. Protracted foci of inflammation and destruction of lung tissue are noticeable. In some cases, a pleural effusion may be seen.
Microscopy. This study is aimed at identifying the pathogen and the root cause of the disease. To help identify the pathogen, sputum culture and the study of bronchial waters help.
FDB. It is carried out if the patient has shortness of breath or lung pathology.
Examination of arterial blood for the composition of gases. It is carried out with a complication of bacterial pneumonia, as well as to determine the level of hypercapnia and hypoxemia.
Laboratory tests. The blood is examined for the presence of deviations from the norm, an analysis of the pleural effusion is performed.
MRI and CT. They are carried out in order to exclude other diseases with similar symptoms and tests.

Effective treatment of the disease

It is possible to determine the type of treatment for bacterial pneumonia only by the severity of the course of the disease. If the course of the disease is mild, then the doctor prescribes outpatient treatment.

When the fever intensifies and the temperature rises, bed rest, plenty of fluids and wholesome food rich in vitamins are recommended.

The duration of treatment and the complete recovery of the patient depends on the causative agent of the disease, the severity and individual characteristics of the organism. A mild form of bacterial pneumonia is treated for days, a severe one for a month.

For the treatment of bacterial pneumonia, antibacterial drugs are used, depending on the individual reactions of the patient's body or the type of pathogen.

If the patient has an aspiration or hospital-acquired form of bacterial pneumonia, then the following is additionally prescribed for treatment:

With the complication of the disease, it is necessary to use more effective methods of treatment, they include:

immunotherapy;
detoxification therapy;
oxygen therapy;
correction of microcirculatory disorders.

To remove painful and dangerous symptoms, they take drugs that relieve fever, restore heart rhythm, glucose and analgesics.

For effective recovery, the patient is prescribed:

physiotherapy;
chest massage;
breathing exercises.

After the course of treatment, in order to consolidate the result, improve the state of health, restore the body's strength and increase the level of immunity, sanitary-resort treatment is necessary. Also, to avoid the return of the disease, it is recommended to regularly visit a pulmonologist.

Possible consequences and complications

Bacterial pneumonia is considered a dangerous disease that can even lead to death, not to mention other unpleasant and dangerous consequences for the body.

acute respiratory failure;
pulmonary edema;
abscess;
gangrene of the lung;
meningitis;
bacteremia;
pleural effusion;
pericarditis;
hepatitis;
respiratory distress syndrome;
pleural empyema;
heart failure;
sepsis;
nephritis.

The disease can cause serious harm not only to the respiratory organs, but also to the cardiovascular system, digestion, and central nervous system.

The lack of oxygen leads to a deterioration in the performance of the brain.

If you seek help from a doctor when the first alarming symptoms appear and carry out high-quality and productive treatment, then the prognosis is favorable. It is possible to completely cure bacterial pneumonia, the course of treatment will not take much time and effort if you do not start the disease in the early stages.

Bacterial pneumonia - infection of the lungs with certain bacteria, such as Haemophilus influenzae or pneumococcus, but if other viral diseases are present in the body, this virus can become the causative agent. Accompanied by symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, cough with sputum, pain in the chest. Diagnosis is possible with the help of an x-ray, blood tests and sowing of sputum. Treatment is with antibiotics.

The greatest risk group is children under five years of age and older people over 75. This type is characterized by the rapid development of complications, the most common of which is, as well as a high probability of mortality. The main routes of infection are airborne or through the bloodstream in the presence of foci of infection in other parts of the body.

Among other infectious and bacterial diseases, pneumonia confidently holds the first place, since about a thousand people per 100 thousand of the population are affected by this disease.

Etiology

The main causes of bacterial pneumonia are harmful microorganisms, but there are several factors that contribute to the manifestation of this disease:

many years of smoking experience in adults, passive smoking in children;
various chronic lung diseases;
weak immunity is one of the most common factors for the appearance of this type of disease in children;
age category. Notably, bacterial pneumonia only affects young children and the elderly. In the middle age group, such a disease can only be chronic, that is, due to incorrect or incomplete treatment of the acute form in childhood;
alcohol abuse;
prolonged exposure to stressful situations;
lack of vitamins in the body;
severe overwork;
environmental pollution or living near factories;
complications from surgery;
prolonged immobilization;
congenital pathologies of the structure or functioning of the abdominal organs.

Varieties

Depending on the location of the lesion, bacterial pneumonia can be:

focal - the infection affects only some parts of the lung tissues;
lobar - based on the name, the infection spreads to a whole lobe of the organ. Often the lower parts of the lungs are affected;
unilateral;
bilateral.

Also, the disease has a classification according to the microorganism that became the causative agent of the disease. Thus, pneumonia happens:

pneumococcal;
staphylococcal;
streptococcal;
meningococcal;
caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Escherichia coli and other less common bacteria.

According to the place of infection, the disease is divided into:

home or community-acquired - infection did not occur in stationary conditions;
nosocomial - the disease occurs on the second or third day of stay in a medical institution.

In addition, viral-bacterial pneumonia can occur in the following forms:

light;
moderate;
heavy;
complicated, which is characterized by a long course.

With untimely or improper treatment in children, it becomes chronic in adults.

Symptoms

Viral-bacterial pneumonia is characterized by an intense manifestation of symptoms, which distinguishes it from other types of lung damage. Thus, the main signs of this disease are:

a sharp increase in body temperature, often turning into a fever;
frequent and deep breathing;
dyspnea;
wheezing when inhaling;
pallor of the skin;
a strong cough with sputum, often transparent, but since bacteria are the causative agents, it may be mixed with purulent fluid;
decreased or complete lack of appetite;
pain in the chest;
weakness and exhaustion;
muscle pain;
change in heart rate;
indigestion.

If you do not seek help from specialists in time and do not start treatment, viral-bacterial pneumonia can cause the death of the patient.

Complications

Ignoring the symptoms of the disease very often leads to the following complications:

or ;
infectious-toxic shock;
inflammation of the brain or spinal cord;
the occurrence of an inflammatory process in the myocardium;
acute respiratory failure, which can lead to;
inflammation of the pleura.

Since viral-bacterial pneumonia is often diagnosed in children and the elderly, it is necessary to consult a doctor at the first manifestation of symptoms in them, who will prescribe an effective treatment.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic measures of the viral-bacterial type of the disease consist of the following set of actions:

examination and listening to the patient, to determine the noise in the lungs;
holding and;
radiography of the lungs in several projections - direct and lateral, which will determine the affected areas and the degree of spread of inflammation;
a study of sputum secreted by coughing will help to establish which microorganism caused the onset of the disease;
culture of secretions to determine the most effective antimicrobial treatment;
studying the functioning of external respiration;
MRI and;
blood cultures (performed to determine the presence or absence of bacteria in the patient's blood).

During the diagnosis, it is necessary to exclude some diseases, the symptoms of which are very similar to those of viral-bacterial pneumonia, among them:

oncological neoplasms;
lack of air in the tissues of the lung;
stagnant nature;
thrombus formation in the lung.

Treatment

Therapy of viral-bacterial pneumonia depends entirely on the stage of the disease. So, with a mild form of leakage, the following treatment is prescribed:

providing the patient with bed rest;
drinking a large amount of liquid, it is best if it is ordinary purified water without gas;
light and fast digestible food;
treatment with antimicrobial drugs is prescribed depending on which virus served as the causative agent. With a mild course, such drugs can be taken orally, and with a complicated one, by injection. The course of treatment should not exceed two weeks, but in some cases longer therapy may be needed - up to three weeks.

With a complicated course of viral-bacterial pneumonia, it is necessary:

strengthen the immune system with medications;
carry out detoxification;
start oxygen treatment. Oxygen therapy starts processes in the body that increase the efficiency of the lungs. But the excessive influence of such therapy can lead to oxygen starvation;
take antipyretic drugs;
treatment with aerosols for bronchial lesions.

The prognosis of this viral-bacterial disease is quite positive, but only in cases where therapy was started at an early stage. However, about 30% of elderly patients die. With a severe form and the appearance of consequences, mortality occurs in almost half of the cases, both in children and in older people.

Prevention

In order for viral-bacterial pneumonia not to become a problem, you must follow simple rules:

stop smoking and restrict children from passive smoking;
do not drink alcohol-containing and low-alcohol drinks;
food should be enriched with vitamins and nutrients;
exercise regularly;
strengthen the immunity of the child by hardening;
adhere to a rational daily routine, leave enough time for rest;
after the street, always wash your hands, it is especially important to teach this to children;
undergo a preventive examination at the clinic several times a year;
at the first symptoms, especially in children, you should immediately seek help from a specialist.

It is best if treatment and prevention will take place in a sanatorium-resort environment.

Is everything correct in the article from a medical point of view?

Answer only if you have proven medical knowledge

Diseases with similar symptoms:

Inflammation of the lungs (officially pneumonia) is an inflammatory process in one or both respiratory organs, which is usually infectious in nature and is caused by various viruses, bacteria and fungi. In ancient times, this disease was considered one of the most dangerous, and although modern treatments allow you to quickly and without consequences get rid of the infection, the disease has not lost its relevance. According to official figures, in our country every year about a million people suffer from pneumonia in one form or another.

Bacterial pneumonia is an infection of one or both lungs. Bacteria cause inflammation of the alveolar sacs, which accumulate pus, fluid and cellular debris. This significantly impairs the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Infection in the lungs causes shortness of breath and pain when trying to breathe.

Inflammation of the lungs can be mild or severe, leading to respiratory failure and death. The severity of the disease depends on the pathogenicity of the bacterial agent, the age of the patient, his state of health and immune status. Timely treatment of infection with antibiotics significantly reduces the risk of acute respiratory failure.

Bacterial pneumonia is classified according to whether you caught it outside or inside a hospital. An infection that strikes you in a hospital setting is more serious because it is more resistant to antibiotics.

Community form

Community-acquired or community-acquired pneumonia refers to infections that are the result of bacteria entering the body from the environment. This is the most common type of pneumonia. Infection occurs through airborne droplets when someone in your environment coughs or sneezes or through contact with another person.

Bacteria that cause community-acquired pneumonia:

Photo from en.wikipedia.org. Haemophilus influenzae.

About 2 out of 100 staph vectors carry a methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus. This generation of bacteria does not respond well to antibiotic therapy and is more common in healthcare settings. The spread of methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus occurs through antibiotic misuse, by sharing things, or through contact sports such as rugby or boxing.

Nosocomial or nosocomial pneumonia

You can catch a dangerous nosocomial pneumonia in just two to three days after exposure to microbes in a hospital or outpatient setting. This type of disease does not respond well to antibiotics and causes more severe symptoms. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus are the most common causative agents of nosocomial lung infections.

The infectiousness or contagiousness of a disease depends on the type of bacteria that causes the infection. In many cases, pathogens from the nose or throat enter the lungs. Most patients do not pose a danger to others. However, pneumonia caused by mycoplasma (Mycoplasma pneumoniae) or tuberculosis bacillus (Koch's bacillus) is highly contagious. These bacteria are spread among people through the inhalation of infected droplets of saliva or sputum.

Main Risk Factors

Depending on the presence of chronic diseases and other circumstances, those who are statistically more likely to suffer from bacterial pneumonia are distinguished. Among them:

babies And Children,
adults over 65,
patients who are sick or have impaired immunity,
patients on long-term use of immunosuppressants
patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),
smokers,
patients using inhaled corticosteroids for a long period.

Doctors often distinguish between two types of pneumonia (typical and atypical) based on signs and symptoms. This helps to determine the type of infecting bacterium, the duration of the illness, and the best treatment.

The most common symptoms of bacterial pneumonia are:

Cough with yellow, green or bloody mucus;
Chest pain that gets worse when you cough or breathe in
sudden chills;
Fever 38.9 C and above (in older people it may be below this indicator);
Headache and muscle pain;
Shortness of breath and rapid breathing;
Lethargy and loss of appetite;
Confusion of consciousness (especially in elderly patients);
Wet and pale skin.

Bacterial pneumonia in children

The spectrum of pathogens that cause the development of the disease in adults also affects the lungs in children. In young patients, pneumonia begins as an upper respiratory tract infection (infection of the nose and throat). The characteristic symptoms of infection appear faster than in adults, already after 2-3 days without adequate treatment of a cold or sore throat.

Bacterial pneumonia in children is accompanied by a high temperature at the onset of the disease and unusual rapid breathing. Pediatric patients with inflammation in the lower part of the lungs near the abdomen may have fever, abdominal pain, or vomiting, but no breathing problems.

Some types of pneumonia cause very specific symptoms that provide important clues as to which pathogen is infecting children's lungs. For example, in children and adolescents, pneumonia caused by mycoplasma causes sore throat and rash in addition to the main symptoms of the disease.

In infants with this disease caused by chlamydia (Chlamydophila pneumoniae), the disease has a mild course, but a dangerous form of conjunctivitis develops.

Therapeutic Approaches

Patients with bacterial pneumonia need to take antibiotics. The choice of an antibacterial drug depends on the age of the patient, the presence of chronic diseases in history, his use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.

To avoid symptoms of dehydration, patients should drink plenty of fluids. This helps the body fight bacteremia. Anti-inflammatory medications such as:

acetaminophen (paracetamol),
ibuprofen (Nurofen, Advil).

If the patient suffers from shortness of breath or symptoms of a decrease in the level of oxygen in the blood appear, then hospitalization will be required.

Disease classification

It may occur for various reasons.

Depending on the nature of origin, the following types of pneumonia are distinguished:

fungal;
Bacterial;
viral;
Mixed.

In this case, the symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment will differ significantly.

The most common type of disease is. But, at the same time, it lends itself best to early diagnosis and treatment.

Fungal nature of origin

Despite the type of pathogen, the symptoms of the disease will be approximately the same:

increase in general body temperature (more than 37.8 0 С);
dyspnea;
cough with purulent discharge.

Bacterial nature of occurrence

Among the causative agents of pneumonia, bacteria are in the first place. So, the most common bacterial microorganisms that cause this disease are:

Bacterial pneumonia differs from others in the abrupt onset of the disease and a rather long course.

Common symptoms of this subspecies of the disease are:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can cause irreversible consequences, leading to death.

Almost all bacterial pathogens of pneumonia, except pneumococcus, contribute to the occurrence of areas of necrosis and abscesses in the lungs.

Viral nature of origin

Some viruses, once in the lower parts of the respiratory system, can cause inflammation of the tissues of the lungs and pleura. The most common of these pathogens are:

The difference between viral pneumonia is the gradual development and the presence of symptoms of SARS. All this greatly complicates the diagnosis of the disease.

Specific symptoms of this type of pneumonia include:

Often, additional symptoms, such as a runny nose, rash, joint and headache, join the manifestations of pneumonia.

On x-rays of the lungs, areas of inflamed tissue are clearly visible, and a clinical blood test can accurately confirm the viral nature of the origin of pneumonia.

Mycoplasma is the simplest microorganism, something between a virus and a bacterium. It is able to affect both the cell membrane and penetrate into the cell, destroying it from the inside.

has an indistinct beginning, very similar to a simple ARVI:

there is a moderately elevated body temperature;
runny nose;
dry cough;
apathy.

A feature of the course of mycoplasma pneumonia is the presence of a "marble" rash.

When diagnosing, they are mainly used:

Treatment is carried out by long-term use of certain groups of antibiotics. The course of treatment is 15-21 days.

Mixed form of pneumonia

A disease such as pneumonia in its “pure” form is very rare. More often it is mixed, which affects both the symptoms and the choice of treatment.

Pneumonia is one of the most dangerous respiratory diseases.

The risk of severe complications, up to death, directly depends on the correctness and timeliness of determining the pathogen and starting drug therapy.