PNEUMONIA, BACTERIAL |
|
General Information
DEFINITION--Infection and inflammation of the lungs with bacterial germs. Respiratory disorders of this type are the most common non-injury disorder seen in athletes.This is not usually contagious. Pneumonia is especially likely during cold or harsh weather, or with exhaustive exercise prior to developing sufficient cardiovascular-respiratory conditioning.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
High fever (over 102F or 38.9C) and chills.
Shortness of breath.
Cough with sputum that may contain blood or blood streaks.
Rapid breathing.
Chest pain that worsens with inhalations or exercise.
Abdominal pain.
Fatigue.
Bluish lips and nails in advanced, untreated pneumonia (rare).
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSInfection with bacteria, such as PNEUMOCOCCI, HEMOPHILUS, STREPTOCOCCI or STAPHYLOCOCCI, especially in those athletes who smoke or have recently had an illness that lowered resistance.
HOW TO PREVENT
Obtain prompt medical treatment for respiratory infections (except for uncomplicated common colds).
Arrange for pneumococcal and influenza immunizations if you are in a high-risk group. Persons at risk include those with heart disease, cancer, tuberculosis, congestive heart failure, diabetes, alcoholism, chronic lung disease or who have had recent surgery.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and exam by a doctor.
Laboratory studies, including sputum culture, blood culture and blood count.
X-rays of the lungs.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESS Usually curable in 1 to 2 weeks with treatment, but may take longer for older persons.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Pleurisy.
Lung abscess.
Pleural effusion (fluid between the membranes that cover the lung).
Spread of infection to the brain or meninges (meningitis).
Prolonged healing or relapse due to resuming activity too soon.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTHospitalization is sometimes necessary for severe cases. Otherwise bacterial pneumonia may be treated at home following doctor's instructions.
HOME TREATMENT
Use a cool-mist humidifier to increase air moisture. This helps thin lung secretions so they can be coughed out more easily. Putting medicine in the humidifier probably will not help. Wash the humidifier with warm water and detergent at least once a day to prevent growth of harmful germs.
Don't suppress the cough with medicine if the cough produces discolored or clear sputum or mucus. It is useful in ridding the body of lung secretions.
Suppress the cough with medicine if it is dry, non-productive and painful. Consult your doctor about a cough suppressant.
Use a heating pad or hot compresses to relieve chest pain.
MEDICATION
Your doctor may prescribe:
Antibiotics to fight infection.
Cough suppressants.
You may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen to relieve minor discomfort.
ACTIVITYRest in bed until fever declines and pain and shortness of breath disappear. You may read or watch TV. After treatment, resume normal activity and exercise at reduced levels until your strength returns.
DIETNo special diet. Increase fluid intake. Drink at least 1 glass of water or other beverage every hour. Extra fluid helps thin lung secretions.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of pneumonia.
The following occurs during treatment: Fever higher than 102F (38.9C).
Pain not relieved by heat or prescribed medication.
Increased shortness of breath.
Dark or bluish fingernails, skin or toenails.
Blood in the sputum.
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
New, unexplained symptoms. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
|
|
|
|
Dserun mollit anim id est laborum. Lorem ipsum and sunt in culpa qui officias deserunt mollit. Excepteur plus sint occaecat the best cupidatat nonr proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. September 24, 2004
