Pneumonia: Risk Factors & Treatment
Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract, which is
most commonly caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. Influenza
virus infection can also lead to pneumonia, particularly in persons
at an increased risk for developing the condition. Pneumonia occurs
most commonly during the winter months. The condition may affect
persons in the community (CAP or community-acquired pneumonia) or
hospitalized persons (hospital-acquired pneumonia). Symptoms include
shortness of breath, increased heart rate, cough, and fever.
Persons who smoke are encouraged to stop. The pneumococcal vaccine
may be recommended for certain persons based on the risk of infection.
Antibiotics are usually prescribed for the treatment of pneumonia.
Amoxicillin (Moxatag) may be prescribed for children.A macrolide antibiotic,
such as azithromycin (Zithromax), clarith-romycin (Biaxin), or
erythromycin (Erythrocin) may be prescribed for eligible persons who
are otherwise healthy. Other medications that might be prescribed include
doxycycline (Vibramycin), or fluoro-quinolones such as
moxifloxacin (Avelox) or levofloxacin (Levaquin). If influenza infection
occurs with the pneumonia, oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza)
are antiviral medications that may be prescribed.