As the colder months approach, many people start to worry about coming down with a respiratory illness. One of the main concerns is pneumonia, a serious lung infection that can be life-threatening if left untreated.
But how do you know if you or a loved one has pneumonia? Here are the top 5 symptoms to watch out for:
1. Coughing
One of the most common symptoms of pneumonia is a cough. However, not all coughs are equal. If you have pneumonia, your cough may be more persistent and you may cough up mucus. Your cough may also be painful and feel like it’s deep in your chest.
2. Fever
Another common symptom is a fever. If you have a fever, it means your body is trying to fight off an infection. With pneumonia, your temperature may be high and it may be difficult to bring down.
3. Shortness of breath
Pneumonia affects your lungs, and as a result, you may feel short of breath. This can make even simple activities, like walking up stairs, feel difficult. You may also feel like you can’t catch your breath, even when you’re resting.
4. Chest pain
Because pneumonia affects your lungs, you may feel pain in your chest. This can be a sharp pain or a dull ache, and it may be worse when you cough or take a deep breath.
5. Fatigue
Finally, if you have pneumonia, you may feel very tired. Your body is working hard to fight off the infection, and this can take a lot of energy. You may feel weak and have little energy to do anything.
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics, but it’s crucial to catch it early to avoid serious complications.
Remember to take care of yourself during cold and flu season by washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Stay healthy, and if you do come down with an illness, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.
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