
Danger! Pneumonia in the elderly. Know the disease before it’s too late.
The elderly are at risk of developing pneumonia more easily than the general population. When they do, they often have severe symptoms, slow recovery, or serious complications that can be life-threatening if they do not receive timely care.
What is pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It causes the air sacs in the lungs to become inflamed and fluid to collect, which reduces oxygen exchange. สนใจสมัคร? คลิกที่นี่เพื่อเริ่มต้น This can lead to difficulty breathing, fever, chills, and coughing up phlegm.
Why are elderly people at risk of pneumonia?
As we age, our immune system weakens, making it less resistant to germs. In addition, some people have underlying diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, as well as difficulty swallowing, being bedridden, and not being able to cough or expel phlegm well. These are all factors that increase the risk of lung infections.
Symptoms to watch out for
- High fever, chills, or feeling cold even when not in a cold place
- Cough with phlegm or chronic dry cough
- Shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain
- Loss of appetite, fatigue
- Some elderly people may not have a fever, but symptoms may appear as confusion, inability to walk, or loss of consciousness.
Impact if not treated promptly
Pneumonia in the elderly can progress to sepsis, respiratory failure, or death, especially in those with weakened immune systems or underlying diseases.
How to prevent pneumonia in the elderly
- Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia
- Maintain basic hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently.
- Avoid people who are sick or areas where outbreaks occur.
- Eat a healthy diet and get adequate exercise.
- Annual health check-up to assess risk factors
- If you experience any abnormal symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.