Is it the Flu or Are You Experiencing Viral Pneumonia Symptoms?
Viral Pneumonia - Definition
Pneumonia is inflammation of the lung caused by either a parasite, bacteria, fungus or virus that affects 1 out of 100 people per year. Pneumonia caused by viruses such as influenza, herpes simplex, parainfluenza, adenovirus, hantavirus, respiratory syncytial virus or cytomegalovirus is known as viral pneumonia.
Common Symptoms
Early viral pneumonia symptoms are similar to those of the common cold or flu: fever, dry cough, muscle aches and pains, headache and weakness. Other symptoms include chills, runny or stuffy nose, clammy skin, fatigue, stiff joints, sore throat and sweating.
When It’s Time to Call Your Doctor
Viral pneumonia symptoms that require medical attention include frequent coughing that produces green, white or yellow phlegm that may be streaked with blood; wheezing; sharp or stabbing chest pain when you inhale deeply or cough; headache; and confusion, particularly in older people. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: accelerated heartbeat or breathing while resting; fainting or severe dizziness, or confusion; shortness of breath; or fingernails or lips that turn blue or dusky. Left untreated, viral pneumonia can lead to respiratory, liver and heart failure. Bacterial infections can occur during or after viral pneumonia, which can lead to more serious types of pneumonia.
For Persons over 65
Viral pneumonia symptoms may be not be as noticeable in an older person because some symptoms, such as trouble thinking or confusion, naturally occur with age. Older people may only have a mild fever or pain in their upper abdomen; a breathing rate that is faster than normal or weakness that may be mistaken as just another sign of old age. If you notice these signs in an older person you care for, notify their caregiver immediately.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Treatment for viral and other forms of pneumonia involve a physical examination; chest x-ray; complete blood count (CBC) test; blood culture; blood test for virus antibodies; sputum culture; bronchoscopy (test to view your airways); and open lung biopsy. Viral pneumonia is usually treated with antiviral medications, as antibiotics are ineffective. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, however, to prevent infection while you are recovering from pneumonia. Other treatment options are increased fluids to prevent dehydration, oxygen therapy or breathing treatment involving use of inhalers, nebulizers and humidifiers.
Prognosis and Recovery
Most people recover from viral pneumonia within 1 to 3 weeks. More serious cases may require hospitalization, especially if the patient is over 65 or is a young child, has another serious medical condition, has worsening symptoms despite taking antibiotics, is unable to eat or drink, or is unable to care for himself at home. It may take older people a few weeks before they regain their strength and well-being. Persons at high risk for viral pneumonia should talk to their doctor about influenza and pneumonia shots. Flu shots are good for one year; while pneumonia vaccinations are good for five to six years.
References
https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000073.htm
https://www.lungusa.org/lung-disease/pneumonia/symptoms-diagnosis-and.html