Pointing out that with the increase of illnesses during the winter months, pneumonia cases that begin as a common cold also increase, Denizli Private Egekent Hospital Pulmonology Specialist Dr. Nurşen Avkan explained what is commonly wondered about pneumonia.
Providing information about the symptoms and diagnosis of pneumonia, Dr. Nurşen Avkan said, “Pneumonia, also known as pneumonia among the public, occurs when the air sacs in the lung tissue fill with inflammatory fluid. Pneumonia is a contagious disease, and to protect against it, especially during the winter months, one should avoid crowded indoor spaces or be cautious if avoidance is not possible.”
Emphasizing that pneumonia can also be prevented by paying attention to general health guidelines, Dr. Avkan said, “In addition to rules we paid attention to during the coronavirus period, such as using tissues when coughing or sneezing, avoiding shared use of items, and washing hands frequently, immunity should be kept strong by avoiding habits such as smoking and alcohol. With the pneumonia vaccine, you can take precaution against the disease.”
“You should see a doctor immediately when you notice the symptoms”
Underlining that pneumonia symptoms should not be ignored, Dr. Nurşen Avkan said, “Since pneumonia begins like a common cold, it is often mistaken for the flu and its treatment can be delayed. Although the word pneumonia frightens people, sometimes patients are late in seeing a doctor when it is not recognized. Paying attention to symptoms is of vital importance.”
Listing pneumonia symptoms as fever, chills, shivering, cough, phlegm, chest and back pain, wheezing in the chest, vomiting, headache, and loss of appetite, Dr. Nurşen Avkan made the following warning:
“If you notice these symptoms in yourself, you should consult a pulmonologist. For the diagnosis and treatment of pneumonia, laboratory results and lung imaging are evaluated to make the diagnosis and start the necessary treatments.”