What is Double Pneumonia?
This condition simply means that both lungs are affected regardless of the site where the pneumonia has developed. Pneumonia is a medical condition where in a portion of the lung is filled with liquid by products of inflammation. Commonly it is the right lung that is infected. Chances of double pneumonia in the elderly are more due to the weak immune system in the old age. The bacteria streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause.
Symptoms of Double Pneumonia
Often, people who have the condition present vague symptoms (e.i., other diseases also elicit them).
- Colds
- Cough, coughing with bloody mucus or small blood clots alone
- Fever
- Chills
- Sudden rapid breathing
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain felt on the lower lateral back portion of the chest when inhaling
- Loss of appetite
- Exhaustion
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Increased cold sweating
- Fatigue
Double Pneumonia Diagnosis
There are two basic procedures done:
- Physical assessment and history taking. This is done initially in all hospitals and health centers. The doctor asks you about relevant information such as what were your symptoms or when did it start.
- Chest X-ray. This is a basic procedure that can accurately diagnose double pneumonia. It is important to remove any metal objects and pregnant or suspecting to be pregnant women should tell the radiologist beforehand.
- Sputum analysis
- Blood analysis
Double Pneumonia Treatment
- If you experience pneumonia symptoms, you should immediately consult your doctor. If left untreated or mistreated it can proceed to severe lung complications.
- Medications such as antibiotics are the first line of treatment.
- Adequate rest and sleep.
- Drink six to eight glasses of water a day.
- Eat nutritious foods.
- Tepid water sponge bath or antipyretics such as acetaminophen for fever.
- Do not suppress a cough.
- Avoid drinking coffee, strong tea, and alcoholic beverages.
- You can take over-the-counter anti-pain medications if pain symptoms develop.
- Related Topics
- Double Pneumonia In The Elderly | Double Pneumonia Recovery Time
- Is Pneumonia Contagious In Adults: Pneumonia Symptoms And Treatment
- Bacterial Pneumonia | Viral Pneumonia | Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
- Pneumonia Types | Lobar, Broncho, Interstitial Pneumonia Facts
- Pneumonia In Children Under 5: Symptoms And Treatment For Pneumonia
