Pneumonia Prevention Tips
Pneumonia is a common but serious ailment. Our knowledgeable caregivers can help reduce seniors’ chances of coming down with it by encouraging prevention techniques. These include:
- Avoiding smoking
- Asking their doctor about getting the flu shot every fall
- Asking their doctor about the pneumonia vaccine
- Eating a proper diet
- Getting enough exercise and sleep
What Is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is a general term that refers to an infection of the lungs. It can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. Like the flu, pneumonia can cause serious problems for elderly people.
The possible consequences of pneumonia include:
- Fluid around the lungs
- Pus in the pleural cavity (an area between the lungs and chest)
- Low blood sodium
- Abscess in the lungs
- Death
What Are the Risk Factors?
The following things can put you at an increased risk for developing pneumonia:
- Being male
- Being older
- Smoking and breathing secondhand smoke
- Having certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung problems, diabetes, or dementia
- Taking prednisone (a medication)
- Abusing alcohol or drugs
- Being around certain environmental factors
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
What’s the Treatment?
If you get pneumonia, your doctor may advise:
- Antibiotics
- Bed rest
- Plenty of fluids
- Therapeutic coughing
- Breathing exercises
- Medication to reduce pain and fever
Where Can I Get More Information About the Role of In-Home Caregivers?
To learn more about our knowledgeable, reliable, compassionate in-home caregivers and how we can help seniors reduce their risk of getting pneumonia, please contact us today.
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