Pneumonia in Elderly Adults: Causes, Detection, and Prevention, pt 5

Pneumonia can be caused by a buildup of bacteria, viruses, or fungi in the lungs. There are several types of bacteria that can cause pneumonia, some typical and some atypical. Any virus that can cause an upper respiratory illness can move into the lungs, causing pneumonia. Fungal pneumonia is more common in people with weakened immune systems or those who have close contact with fungal spores.

Frail, elderly people who take a big fall can bruise their lungs. This may create a pulmonary contusion (or lung bruise) that can cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. If this doesn’t heal correctly, it can lead to complications like pneumonia.

Additionally, if a senior was hospitalized after their fall, they may have contracted the infection during their stay. This is known as hospital-acquired pneumonia. If this is the case, it’s important to let their doctor know this history, so they can treat the pneumonia accordingly.

Symptoms of pneumonia in the elderly may vary depending on the type of pneumonia and the overall health of the person. While not all of these may be present, the symptoms of pneumonia in seniors may include the following:

— Shortness of breath
— Difficulty breathing
— Loss of appetite
— Malaise or fatigue
— Feelings of weakness
— Chills, Sweating, Shaking
— Chest pain that feels sharp or stabbing
— Vomiting or nausea, Fever
— Confusion

If a senior is unable to care for themselves or has an underlying disease, doctors recommend seniors with pneumonia be treated in a hospital. Doctors treat pneumonia with either antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal medications, depending on the cause.

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