How to Prevent Pneumonia

Simple Ways to keep Pneumonia at Bay

With the onslaught of Covid 19, pneumonia has become a word frequently heard of! It is a dangerous disease that causes inflammation in the lungs through bacteria, fungi or viruses such as coronavirus and might even cause death in severe cases.

In Pneumonia, the air sacs of the lungs of the patients become inflamed and get filled with fluids such as pus causing difficulty in breathing, fever, chills, and cough with phlegm. Mostly, children below 5 years of age, senior citizens, pregnant women and people with diabetes, COPD fall prey to this ailment, however anyone from any age group or health status can get infected.


 

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Some of the symptoms of pneumonia are mentioned below:

  • Excessive cough often having greenish, yellow or bloody mucus
  • Pain in the chest
  • Shortness of breath
  • Increased heart rate
  • Fatigue
  • High fever
  • Blue lips and nails

How to Prevent Pneumonia

  • Wash Hands Regularly
  • Pneumonia is an ailment that spreads through bacteria and various harmful germs. Hence, don’t forget to wash hands regularly. Mostly, people come in contact with germs at bathroom or public places. Wash hands after going to the bathroom and public places. Carrying a hand sanitizer alongside can also help stay germ free everywhere.
     

  • Get Vaccinated
  • Getting a vaccine shot can also help one to avoid bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia. Vaccination is especially recommended for children, however anyone can get vaccinated to prevent pneumonia. Pneumococcal vaccines are recommended vaccines to prevent pneumonia.
     

  • Avoid Meeting Sick People
  • Try to avoid meeting people who have cold, flu or pneumonia, and take extra precaution in this regard if you have little babies or children under 5 or elderly above 65 yrs with you. Pneumonia can be contagious and can spread through sneeze or cough droplets, sharing utensils etc., hence take utmost precaution if you must meet or take care of an infected person.
     

  • Live A Healthy & Active Life
  • A weak immune system means invitation to diseases! Incorporate healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains in the diet. Also, exercise at least for 30 minutes every day to boost immunity.
     

  • Quit Smoking
  • Smoking is hazardous for lungs and makes them weak. To reduce the risk of severe pneumonia, quit smoking and also avoid passive smoke as that also impacts the health hazardously.
     

  • Take Care of Overall Health
  • Chronically ill person suffering from heart disease, diabetes, asthma, etc., are vulnerable and at an increased risk. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and food habits so that these diseases can be kept at a distance!

    Visit a doctor immediately if the symptoms of this disease show up, to ensure your wellbeing.

    Content Reviewed by – Asian Hospital Medical Editors
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