Seasonal respiratory illnesses, including influenza, COVID-19, and adenovirus, can be complicated by pneumonia. A general practitioner explained how to distinguish a viral infection from serious pneumonia, what symptoms to look out for, and when to seek urgent medical attention.
The main differences between viral infection and pneumonia
Viral infections usually affect the upper respiratory tract - the nose, throat and bronchi. They are manifested by a sore throat, headache, nasal congestion, as well as a dry cough. The temperature may increase, especially with the flu, but it decreases well after taking antipyretics.
Pneumonia, on the other hand, develops either as a primary infection or as a complication of a viral illness. It is characterized by a wet cough with yellow or green sputum, chest pain that worsens with breathing, shortness of breath, and a general deterioration in health.
How to understand that a viral infection has turned into pneumonia?
If your symptoms do not improve after 3-4 days of illness, but instead get worse, this may be a sign of bacterial pneumonia. You should see a doctor immediately if:
- high fever (over 38°C) that does not go down for more than three days;
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing;
- cough with bloody or green phlegm;
- a sharp deterioration in condition after several days of illness.
Particular attention should be paid to the elderly and patients with chronic diseases. In them, pneumonia can develop without typical symptoms - fever or cough. Instead, there may be a deterioration in well-being, weakness or even confusion.
Do I need to go to the doctor for a common cold?
If the symptoms are mild, there is no high fever, the cough is dry, and the general condition is satisfactory, you can treat yourself at home. However, if alarming signs appear, you should urgently seek medical help.
Pneumonia is a serious illness that requires adequate treatment, including antibiotics, and in some cases, hospitalization. Timely medical attention can prevent complications and preserve your health.
