November 2: World Pneumonia Day
November 2, 2009 by Marijke Durning, RN
Filed under Diseases & Conditions
Did you know that pneumonia is still a major cause of death among seniors? Did you know that pneumonia can strike down people of any age? Did you know that today is World Pneumonia Day?
There is more than one type of pneumonia – it can be caused by viruses or bacteria, the most common causes, but also by other means. For example, someone who develops aspiration pneumonia got it by getting vomit, food or drink into their lungs instead of their stomach.
It’s not always obvious if you have pneumonia. You may just not be feeling well. But signs and symptoms of pneumonia include:
- cough
- yellow-green phlegm (mucous)
- shortness of breath
- feeling very tired and unwell
- chest pain
- fever
Can you prevent pneumonia? The best way to prevent pneumonia is to avoid getting sick, as much as possible. This means:
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your mouth when you cough
- Don’t smoke
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise regularly
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Get enough sleep
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Check out what others are saying about this post...[...] here at Blisstree, but most often we talk about seniors and their susceptibility to the illness (November 2: World Pneumonia Day). Sadly, pneumonia also claims the lives of many children around the world. Hugh [...]