What You Need to Know about Pneumonia and Older People
Seniors are susceptible to pneumonia as their immune system is not strong like before. But pneumonia can also be dangerous if the diagnosis and treatment are not timely done. Recommended Read: Walking pneumonia – Introduction, symptoms, and home remedies Dangers of Pneumonia in Older People Pneumonia carries a risk for people in all age groups . Pneumonia in elderly can be particularly dangerous as it can weaken the immune system. Pneumonia can cause complications such as low blood pressure and kidney problems. If seniors plan to use any implanted medical devices, these can become infected too. Pneumonia caused by bacteria can be specifically dangerous for seniors as it can cause meningitis or lung damage. Seniors also suffer from many health problems, which can increase their risks of contracting pneumonia. These conditions can be Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, asthma or cystic fibrosis. Alcoholism and nursing home stays can also increase chances of infections for the elderly. Symptoms The pneumonia symptoms in seniors can vary depending on the nature of the infection (bacterial or viral). But common symptoms are fever, chills, coughing, lethargy, difficulty breathing, nausea, wheezing and headache. Bacterial infections can cause symptoms like high fever, increased heart rate, and excessive sweating.