Pneumonia in Norwegian: what to know

Pneumonia inflames the air sacs where oxygen passes into the blood. Bacteria and viruses can cause it; influenza and COVID-19 are possible triggers. A person may develop cough, fever, chills, phlegm, chest discomfort, tiredness or shortness of breath. Pneumonia can affect one part of a lung or more extensive areas. Symptoms vary, and older adults may become confused or unusually weak without a high fever. A clinician may listen to the chest and arrange oxygen checks, blood tests or a chest image depending on the examination.

Contact a doctor or urgent care service for new breathlessness, chest pain, high fever, marked weakness, or symptoms that are not improving. Treatment depends on the cause: antibiotics may be used for bacterial infection, while viral pneumonia needs supportive care and treatment of the underlying illness. Rest, fluids if you can drink safely, and fever relief suitable for you may help. Avoid smoking and limit close contact while feverish or coughing. Do not use leftover antibiotics.

Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, inability to stay awake, or rapidly worsening illness. These signs can indicate dangerously low oxygen or a serious infection such as sepsis. People who are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or living with heart or lung disease should seek advice promptly because complications can develop more quickly.

Ask what findings support pneumonia, whether you need a chest image or oxygen measurement, which treatments are appropriate, and what change should prompt reassessment. Tell the clinician about recent influenza or COVID-19, medicines, allergies and existing lung conditions.