Bacterial Pneumonia Review
Causes: Bacterial pneumonia is typically caused by various bacteria, with Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) being the most common. Other frequent pathogens include Haemophilus influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Risk factors include chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., COPD), immune system disorders (e.g., cancer, AIDS), and conditions leading to aspiration or bacteremia.
Symptoms: Common symptoms include:
- Cough (often productive with colored, sometimes bloody, sputum)
- Fever and chills
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain (worse when breathing or coughing)
- Fatigue
Severe cases may present with moderate-to-severe respiratory distress, hypoxemia (SpO₂ < 90% on room air), dehydration, or toxic appearance (NHS, 2023).
Treatment:
- Antibiotics: First-line treatment for bacterial pneumonia. The choice depends on the suspected pathogen, local resistance patterns, and patient factors. Common options include:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae: Amoxicillin or a macrolide (e.g., azithromycin) for outpatients; respiratory fluoroquinolones or ceftriaxone for hospitalized patients (CDC, 2025).
- Haemophilus influenzae: Amoxicillin/clavulanate or a macrolide (NHS, 2023).
- Duration: Outpatients: 7–10 days; hospitalized patients: 10–14 days (RAG, 2025).
- Supportive care: Hydration, oxygen therapy (if SpO₂ < 90%), and rest.
Prevention:
- Vaccination (e.g., pneumococcal vaccine for at-risk groups).
- Good hygiene (handwashing, covering coughs).
- Smoking cessation and managing chronic conditions (Verywell Health, 2023).
Critical Notes:
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms (e.g., high fever, difficulty breathing).
- Inform your doctor about any allergies or underlying conditions (e.g., COPD, heart disease) to tailor treatment.
Sources:
- NHS. (2023). Pneumonia. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pneumonia/
- CDC. (2025). Pneumonia Guidelines. [RAG, 2025]
- Verywell Health. (2023). Pneumonia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. https://www.verywellhealth.com/pneumonia-7151990