What Are The Common Respiratory Illnesses?

Pneumonia

Pneumonia seems to be a lung infection. Specifically, this illness appears to be the result of inflammation in the air sacs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus. This may trigger symptoms such as trouble breathing and a productive cough. Other warning signs of this illness may be vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, fatigue, and chest pain when breathing or coughing. Patients may contract pneumonia due to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This condition may range from mild to life-threatening. Seniors seem to have more serious cases. This may also apply to individuals with existing respiratory issues, mobility problems, or a weak immune system. These individuals may deal with other symptoms, such as confusion and lower body temperatures.

Discover the details on more respiratory illnesses that seem quite common now.

Influenza

Influenza seems to be a viral respiratory illness. The virus may affect the nose, throat, or lungs. This condition may be referred to as the flu, though it does not seem to be the same as the stomach flu. Influenza symptoms may include cough, sore throat, stuffy now, body aches, fever, chills, and fatigue. Some cases are mild and resolve without treatment. However, this condition seems to be prone to complications. These complications may be highest in certain risk groups. Examples of risk groups include seniors, patients younger than five years old, pregnant women, obese individuals, and those with a chronic illness or weak immune system. There is a vaccine for the flu, though it does not seem to be one hundred percent effective. Of course, it may be the best defense against this illness.

Learn about another respiratory illness that may be considered common now.