Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. Symptoms of pneumonia can start suddenly or gradually over a few days and may vary depending on the type of germ causing the infection, your age, and your overall health. Some common symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Cough, which may produce phlegm or pus that can be green, yellow, or even bloody.
- Fever, sweating, and shaking chills.
- Shortness of breath, rapid, shallow breathing, or wheezing noises when breathing.
- Chest pain that gets worse when you breathe deeply or cough.
- Loss of appetite, low energy, and fatigue.
- Confusion or changes in mental awareness, especially in older people.
- Bluish color to lips and fingernails.
It is important to seek medical attention for serious symptoms that could be signs of pneumonia, such as a high fever, bloody or unusually colored mucus, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If you think you or your child has symptoms of pneumonia, contact your doctor immediately.
