service / Pneumonia

You can treat many cases of pneumonia at home, but pneumonia is also the top cause of hospitalizations in children and adults. When you have signs of pneumonia, the exceptional providers at First Care Bossier in Bossier City and Stonewall, Louisiana, are here to help. They offer on-site diagnostics like X-rays and lab work and create customized treatment plans. If you need medical attention for pneumonia, you can skip the appointment and go to their urgent care or walk-in clinics. Book an appointment online or call the office today.

What causes pneumonia?

Pneumonia occurs when you have an infection in one or both lungs. Though pneumonia arises from many different causes, they’re grouped into four main types:

Bacterial pneumonia

Of the many different types of bacteria that can cause pneumonia, the most common is Streptococcus pneumoniae. Your risk of developing bacterial pneumonia is higher if you:

• Smoke cigarettes
• Have a respiratory disease
• Recently had a viral infection (common cold or flu)
• Recently had surgery
• Have a weakened immune system 

Bacteria have an easier time taking hold in your lungs when you have any of these conditions.

Viral pneumonia

As its name suggests, this type of pneumonia develops due to a virus, often one that comes from the flu.

Mycoplasma pneumonia

This type of pneumonia, caused by Mycoplasma bacteria, is more commonly known as walking pneumonia because it usually causes mild symptoms.

Other types

This category includes pneumonia caused by fungal infections and other less common types of pneumonia.

What symptoms occur if I have pneumonia?

The symptoms caused by pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening. This illness poses the biggest threat when it occurs in infants, young children, people over the age of 65, and anyone with a weakened or suppressed immune system.

You may experience symptoms such as:

• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Cough that may produce mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Mental confusion
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Low body temperature
• Fever
• Fatigue

If you or your child have any signs of pneumonia, don’t wait to get treatment from the caring providers at First Care Bossier.

How is pneumonia treated?

Your provider at First Care Bossier may diagnose pneumonia based on your symptoms and a physical exam. They also do chest X-rays and lab testing on-site, so they have the information needed to determine the best treatment.

Your treatment depends on variables like the type of pneumonia, the severity of your illness, your age, and general health. In most cases, pneumonia is treated at home, but high-risk patients and those with severe symptoms may need more intensive treatment at the hospital.

Your treatment plan may include:

• Antibiotics (for bacterial pneumonia)
• Drinking more fluids
• Getting enough rest
• Oxygen therapy
• Medication to reduce a fever
• Medication to ease pain
• Stopping smoking or vaping

Your provider may recommend medication to calm a cough, but coughing is also beneficial because it loosens and eliminates mucus and fluids in your lungs.

If you need help with pneumonia, call First Care Bossier and Stonewell, book an appointment online, or walk into the urgent care.