Pneumonia is an acute inflammation of the lung tissue caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. It can also be caused by inhaling foreign bodies or harmful substances. Pneumonia is one of the most common fatal infectious diseases in industrialised countries.
Symptoms can include very high fever, chills, aching limbs, phlegm, coughing, shortness of breath or chest pain. However, some forms of pneumonia have very few symptoms. It is always a serious illness that can be very dangerous, particularly for people with a weaker immune system (small children, elderly people).
Its treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to avoid complications and long-term problems.