Pneumonia, also known as pneumonia, is a respiratory disease that involves inflammation of the lung tissues.
Pneumonia is most often the result of infections caused by viruses, bacteria or, less commonly, fungi. This inflammatory process usually affects the walls of the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs and the severity of the disease can vary from mild symptoms to severe breathing difficulties.
The most common symptoms and signs of pneumonia can include:
High body temperature with fever.
Cough, often with pus or thick phlegm.
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
Chest pain that may increase during breathing.
Feeling tired and fatigued.
Chills and shivers.
Rapid heartbeat and breathing.
The disease of the lungs and respiratory system is diagnosed with the help of a medical examination and imaging techniques. Treatment depends on the cause of the illness and may involve taking antibiotics for bacterial infection or symptomatic treatment for viral infection, such as fever and painkillers.
In severe cases of pneumonia, hospitalisation may be necessary, especially in case of the older people and immunocompromised. Hand washing, vaccinations such as the pneumococcal vaccine and flu vaccine, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle such as avoiding smoking and eating a healthy diet are important preventive measures.
Types of the disease of the lungs and respiratory system
Bacterial pneumonia: Bacterial infections are usually the most common type of pneumonia. Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is the most common pathogen, but other bacteria can also cause pneumonia.
Viral pneumonia: Viruses such as influenza, rhinoviruses or coronaviruses can also cause pneumonia. The symptoms of viral pneumonia can be similar to those of bacterial pneumonia, but are usually milder.
Atypical pneumonia: Atypical pneumonia is caused by pathogens that are not associated with conventional pneumonia. These may include Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae or Legionella pneumophila. These infections often cause mild to moderate symptoms.
Aspiration pneumonia: aspiration pneumonia is a condition where contents from the mouth or stomach enter the lungs. This often occurs because the patient accidentally spills something or ingests it during a meal.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-related pneumonia: people with COPD are more likely to develop pneumonia because the airways in the lungs are already damaged and more prone to infection.
Pneumonia in immunocompromised patients: people with compromised or weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to severe pneumonia because the immune system is unable to protect them effectively against infection.
Disease of the lungs and respiratory system at old age
To understand the importance of diagnosis and treatment in old age, it is first worth understanding that older people often face greater health risks. Over time, the immune system weakens and the body becomes less resistant to infections and other health problems. In addition, older people may be more prone to a number of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
For these reasons, older people may be more likely to suffer from the disease of the lungs and respiratory system and, if they develop the disease, its treatment and care is of paramount importance.
Here are some reasons why diagnosis and treatment are important in old age:
Risk of more severe symptoms and complications: older people may be more prone to more severe symptoms and complications if they develop the disease. This can lead to higher hospitalisation and mortality rates in older age.
Chronic health problems: older people often suffer from chronic health problems that can increase their risk of pneumonia and make it harder for them to cope.
Weakening of the immune system: over time, the immune system becomes less effective, which can make older people more susceptible to infections. The immune response against pneumonia may also weaken, making it harder for older people to resist infection.
Other medical conditions: older people often take more medication and suffer from more chronic conditions, the effects of which may affect the treatment and response to the disease of the lungs and respiratory system.
Faster deterioration in health: in older people, diseases can spread and deteriorate more quickly because the body is no longer as resilient and restorative as it was.
Can balms help with pneumonia?
Balms and essential oils are not a substitute for medical treatment, but they can help to relieve the symptoms. However it is important to note that they are not a substitute for antibiotics prescribed by your doctor!
Eucalyptus oil: eucalyptus oil can be added to hot water and you can inhale the steam to help relieve breathing difficulties. Eucalyptus essential oil has antimicrobial properties that can help fight infection.
Tea tree oil: tea tree oil has similar antimicrobial properties and can help fight bacteria and viruses. However, it should only be used topically, for example for inhalation or application through the skin.
Chamomile oil: chamomile oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve irritation caused by pneumonia.
Balms with menthol: Some balms containing menthol can relieve the cough and irritated airways associated with pneumonia.
The natural herbal extracts and essential oils in PulmoFresh balm can help ease breathing, soothe coughs and relieve the unpleasant symptoms of colds.
The use of PulmoFresh herbal balm is recommended for colds, coughs and cold complaints!
Instructions for use
For massage, rubbing
It is recommended to use 3-5 times a day, using a finger-sized amount. The balm should be applied to the chest and back area, then massaged and rubbed in thoroughly. It’s more effective before going to bed, as the essential oils released by the balm, when inhaled, promote restful sleep
For inhalation
Add 1 teaspoon of PulmoFresh balm to half a litre of hot water and mix well. This will create a vapour which should be inhaled for about 20 minutes.