For many people, the symptoms of a cough, fever, and muscle aches can be confusing. You may have no idea what kind of illness you have, but you may suspect that it is pneumonia.

It takes a visit to a doctor's office to receive a pneumonia diagnosis and to understand what kind of treatment is available. Before you visit the doctor's office, you might want to know what to expect. This is what pneumonia looks like.

What Kinds of Pneumonia Are There?

Several types of pneumonia exist. Contrary to popular opinion, you can get pneumonia at any point in the year, not just in the winter. No matter the type or the time of year, pneumonia can be serious.

One of the mildest types of pneumonia is called walking pneumonia, or mycoplasma. Many people don't realize they have pneumonia because the symptoms feel like they simply have a cold. Symptoms may include sore throat, weakness, and a cough. It is still very contagious.

Bacterial pneumonia is also common. It mostly occurs in individuals who have a chronic disease or immune system impairments. Your body may struggle to fight the bacteria, which can lead to infection.

Then, there is viral pneumonia. Many different viral infections can result in pneumonia, and the symptoms can be severe. Many people experience severe cough, chills, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and fever.

What Does Pneumonia Diagnosis Look Like?

You should always see a doctor if you suspect you have pneumonia. Your doctor will first try to diagnose you with the condition. Diagnosis may include a physical exam and a chest x-ray. In some cases, the doctor can determine your illness based on a blood test.

What Kind of Treatment Should You Expect?

Treatment for pneumonia varies based on your diagnosis. If you have bacterial pneumonia, an antibiotic is helpful. If you have viral pneumonia, the same treatment isn't going to help. You may need to rest and stay hydrated, or you may need to come to the hospital. Each case is different.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have Pneumonia?

If you suspect that you have pneumonia, you should talk to your doctor. Your family medical clinic can diagnose your pneumonia or determine if something else might be wrong. You will receive the treatment and comfort available to you.

Call a family medical clinic today to learn more about pneumonia and other health ailments you may face.

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