Viral Pneumonia
- Viral Pneumonia Overview
- Viral Pneumonia Causes
- Viral Pneumonia Symptoms
- When to Seek Medical Care
- Exams and Tests
- Viral Pneumonia Treatment
- Self-Care at Home
- Medical Treatment
- Next Steps
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Viral Pneumonia Overview
Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lungs. It can be in just one part of the lungs, or it can involve many parts. Pneumonia is caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. The severity of pneumonia depends on which organism is causing the infection. Viral pneumonias are usually not very serious, but they can be life-threatening in very old and very young patients, and in people whose immune systems are weak.
Even severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), which is believed to have a viral cause, has caused very few deaths (approximately 3-4% of all cases) as of March 19, 2003. For the latest information on this illness, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site.
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Viral Pneumonia
Bronchitis Overview
Bronchitis is an acute inflammation of the air passages within the lungs. It occurs when the trachea (windpipe) and the large and small bronchi (airways) within the lungs become inflamed because of infection or other causes.
- The thin mucous lining of these airways can become irritated and swollen.
- The cells that make up this lining may leak fluids in response to the inflammation.
- Coughing is a reflex that works to clear secretions from the lungs. Often the discomfort of a severe cough leads you to seek medical treatment.
- Both adults and children can get bronchitis. Symptoms are similar for both.
- Infants usually get bronchiolitis, which involves the smaller airways and causes symptoms similar to asthma.
Bronchitis Causes
Bronchitis occurs most often during the cold and flu season, usually co...
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Pneumonia, Viral »
Viral respiratory tract infections are the most common cause of symptomatic human disease among children and adults.
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