The Danger of Pneumonia: Who Is Most at Risk? 

You’ve likely heard of pneumonia outbreaks in nursing facilities. However, anyone can contract pneumonia. You could have a mild, moderate, or severe case. 

While most people recover from this infection, it can be deadly, especially for those at heightened risk. 

Certain groups are more vulnerable to life-threatening complications from pneumonia. Our board-certified primary care physicians, physician’s assistants, and nurse practitioners at Comprehensive Primary Care help you understand your risk factors and provide expert preventive and acute care. 

About pneumonia

Pneumonia sends about one million people in the United States to the emergency room annually. It’s an infection that harms your lungs and can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. 

The pathogens create inflammation in your lungs, causing their air sacs to fill with fluid. Pneumonia constricts your breathing and decreases the amount of life-giving oxygen in your bloodstream. 

Pneumonia symptoms 

Common symptoms of pneumonia include:

• Pain in your chest, especially when breathing or coughing
• Chills and fever 
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Coughing, which may include phlegm
• Mental confusion (especially in senior adults)

Your chest may feel tight and hurt when you breathe, especially when you take a deep breath. 

Pneumonia is dangerous

Pneumonia needs prompt treatment to keep it under control. If it progresses, the infection can move from your lungs into your bloodstream, causing sepsis — a life-threatening illness. 

A lung abscess is another dangerous infection that can stem from pneumonia. It means pus is in your lungs. These types of infections can lead to respiratory failure. 

If you’re immunocompromised because of cancer treatment, an autoimmune disease, or another condition, you’re at heightened risk if you develop pneumonia. Your body has a harder time fighting the infection. This underscores the importance of making a doctor’s appointment when you’re sick. 

If left untreated, pneumonia can escalate from a mild illness to a life-threatening condition in a short time.

Risk factors for pneumonia

Pneumonia can impact anyone. However, certain individuals are more at risk of developing a severe case. Those most at risk for severe pneumonia and complications are:

Babies and senior adults

Babies and toddlers under age 2 and adults over age 65 are more at risk of developing pneumonia than other groups. Infant immune systems aren’t yet fully developed. Seniors have weaker immune systems due to aging, making it more difficult to avoid infections. 

A chronic health condition

Do you have a condition like diabetes, heart disease, asthma, or COPD? These conditions can compromise your lung function and reduce your body's ability to clear out infection, making it easier for pneumonia to take hold.

If you or a loved one are hospitalized or are in a long-term care facility, your risk of pneumonia increases. If you need a device like a ventilator, you’re even more exposed to bacteria that might cause pneumonia. 

Having a weakened immune system

If you have cancer, take immunosuppressive drugs, or have HIV/AIDS, you’re at increased risk of pneumonia. Your immune system is compromised. Your body has a difficult time fighting an infection. 

Smokers or those with a substance abuse disorder

You know that smoking is harmful to your body. It’s especially damaging to your lungs, making you more vulnerable to infections like pneumonia. 

Excessive alcohol use and drug abuse also damage your immune system and leave your lungs less able to fight pathogens.

If you’re in one of these high-risk groups, call for an appointment when you’re sick. Your illness can quickly become a severe case of pneumonia. 

Take proactive steps to protect yourself against contracting pneumonia. Make sure you receive all recommended vaccinations. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water frequently, and schedule a sick visit if you have respiratory symptoms. 

Knowing the symptoms of pneumonia, recognizing its dangers, and seeking prompt medical care are important ways to protect your health and your loved ones. 

Call Comprehensive Primary Care or schedule an appointment through our online portal for expert preventative treatment and acute care when you’re sick.