Health Tip: Diagnosing Pneumonia

(HealthDay News) -- Pneumonia is a lung infection that most often spreads through coughing, sneezing or touching.

Most people recover in one to three weeks, but pneumonia can be deadly, especially among people with weaker immune systems.

The American Lung Association explains how pneumonia may be diagnosed:

  • Physical exam: Your doctor will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. If you have pneumonia, your lungs may make bubbling or crackling sounds when you inhale.
  • Chest X-ray.
  • Blood test.
  • Arterial blood gases. This test will determine if enough oxygen is getting into your blood from the lungs.
  • CT scan of the chest.
  • Sputum test. This will help doctors identify the organism causing your symptoms.
  • Bronchoscopy. This procedure allows doctors to look directly into the lungs' airways.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Wildfire Smoke Alters Immune System, Study Says

    What to Know About Anaphylaxis: Symptoms, Triggers & Treatment

    UV Light Effective Against Indoor Allergens, Study Says

    Many Kids Unnecessarily Hospitalized Following Allergic Reactions

    How to Tell if Spring Symptoms Owe to Allergy, Cold or Something More Serious

    New Discovery Could Change How Asthma Is Treated, Scientists Say

    Severe Asthma Often Comes With Other Serious Health Problems

    Holiday Tips To Keep Allergies and Asthma Under Control

    Heavy 'Forever Chemical' Exposure Before Birth Increases Childhood Asthma Risk, Study Finds

    Racial Gap Exists For Asthma Inhaler Use

    Childhood Flu Shots Prevent Millions of Cases, Study Finds

    New Flu Strain Weakened This Year’s Vaccine Protection, CDC Says

    Watching the Super Bowl? Doctors Warn About Hidden Health Risks for Fans

    RFK Jr. Says Fewer Flu Vaccines for Kids May Be a 'Better Thing'

    Pentagon Drops Flu Vaccine Requirement For U.S. Military