Risk Factors for Pneumonia
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Pneumonia can bring a host of symptoms including chest congestion, coughing and fever. A serious disease, it can even cause death in certain cases. It is important to understand the different risk factors that may make you more likely to experience pneumonia so that you can avoid them to the extent possible.
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are a number of risk factors that can increase your chances of getting pneumonia. Age is one of the most potent. Older individuals over 65 have a better chance of developing pneumonia. Young children and babies may have immature immune systems, which may leave them more open to developing pneumonia as well.
Your occupation may put you at a greater risk of the flu. If you work in the healthcare field such as in a hospital or doctor’s office, then you are more likely to come into contact with someone with an illness. You may therefore contract it yourself and that illness may lead to pneumonia.
Abuse of alcohol or smoking
When you smoke you can damage the cilia, the microscopic hairs that are on top of the cells in your bronchial tubes. Secretions can then build up, which can lead to pneumonia. Also, alcohol can raise your chances of pneumonia in different ways. You may not be able to fight infection because your white blood cells may not work as well.
If your immune system is compromised because of HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments or other health problems, then you may be more likely to get pneumonia. Other conditions that may exacerbate it include cardiovascular problems, diabetes and asthma.
Intensive care unit hospitalization
Those who are hospitalized in the intensive care unit may be more likely to experience pneumonia in a typically more severe form. Those on respirators are even more at risk because the body’s natural defense cannot work as well.
Those with COPD and using inhaled corticosteroids for a time period greater than 24 weeks are more at risk. The pneumonia you may experience from this can also be serious.
If you have had recent surgery or experienced an injury that was traumatic, you are more likely to get pneumonia. You may have trouble coughing, and fluid can accumulate in your lungs as you lay down for a long period of time.
There are other risk factors associated with pneumonia. Those of Native Alaskan or some Native American heritage are more likely to get it. Also, those who are exposed to damaging chemicals in the air are more at risk. Construction workers or people who work in agriculture may be exposed to these toxic fumes. The lungs can get enflamed, and it can be more difficult to clear them.
Pneumonia can cause serious illness thus it is important to control any risk factors possible. People should know their own risk factors and take whatever precautions may aid them in avoiding this all too common occurrence.
Resources:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pneumonia/DS00135/DSECTION=risk-factors