What are the main symptoms of pneumonia?

Generally, the main symptoms of pneumonia include fever, cough, sputum production, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. If experiencing any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a qualified hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Fever

Pneumonia is often caused by infection with pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. After invading the lungs, these pathogens activate the immune system, triggering the release of inflammatory factors that stimulate the body's temperature-regulating center, leading to fever. Patients often have temperatures exceeding 38°C, and some with severe illness may experience persistent high fever accompanied by chills, body aches, and fatigue.

2. Cough

After the lungs are attacked by pathogens, inflammation irritates the bronchial mucosa, causing mucosal congestion and edema, and increasing secretion from the respiratory mucosa. The cough reflex helps expel foreign substances and secretions, resulting in coughing. Initially, the cough is often dry, but as the disease progresses, sputum production develops, and the frequency of coughing increases with worsening inflammation.

3. Sputum Production

Inflammation in the lungs causes increased secretions from the alveoli and bronchial mucosa. These secretions, mixed with pathogens and dead cells, form sputum that is expelled through coughing. In bacterial pneumonia, sputum is often yellow or green and purulent; in viral pneumonia, it is typically white and mucoid; and in mycoplasma pneumonia, it is usually small in amount and mucoid.

4. Chest Pain

When the pleura is involved by inflammation, congestion and edema develop on the pleural surface. During breathing or coughing, pleural friction occurs, stimulating nerve endings and causing chest pain. Patients often describe the pain as sharp or dull, and it worsens with breathing or coughing. In some cases, the pain may radiate to the shoulder or abdomen, affecting the normal breathing rhythm.

5. Difficulty Breathing

Lung inflammation damages the alveoli, impairing gas exchange and reducing oxygen intake. The body compensates by increasing the respiratory rate, resulting in difficulty breathing. Patients often feel short of breath and experience increased breathlessness with physical activity. In severe cases, signs such as nasal flaring and cyanosis of the lips may appear.

In addition, some patients may experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or confusion. If any of the above symptoms occur, it is important to rest in bed and avoid physical strain.