Pneumonia is a serious infection that affects the air sacs in the lungs. The infection causes inflammation in the lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe.

Pneumonia can lead to severe complications, especially in young children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems. Some of the common signs and symptoms of pneumonia include:.

Fever and Chills

Fever is one of the most common signs of pneumonia. If you have a temperature of 100.4°F or higher, you may have pneumonia. Along with fever, you may experience chills and body aches.

The fever may last for several days and may not go down with over-the-counter fever-reducing medication.

Cough

A cough is another telltale sign of pneumonia. The cough may be persistent and may produce phlegm or mucus. The color and consistency of the mucus may vary. If the mucus is yellow or green, it may indicate an infection.

The cough may become worse at night or when lying down.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of pneumonia. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath, even when you’re resting. Shortness of breath may be accompanied by chest pain or tightness.

These symptoms may indicate that the infection is causing inflammation in your lungs.

Fatigue

Fatigue is another common symptom of pneumonia. You may feel tired and run-down, even if you’ve been getting enough rest. You may also experience muscle weakness and a lack of energy.

Fatigue may be a sign that your body is working hard to fight off the infection.

Nausea and Vomiting

Some people with pneumonia experience nausea and vomiting. This may be a sign that the infection is affecting your digestive system. If you have a persistent cough, you may also experience vomiting from the force of the coughing.

Confusion

In some cases, pneumonia can cause confusion, especially in seniors. If you or a loved one has pneumonia and is experiencing confusion, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Confusion may be a sign that the infection is affecting the brain.

Cyanosis

Cyanosis is a medical term that refers to the bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes. It’s a sign that there isn’t enough oxygen in the blood. Cyanosis can occur in people with severe pneumonia.

If you notice that your lips or nails are turning blue, seek medical attention immediately.

Rapid or Shallow Breathing

Rapid or shallow breathing is another sign of pneumonia. You may feel like you’re breathing faster than usual, even when you’re at rest. You may also feel like you can’t catch your breath, which can make you feel anxious or panicked.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of pneumonia. The pain may be sharp or dull and may be located in one or both sides of the chest. Chest pain may get worse when you cough or take a deep breath.

If you’re experiencing chest pain, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Lack of Appetite

People with pneumonia may experience a lack of appetite. This may be due to nausea or difficulty swallowing. Eating small, frequent meals may help to keep your energy levels up and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to fight off the infection.