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

    Food Allergies in College 101: Tips to Cope

    FDA Approves First Nasal Spray to Curb Anaphylaxis, An Alternative to Injections

    Watchdog Group Says U.S. Food Recalls Rose Again Last Year

    Planning Safe Summer Camp Fun for Kids With Allergies & Asthma

    Spring Allergies Have Wide-Ranging Effects

    Marijuana Use Could Raise Asthma Risks

    Asthma Risk Doubles in People With Diabetes

    Wildfires in Western U.S., Canada Create Hazardous Air Conditions

    September is Peak Asthma Month: Is Your Child Ready?

    Planning Safe Summer Camp Fun for Kids With Allergies & Asthma

    Is It a Cold, Flu or COVID? An Expert Helps You Sort It Out

    What You Need to Know About FluMist, the Nasal Flu Vaccine

    Respiratory Illnesses in China Not Caused by New Virus, CDC Director Testifies

    Most Americans Won't Get Vaccinated as Flu, COVID Season Looms: Survey

    Florida Dolphin Found Infected With Bird Flu