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Asymptomatic pneumonia is the standard inflammatory process within the lungs. What distinguishes this disease entity is the lack of characteristic symptoms that accompany full-blown pneumonia. So how do you recognize developing inflammation? What are the causes of asymptomatic pneumonia? What is the diagnosis and treatment of this ailment?
Asymptomatic pneumonia – general characteristics
Asymptomatic pneumonia is a term that does not exist in medical terminology as the course of the disease and treatment are no different from standard pneumonia. Asymptomatic pneumonia is an inflammatory process in the lungs that is asymptomatic or with mild symptoms. Adequate treatment of asymptomatic pneumonia rarely leads to complications, and the disease itself is completely treatable.
What are the causes of asymptomatic pneumonia?
Asymptomatic pneumonia, like any other inflammation, can be caused by a viral, bacterial, fungal or atypical infection. It is not uncommon that asymptomatic pneumonia is caused by an allergy or exposure of the respiratory tract to harmful chemical agents. The risk of developing asymptomatic pneumonia is greatly increased if the immune system is weakened. This disease is much more common in children and the elderly, which is associated with abnormalities in the functioning of the immune system. Asymptomatic pneumonia is a disease that is more common in people with eating disorders, low body weight, and congenital cardiovascular and respiratory disorders. Prematurity is also a factor that increases the risk of developing asymptomatic pneumonia.
How to recognize asymptomatic pneumonia?
The name asymptomatic pneumonia does not mean that the disease is light and does not show any signs. The difference, however, is that symptoms are much less severe than with standard pneumonia. The symptoms of asymptomatic pneumonia include:
- significant deterioration in well-being;
- chronic but relatively mild cough;
- apathy;
- chronic fatigue;
- decrease in mental and physical fitness;
- breathlessness which increases with physical activity
- low-grade fever or fever;
- muscle aches;
- chills;
- pain in the chest.
Diagnostics of asymptomatic pneumonia
Asymptomatic pneumonia is often difficult to diagnose. Therefore, in addition to the standard medical history, the doctor should perform or order an additional examination that will help in the correct diagnosis of the disease. The most common test for asymptomatic pneumonia is chest X-ray. Usually it gives one hundred percent certainty that asymptomatic pneumonia will occur.
Do you have disturbing symptoms and need to consult a doctor? Make an e-appointment and receive advice, e-Prescription, e-Release and e-Referral for examinations even in 10 minutes, without leaving your home.
Asymptomatic pneumonia – treatment
Asymptomatic pneumonia is quite mild, so most often treatment is based on properly selected pharmacotherapy. Hospitalization is usually not needed. In addition to antibiotics, the treatment also includes painkillers, antipyretics and preparations that strengthen the immune system.
One of them is a natural supplement with iodine, selenium and vitamin B12, which not only supports the immune system, but also the thyroid gland and nourishes the skin.