Pneumonia is a condition affecting the lungs and in this infection inflammation of lung tissue occurs. Acute pneumonia may be caused by the pneumococcus bacteria and these may be found within the bronchial secretions of the lung that is affected. Pneumonia most frequently affects the lower lobes or the base in the lungs and in many cases the right lung is affected by this condition.

This condition may affect a single or both the lungs in individuals. The basic symptoms associated with pneumonia include fever, disturbed respiration, chest pain and cough. Sputum in pneumonia may be brownish, yellowish or greenish in color. Physical examination of this condition can help physicians diagnose cases of acute pneumonia.

In acute pneumonia certain complications may be observed and these include pleurisy. In this the two pleura layers covering the lung and inner wall of chest are affected by accumulation of fluid in the space within these two layers. This complication is also referred to as pleuritis and causes sharp chest pain along with chest tenderness, shortness of breath and cough.

Another complication in acute pneumonia includes pericarditis which refers to inflammation of the tissue layers that surround the heart. Endocarditis may also be one of the possible complications and it causes inflammation of the heart’s inner lining and the valves. These complications can occur due to septic poisoning. One of the most serious complications in this condition includes meningitis and this causes a large number of fatalities.

The acute pneumonia treatment plan includes a number of aspects including general hygienic treatment along with treatment of the specific symptoms. The treatment plan may also include administrating vaccines to individuals. It is important for patients suffering from this condition to get complete rest along with plenty of fresh air. A healthy diet plan should also be followed.