Pneumonia is an infection which is caused by single celled organisms that include viruses, bacteria, protozoa or fungi. These are transmitted through close contact with someone who is infected with them. Strep pneumonia is caused by the gram positive streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. These microorganisms can gain entry in the body through the nose or mouth and spread to the air sacs within the lungs.

With strep pneumonia the air sacs fill up with pus or fluid and the oxygen needs of the body are not fulfilled. This infection is most common among elderly individuals or those whose immune systems are compromised. There are some symptoms associated with this condition that can help in its diagnosis.

The symptoms associated with strep pneumonia include shaking, high fever, chest pain, chills, chattering teeth, sweating, and rapid pulse rate, along with rapid breathing. Patients may also have cough that may produce greenish or rust colored mucous. The infection can spread through the droplets that may be released in the air when a person suffering from this infection sneezes or coughs. Sharing of items like straws and cups with someone having this infection can also result in transmission of this infection.

The incubation period for strep pneumonia can be between one to around three days following the exposure. The bacteria can live in the throat and nose of many healthy individuals without resulting in symptoms. With the aid of some tests this condition can be identified and a treatment plan for the same can be devised.

For the diagnosis of strep pneumonia the medical history of the patient is taken along with physical examination. Initially a stethoscope is used as tool to listen to the chest sounds. This can help in identifying crackling sounds, wheezing or other problems like coarse breathing. A doctor may also be able to identify faint breathing in particular areas of the chest with a stethoscope.

A chest X-ray can also help in diagnosis of strep pneumonia. Often a chest X-ray is able to pinpoint patches or white areas in the lung where fluid or pus accumulation takes place. A sputum sample may also be taken to identify this condition and a blood test can also help in diagnosis. In some cases these tests may remain inconclusive and in such a situation some other tests may be required.

Some other tests that may be conducted so as to diagnose strep pneumonia may include bronchoscopy. As a part of this procedure a viewing tube is inserted through the mouth or nose and the breathing passage along with the lungs are directly examined. The treatment of this condition depends on the severity of the condition.

This condition is treated through some antibiotics like penicillin, erythromycin along with ampicillin-clavulanate. Pneumonia can be prevented by getting the pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine can be effective for those having a weak immune system or those suffering from chronic ailments like kidney and heart diseases along with diabetes. It is crucial that a person practices good hygiene and gets influenza shot every fall to prevent pneumonia.