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Pneumonia

Overview

Open all pages about Pneumonia

Symptoms of pneumonia include a cough (which may have yellow or green mucus), a high temperature, shortness of breath and chest pain.

Pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics. Some people more at risk of becoming seriously ill may need treatment in hospital.

You can help ease the symptoms of pneumonia by taking painkillers, drinking plenty of fluids and resting. Try to stay at home to avoid spreading it.

Pneumonia is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. It may also be caused by something getting into your lungs, such as food or water.

People at high risk of getting seriously ill from pneumonia are advised to get the pneumococcal vaccine to reduce their risk.

Pneumonia is inflammation of the lungs, usually caused by an infection.

Page last reviewed: 12/01/2023
Next review due: 12/01/2026