As your loved ones enter their golden years, the risk of them contracting pneumonia increases. Learn more about the 4 stages of pneumonia and treatment options for pneumonia so that you can ensure your family members have the best chance at recovery if they have pneumonia.
Reasons for Pneumonia
Research shows that as your loved ones enter their golden years, they may get pneumonia as their immune systems might be less able to fend off infections. They may also have chronic health conditions that make them more likely to get pneumonia.
Stages of Pneumonia
- Stage One: Congestion
During the first stage of pneumonia, your loved ones’ lungs will become very congested. During this stage, your loved ones may start to cough and be more tired than usual. They may also have a loss of appetite too. They may start to breathe very rapidly and complain of heaviness in their chest. You may also notice chills and a high fever at this stage. It is also possible that your loved ones be more confused than usual.
- Stage Two: Red hepatization
During the first few days of pneumonia, your loved ones may have yellow sputum. It may also become thicker and become yellow-green. Your loved ones’ sputum may even take on a blood-tinged or even rust-like appearance. Your loved ones might continue to have a fever, chills, and sweating. They may also complain of breathlessness, headaches, and muscle aches. Their fingers and even lips may appear blue or blackish. Their fatigue will worsen, and they may become confused or delirious.
- Stage Three: Gray hepatization
Your loved ones’ symptoms continue to worsen at this stage. They could be having more difficulty with breathing, and may even require oxygen to breathe. They may start to cough up blood and in severe cases, a lung abscess may form. They could also suffer a higher fever and develop night sweats.
- Stage Four: Resolution
At this stage, the infection is clearing up and your loved ones’ airways will start to clear up.  Although your loved ones will probably start to feel better, they might still be coughing. They may still be fatigued and if their lung tissues have been scared, they may complain of pain when they take deep breaths.
Treatment of Pneumonia
Your loved ones’ pneumonia treatment will depend on the type of infection. If your loved one contracts bacterial pneumonia, they may have to be treated with antibiotics. However, if your loved ones contract viral pneumonia, they may just need supportive care. Your loved ones may be hospitalized once they start to experience severe pneumonia symptoms and will be treated with a round of intravenous (IV) antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and respiratory therapy.
By understanding these 4 stages of pneumonia, you can be better prepared to help your loved ones if they get pneumonia. However, you might need to help them recover fully. One service you can engage is assisted living with TerraBella Lake Norman. Our team will provide personalized and dedicated care so that your loved ones will recover in no time to enjoy their life again.
