Bronchial pneumonia is a medical condition that affects the lungs and is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Some of the most common symptoms of the condition include cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and fatigue may also be present in those with bronchial pneumonia. Treatment depends on the underlying cause as well as the specific symptoms present, although prescription medications are typically needed.
The type of cough that is generally associated with this type of pneumonia is described as being dry and unproductive. While the cough can be persistent and even painful, there is usually no mucus expelled from the lungs. In rare cases where the cough does become productive, there is often blood mixed with the mucus due to lung inflammation and irritation.
Fever is often among the symptoms of bronchial pneumonia. The fever is usually mild and may be accompanied by chills or sweating. If a high fever develops, a doctor should be consulted right away for further medical evaluation. This type of fever could indicate the presence of a severe infection, which may require intensive treatment in a hospital setting.
Chest pain or discomfort is a commonly reported symptom of bronchial pneumonia. Many patients describe the feeling as a tightness or heaviness in the chest. In some cases, there may be a sharp, shooting pain when the patient inhales. These symptoms are often accompanied by varying degrees of breathing difficulty. Rapid breathing and shortness of breath are common, but any major respiratory distress should prompt immediate medical attention.
Gastrointestinal disturbances sometimes develop as pneumonia symptoms. This may include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Headaches are also common and may be caused due to the strain of the intense coughing spells that occur. Fatigue may be extreme, even when there is no physical activity. This fatigue tends to become worse later in the day and may become so severe that the patient has trouble functioning even at basic levels.
Any of the potential symptoms of bronchial pneumonia should be reported to a doctor, as this condition can become life threatening if left untreated for a prolonged period of time. Prescription medications and rest are often used to treat this condition, although hospitalization may be needed in the more severe cases where breathing support is required. Any questions or concerns about specific symptoms or individualized treatment methods should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.