Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton has recently passed away due to pneumonia, as confirmed by her family. The actress died at the age of 79. The circumstances surrounding any potential underlying health conditions that may have contributed to her death remain unclear.
Understanding Pneumonia: The Lung Infection
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs. According to medical sources, this condition can result in the sacs filling with fluid or pus. The primary symptoms include:
- Cough with phlegm or pus
- Fever and chills
- Difficulty breathing
The severity of pneumonia varies. It can range from mild to life-threatening and poses a higher risk to infants and individuals over the age of 65. Those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are also more susceptible to severe illness.
Causes of Pneumonia
The pathogens responsible for pneumonia can be bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The immune system typically protects the lungs from these germs; however, some can evade these defenses. Notably, respiratory viruses such as influenza and COVID-19 are common culprits.
Among the various forms, “walking pneumonia” caused by bacteria is milder than other types. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is a serious concern, especially for patients with a weakened immune response or those on ventilation support. Aspiration pneumonia can also occur when food or liquid is inhaled.
Symptoms of Pneumonia
Symptoms may vary by individual but can include:
- Chest pain during breathing or coughing
- Fatigue and confusion
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Complications can arise from pneumonia, such as sepsis and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Individuals experiencing severe symptoms like persistent cough, high fever, or chest pain should seek medical attention promptly.
Pneumonia’s Serious Nature
Pneumonia can escalate quickly, especially in vulnerable populations. Even healthy individuals can experience sudden, severe illness due to this infection. Sepsis can develop as the body reacts to severe infections, posing a life-threatening risk.
Prevention and Treatment
Maintaining good hygiene and a healthy immune system is vital for preventing pneumonia. Vaccination is recommended for specific groups, including children under the age of five and older adults. Recent recommendations also advocate for lowering the minimum age for pneumococcal vaccines to 50.
While vaccines exist for certain types of pneumonia, they don’t cover all strains. Consultation with a healthcare provider can determine the need for vaccines and any potential boosters necessary for enhanced protection.
