10 Common Symptoms of Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a type of lung or respiratory infection that often begins with an innocent cough and turns suddenly into a high fever accompanied by labored breathing. For most people, pneumonia is treatable with prescription medication (in the case of walking pneumonia) with all symptoms vanishing in a few weeks time. However, babies, seniors, and those with other medical conditions, a bout of pneumonia can put you in the hospital with serious symptoms.
Here are the ten most common symptoms of pneumonia…

1. Cough

A flu- or cold-like cough is often the beginning stage of pneumonia, and it can be accompanied by thick green mucus.

2. Fever

A high fever may develop—particularly in babies, small children, and those with other medical conditions.

3. Chills

A sudden cold feeling all over your body in normally warm environments may cause shaking or chills.

4. Labored Breathing

Shortness of breath may result in rapid, shallow, breathing.

5. Chest Pain

Worsening cough, mucus build-up, or labored breathing may cause pain in the chest walls.

6. Increased Heartbeat

When the body suffers infection or labored breathing, the heart rate will increase and the pace will quicken.

7. Fatigue

Feelings of exhaustion or weakness often accompany pneumonia.

8. Nausea

An irritated digestive system, and in severe cases, vomiting can occur.

9. Diarrhea

Pneumonia often irritates the digestive system and causes loose stool or diarrhea.

10. Bloody Mucus

In severe cases, blood may appear in mucus as congestion and cough worsen.