Pneumonia

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Description

Pneumonia is a severe inflammation and infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

In a pneumonia infection, the alveoli (air sacs) are filled with fluid and pus which results in them not being able to fill with air and inhibits oxygen from reaching the blood.

The elderly, very young, or immuno-compromised are at the most risk of infection.

Symptoms

The symptoms are dependent on how much of the lung is affected
1. Lobar: One entire lobe is involved
2. Segmental or lobular: Parts of one lobe are involved.
3. Bronchopneumonia: When it affects the alveoli next to the bronchi.

Symptoms may include:
a. Fever and chills.
b. Coughing with sputum that may contain pus
c. Chest pain.
d. Fatigue, drowsiness, and confusion.
e. Laboured, shallow breathing.

Treatments

Pneumonia can be life-threatening (particularly the bacterial form), especially to the elderly, very young, and immuno-compromised. Those at higher risk need to be closely monitored. hospitalization, oxygen, and antibiotics may be required.

Specific treatment will depend on the type and severity of the pneumonia

1. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial pneumonia. Often identifying the specific type of bacteria causing pneumonia and choosing the best antibiotic to treat it could take some time. If symptoms aren’t improving, a different antibiotic may be required.

2. Coughing, it’s best not to eliminate the cough completely since coughing helps loosen and move fluid from the lungs, over-the-counter cough medicines may not lessen coughing caused by pneumonia.

3. Hospilisation may be required if:
a. Confusion about time, places, or people is present
b. Assistance is required to breathe, or breathing is rapid (30 breaths or more a minute)
c. In those older than 65
d. The blood pressure is 90/60 or lower
e. The kidney function has declined
f. The temperature is below normal
g. The heart rate is below 50 or above 100

Children may be hospitalized if:
a. They are 2 months or younger
b. They appear to be lethargic or excessively sleepy
c. They have trouble breathing
d. Their blood oxygen levels are low
e. They appear to be dehydrated

4. Plenty of rest is required.

5. Hydration. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help loosen mucus in your lungs.

6. Diet

7. AVOID smoking

NOTE: It is advisable only to return to work or school if your temperature has returned back to normal and the coughing up of mucus has ceased.
Pneumonia may recur, therefore it is wise not to resume your usual routine until after you are fully recovered.

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Hypochlorous acid nebulising solution – has disinfectant properties, kills pathogens, reduces inflammation, and eliminates biofilm. For upper respiratory and lung infections.
2. Lung formula – traditionally used for breathing difficulties, emphysema, pneumonia, restoring collapsed lungs, lung tissue, and tuberculosis.
3. Buffered Vitamin C – is used to reduce inflammation and as an immune booster.
4. Vitamin B Complex – aids in the production of antibodies and red blood cells, and is important for keeping the mucous membranes healthy.
5. Colloidal silver – helps to reduce inflammation and promotes the healing of lesions in lung tissue.
6. Oxy35 – for oxygenating the body
7. Probiotics
8. Vitamin E – is an antioxidant, protects lung tissue, enhances oxygen utilisation, and improves the immune system.
9. Reishi mushrooms – are helpful with anemia, asthma, and bronchial diseases, it fights infections and is immune boosting.
10. Cell Oxygen – helps to improve oxygenation, assists with the removal of toxins from the body, and improves memory, concentration, and brain function.
11. Echinacea – aids in enhancing immunity.

Causes

Pneumonia is often preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection. The infection itself is usually caught by the inhalation of airborne bacteria deposits. The elderly, very young, or immuno-compromised are at the most risk of infection.

Risk factors for developing pneumonia may include malnutrition, hospitalization or immobilization, alcoholism, exposure, coma, foreign object aspiration into the lungs, a decreased cough reflex (e.g. from smoking), COPD, a bronchial tumor; and treatment with immunosuppressive drugs.

Pneumonia infections can either be bacterial or non-bacterial:
1. Bacterial may include Pneumococcal pneumonia (the most common), Strep pneumoniae, Staph aureus, Group A hemolytic strep, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenzae, Francisella tularensis. Bacterial pneumonia can be dangerous and is often a complication of another condition such as respiratory disease or weakened immune system.

2. Non-bacterial: Viruses, fungi, rickettsias. Non-bacterial types of pneumonia are generally less severe but if not treated can lead to secondary bacterial pneumonia infections.

Underlying Emotions

Unresolved emotional issues, the storing of grief, sorrow, anxiety, and depression. Avoidance of conflict. Not feeling safe in the company of others. Emotional suppression.

Diet

Here are some recommendations:

  1. Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, and clear broths, to stay hydrated and help loosen mucus.
  2. Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods: Include a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals necessary for the immune system to function optimally.
  3. Consume adequate protein: Protein is crucial for tissue repair and recovery. Include lean sources of protein like poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, and tofu in your meals.
  4. Increase antioxidant-rich foods: Antioxidants help fight inflammation and support the immune system. Include foods like berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and colorful vegetables in your diet.
  5. Opt for foods high in vitamin C and zinc: Vitamin C and zinc play important roles in immune function. Include foods such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
  6. Include probiotic-rich foods: Probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, which supports the immune system. Include foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods.
  7. Limit processed and sugary foods: These foods can contribute to inflammation and weaken the immune system. Limit your intake of sugary beverages, refined grains, processed snacks, and high-fat, fried foods.
  8. Adjust consistency if needed: In some cases, pneumonia may make swallowing difficult. If required, modify the texture of food to make it easier to swallow, such as pureeing or blending foods or opting for softer options.

Remedies

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