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Pneumonia

Also called Lung infection

Pneumonia is swelling (inflammation) of the tissue in one or both lungs, usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. The small air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid, making it harder to breathe. It can affect anyone, but babies, older people, smokers and people with other long-term conditions are more at risk.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Mild pneumonia can usually be treated at home with antibiotics, rest and fluids. More serious cases need hospital treatment.

Recovery can take several weeks. Vaccines such as the pneumococcal and flu vaccines help prevent it.

Common signs

  • A cough, which may bring up yellow, green or bloody mucus
  • Shortness of breath
  • A high temperature
  • Chest pain when breathing or coughing
  • Feeling generally unwell
  • Confusion in older people

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Listening to the chest
  • Checking oxygen levels
  • Chest X-ray
  • Blood and sputum tests

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Chest X-ray reports
  • Blood test and sputum results
  • Discharge letters
  • Vaccination records

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Do I need a follow-up X-ray?
  • How long will recovery take?
  • Which vaccines should I have?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Severe breathlessness, blue lips, confusion, or chest pain: call 112

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Chest infectionAn infection of the lungs or airways, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Most are mild and clear up on their own.SepsisA life-threatening reaction to an infection, where the body starts to damage its own organs. It is an emergency that needs treatment fast.PleurisyInflammation of the lining around the lungs, causing sharp chest pain when breathing. It is often caused by a viral infection.