Pneumonia in older people can quickly become serious and fatal. On World Pneumonia Day, you know the symptoms of this infection that affects one or both lungs and how to prevent it.
Pneumonia is an infection that attacks one or both the lungs of a person, including elderly people. As we age, your immune system becomes weaker and you tend to get infected with all kinds of bacteria and viruses. Bacteria are the common cause of this lung infection in adults. Pneumonia in the elderly can easily become severe, so timely treatment is essential. The problem with finding signs of this infection in older people is that classic symptoms such as fever and cough are not usually present. On World Pneumonia Day, which was observed each year on November 12th, we will explain symptoms and treatment options.
What is pneumonia?
It is a severe pulmonary infection that causes inflammation of the air sac (alveolar) of the lungs. “Alveolar can be filled with fluid or pus, leading to symptoms like coughing and fever, but it is particularly dangerous for older people due to the immune system and other underlying health conditions.
Bacteria are one of the most common causes of this infection in adults, although it can be caused by a variety of bacteria, fungi and viruses, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The most common form of bacterial pneumonia, according to the American Lung Association, only affects part of the lungs. There are four stages of pneumonia.
- congestion: The alveoli are filled with fluid, causing mild cough and fatigue.
- Red liver: Inflammation increases, and the lungs appear red and stiff. Symptoms worsen, with more severe coughing and fever.
- Grey Liver: The immune response continues, and the lungs appear grey due to the breakdown of red blood cells.
- Solved: The body begins to resolve the infection and symptoms gradually improve.
What are the symptoms of pneumonia in the elderly?
Fever or PH cough is a typical symptom of pneumonia. However, older people with this infectious disease usually do not have these signs, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine in 2021. Possible signs of pneumonia in older people include:
- Increased confusion
- Temporary unconsciousness
- shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing, over 30 breaths in one minute
- Racing hearts with pulses over 120 beats per minute
- Circulation problems due to blood pressure loss (systolic values for mercury below 90 mm or diastolic values below 60 mmHg)
“In the case of pneumonia in older people, existing health conditions can also deteriorate,” says Dr. Bajaj. Elderly people with chronic underlying conditions such as heart problems, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease should immediately consult a doctor if they have this infection.
Pneumonia in the elderly: knowing whether they can survive it
“Yes, older people can withstand pneumonia, but the prognosis depends on factors such as the severity of the infection, underlying health conditions, and timely treatment,” experts say. Pneumonia occurs quickly in the elderly and the prognosis is poor. A 2015 survey published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine shows that severe pneumonia mortality rates among elderly people are around 20%.
Another study involving 803 pneumonia patients aged 84 years old showed that one in five patients died during hospitalization. A one-year study published in the European Journal of Geriatric Medicine in February 2024 found that a quarter of survivors were discharged from hospital due to increased dependence on their families. Almost half of the survivors died the following year. Pneumonia in older people can be severe and fatal due to the following factors:
- Aging weakens the immune system and reduces the body’s ability to fight infections.
- “Chronic health conditions such as heart disease and COPD make the lungs more susceptible to infections,” experts say.
- Being bedridden or on a ventilator increases the risk of pneumonia absorbed by the hospital.
- Difficulty in swallowing can lead to aspiration pneumonia, in which food and fluid enter the lungs.
What is the method to treat pneumonia in elderly people?
Treatment of pneumonia in elderly patients includes:
1. Antibiotic therapy
It is tailored to the person based on the severity of the infection. “In outpatients, amoxicillin or doxycycline will be given. It is important to complete the entire course of these medications to ensure that pneumonia is fully treated.
2. Oxygen therapy
People with this infection have breathing problems. Therefore, supplemental oxygen maintains appropriate oxygen levels. As oxygen levels increase, the immune system can better fight infections. Face masks, mechanical ventilation, and nasal cannula are some of the ways in which this therapy can be administered.
3. Hydration and nutrition
Recovering requires liquids and high protein foods. Chicken, eggs and legumes are good options that help with muscle recovery and immune function. If you have difficulty swallowing, give them soft foods such as oatmeal, yogurt, or mashed potatoes.
“Regular evaluation of complications like sepsis (the body has a severe inflammatory response to bacteria, including bacteria) and complications like respiratory failure are also necessary,” experts say.
How to prevent pneumonia in the elderly?
Preventive strategies include
- Pneumococcal vaccine: This vaccine is recommended for adults over the age of 65, infants and those at high risk of pneumococcal infections, and can lead to respiratory infections like pneumonia, according to the UK National Health Service.
- The impact of vaccines: Annual flu shots can reduce the risk of pneumonia.
- no smoking: Stop smoking may reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
- Thick liquid: For those with swallowing problems, thickened fluids can be helpful.
“Making a balanced diet, exercise regularly and following excellent hygiene practices can boost your overall immunity and prevent pneumonia in older people,” says the expert. Pneumonia in elderly people should not be taken lightly as it can become severe. If you know your symptoms, experience shortness of breath, or have a lace mind, check with your doctor.
