Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can then fill with fluid or pus. It is a common respiratory infection that can range from mild to severe. While a fever is a frequently observed symptom of pneumonia, its absence does not rule out the infection. Recognizing other indicators is important.
Typical Pneumonia Symptoms
Pneumonia commonly manifests with a range of recognizable symptoms that often prompt individuals to seek medical attention. A persistent cough, frequently producing green, yellow, or even bloody mucus, is a primary indicator. Individuals may also experience shortness of breath, which can worsen with activity, along with rapid breathing.
Chest pain, often described as sharp or stabbing, can occur, particularly when taking deep breaths or coughing. Shaking chills, accompanied by a fever, are also classic signs, signaling the body’s attempt to fight the infection. Other common symptoms include low energy and a general feeling of malaise.
Why Fever Might Be Absent
While fever is a common response to infection, some individuals with pneumonia may not develop one. The body’s immune response, which typically triggers a fever to fight off pathogens, can be blunted in certain populations. Older adults, for instance, may have a less robust immune system and might not exhibit a fever, or they could even have a lower than normal body temperature.
Similarly, individuals with weakened immune systems due to underlying medical conditions or certain medications may also have a diminished fever response. Some types of pneumonia, often referred to as “walking pneumonia,” caused by bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Chlamydophila pneumoniae, typically present with milder or atypical symptoms, including a low-grade fever or no fever at all. These infections may feel more like a bad cold or flu, even without a high fever.
Other Signs of Pneumonia to Watch For
Even without a fever, several other signs can point to pneumonia. These include a persistent cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Shortness of breath and rapid breathing suggest the lungs are struggling to adequately oxygenate the blood. In older adults, changes in mental awareness, such as confusion, can be a significant sign.
Getting a Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing pneumonia typically begins with a thorough medical examination, where a healthcare provider will listen to the lungs for abnormal sounds like crackling or bubbling. A chest X-ray is often performed to confirm the diagnosis and reveal inflammation or fluid in the lungs. Blood tests may also be used to identify signs of infection and sometimes to pinpoint the specific germ causing the illness.
Treatment approaches depend on the cause of the pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics, while viral pneumonia may not require specific medication and often resolves on its own, though antiviral medications can be prescribed in some cases. Supportive care, including rest, ample fluid intake, and over-the-counter medications for pain or fever control, helps manage symptoms. Prompt medical attention is important if pneumonia is suspected, regardless of whether a fever is present, to prevent potential complications.