Viral pneumonia: Symptoms, causes, and treatment
The symptoms of viral pneumonia are often similar to those of bacterial pneumonia, but, depending on the virus responsible, there may be a few additional symptoms.
Most of the time, viral pneumonia occurs as a complication of viral infections that cause the flu or common cold. In rare cases, viral pneumonia may be life-threatening.
Read on to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of viral pneumonia.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of viral pneumonia may range in severity and can include the following:
- fever
- a cough that is likely to be dry initially but may produce yellow or green mucus after 1 to 2 days
- shortness of breath
- shaking
- chills
- muscle aches
- fatigue
- malaise
- weakness
- loss of appetite
- blue tint to lips
Some people with viral pneumonia may also have a sore throat or a headache, depending on the underlying cause of the viral infection.
Viral pneumonia also presents differently in each age group. Young children with viral pneumonia tend to have mild symptoms that gradually worsen. A child with viral pneumonia may develop noticeable wheezing, and their skin and lips often take on a blue tint from lack of oxygen. They are also likely to lose their appetite.
On the other hand, adults over the age of 65 may experience abnormally low body temperatures, confusion, and dizziness.
Causes
Viruses are responsible for viral pneumonia.
These viruses can include the following:
- influenza viruses A and B
- parainfluenza
- adenoviruses, which cause bronchitis and the common cold
- the varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox and shingles
- respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is most serious in young children but can cause cold-like symptoms in people of all ages
Viruses spread easily when affected people sneeze or cough. Coming into contact with a contaminated surface can also transmit the virus.
A doctor will be able to diagnose viral pneumonia.
They will generally begin by asking about any symptoms and carrying out a physical examination. As part of the examination, the doctor will listen to the lungs for any abnormal sounds that may indicate pneumonia.
These sounds may include crackling in the lungs or wheezing while breathing. A doctor will also look for a rapid heart rate and decreased airflow.
If the doctor suspects that pneumonia may be present, they are likely to order some of the following tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- chest X-ray
- nasal swab to check for viruses
- sputum culture of the mucus from the lungs
- blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) to look for inflammatory markers
- arterial-blood gas test
The tests that the doctor decides to order will depend on the severity of a person’s symptoms and whether or not they are in one of the higher-risk groups.
The viruses that cause viral pneumonia are contagious. During the cold and flu season, a person can take steps to stay healthy. These steps may protect against viral pneumonia and other viral illnesses.
Some techniques that people can use to try to prevent getting sick include:
- washing hands frequently with warm water and soap
- getting a flu shot
- avoiding touching the nose or mouth
- getting enough sleep
- exercising
- eating fresh fruit and vegetables
- keeping a distance from people who are sneezing and coughing
Takeaway
Most people with viral pneumonia recover within 1–2 weeks. Some people may take several weeks to recover fully, especially people who are immunocompromised or adults over the age of 65.
While viral pneumonia is extremely contagious, a person can practice good hygiene and self-care to lower their risk of developing the infection.
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