Pneumonia Causes

Causes of PNEUMONIA

There are many organisms that can cause pneumonia - most common of them are the many bacteria and viruses in the air. While our body usually prevents these germs from infecting the lungs, sometimes they overpower our immune system, even if the health may be good.¹                           

Pneumonia is therefore classified according to the types of germs that cause it and where infection is acquired.¹

• Community-acquired pneumonia

A Community-acquired pneumonia is the most common type of pneumonia. It occurs in general community setting such as homes etc. It may be caused by bacteria, bacteria-like organisms, certain fungi and some viruses.¹

• Hospital acquired pneumonia:

Many people may catch pneumonia during a hospital stay for some another illness. Hospital-acquired pneumonia can be serious as the bacteria causing it may be more resistant to antibiotics and because the people who get it are already sick. People on ventilators (breathing machine used in ICUs) are at high risk for this type of pneumonia.¹

• Aspiration pneumonia

Aspiration pneumonia occurs when you inhale food, drink, vomit or saliva into their lungs. Aspiration is more likely during swimming, or if the normal gag reflex is impaired, such as in a brain injury or swallowing problem, or excessive use of alcohol or drugs.¹