Early detection to avoid pneumonia complications

The specialist in Family Medicine at the La Luz University Hospital, the doctor Helena Fernández-Galiano Poyohighlighted this Tuesday that early identification of the symptoms of pneumonia, such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, is of great importance to begin treatment and avoid serious complications, especially in older people, young children and patients with chronic diseases.

“When cough, fever or difficulty breathing persists for more than two or three days, go to the doctor It is essential, especially in people at higher risk. Early detection is the best tool to prevent serious complications.”

In the event that these symptoms are accompanied by high fever, respiratory distress or palpitations, it is equally “important to go to the Emergency Department”, emphasizing that in this way serious complications such as acute respiratory failure or sepsis.

Providing prompt care in the emergency room and providing adequate clinical management can ensure that pneumonia is treated “successfully” and without leaving sequelae.

After this, he explained that older people can express symptoms in a “less obvious” waythrough confusion or alterations in mental status, which can delay the diagnosis, which is why he highlighted that the evaluation of a possible case of pneumonia begins from the first contact with the patient.

“The key is a complete history, a detailed physical examination and, if necessary, the performance of complementary tests,” he added.

This evaluation protocol consists of the analysis of vital signs and acute respiratory symptomsas well as the performance of laboratory or radiological tests, according to clinical criteria.

“A directed clinical history and the experience of the medical team allow for a rapid and accurate assessment, which is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment,” said the specialist, emphasizing that prevention involves vaccination against pneumococcus, flu and Covid-19as well as having respiratory and hand hygiene, and avoid tobacco use.

Fernandez-Galiano It has also recommended maintaining good nutrition, controlling chronic diseases and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants, as these are a series of factors that strengthen defenses and reduce the probability of infection.

Despite this, he has placed special emphasis on that “prevention and vaccination continue to be the best allies to protect respiratory health.”