Brand new research has uncovered that more people die from pneumonia across the United Kingdom than anywhere else in Europe.
The disease is a swelling of lung tissue, usually caused by a bacterial infection of a virus, according to the National Health Service.
And with sub zero temperatures soon approaching with the bitter winter ahead, the risk of developing the condition increases substantially - with the elderly being most at risk.
However, The Mirror reports that all age groups are susceptible.
Experts have urged residents to stay vigilant of the warning signs of pneumonia, to prevent it from becoming serious - or in the worst cases, even fatal. So here are the signs and symptoms you simply shouldn't ignore this winter.
What causes pneumonia?
Pneumonia is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Besides bacterial pneumonia, other types of pneumonia include:
- Viral pneumonia – caused by a virus, such as coronavirus
- Aspiration pneumonia – caused by breathing in vomit, a foreign object, such as a peanut, or a harmful substance, such as smoke or a chemical
- Fungal pneumonia – more likely to affect people with a weakened immune system but rare in the UK
- Hospital-acquired pneumonia – pneumonia that develops while you're being treated for other conditions in hospital.
What are the signs of pneumonia?
Symptoms of typically develop either as fast as 24 hours or over a gradual period. The most common signs to be aware of are:
- A dry and/or phlegmy cough
- Rapid breathing
- Breathlessness
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Sweating and shivering
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid heartbeat
- Coughing up blood
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Wheezing
- Muscle pain
- Confusion.
How to protect yourself against pneumonia
The best way to protect yourself from pneumonia, especially if you have a lung condition that increases your risk, is by making sure your vaccines are up to date. Take your flu jab as well as Covid and pneumonia vaccines if eligible, as this could help save your life.
Those eligible for a free pneumonia vaccine on the NHS include:
- Adults aged 65 or older
- Adults and kids with a long-term health condition such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis and severe asthma
- Adults at occupational risk, such as metal workers and welders
- Babies as part of their usual vaccination schedule.
You can find out more about the risks and symptoms of pneumonia on the NHS site.
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