“Beware: The Serious Threat of Pneumonia to Elderly and How to Prevent It”

Dr. Natthaphong Wongwiwat, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, revealed that pneumonia in the elderly Most of them are caused by getting infected through the respiratory system. causing lung inflammation Resulting in the inability to exchange oxygen in the lungs normally.

It is often found that it is a continuous symptom of influenza or an infection from those around you who can cough and sneeze. Pneumococcal infections can occur at any age.

The degree of severity of the disease will be different. Patients over 65 years of age have low disease resistance. Therefore, there is a risk of severe disease and complications that can lead to death. The duration of the disease is uncertain depending on the type of infection, which may be as short as 1-3 days or as long as a week. After starting to get sick with the flu

If the patient begins to cough with sputum, shortness of breath Chest pain, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, and high fever are signs that it’s not just the flu. but may also have pneumonia The symptoms of pneumonia in the elderly may include other non-specific symptoms, the most common being lethargy or confusion. And it doesn’t have to have a fever or a cough before.

Dr. Jinda Rojamethin, director of Rajavithi Hospital, said that pneumonia is caused by a bacterial infection. It can be treated with both oral and injectable antiseptics. In most cases, symptoms improve within a few days. Viral lung infections are usually less severe than bacterial infections. The treatment is therefore considered according to the symptoms.

However, patients are advised to take care of themselves to be healthy by eating nutritious food from all 5 food groups and drinking enough water. and rest appropriately If the patient has underlying disease, the doctor may consider staying in the hospital until complete recovery. to help restore good health Ready to go back to normal daily life including preventing complications which is especially dangerous for the elderly

Special Asst. Prof. Dr. Somkid Ounsemathum, MD. Songwut Doctor of Medicine, Internal Medicine Internal Medicine Rajavithi Hospital said that the elderly should always take care of their health by eating nutritious food, using a serving spoon, and avoiding spicy and high-fat foods. Drink enough water and get enough rest. exercise regularly

Avoid being near people with influenza or people who are coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching and sharing personal items with others. Reduce going to crowded places during cold or flu outbreaks. Get vaccinated against influenza every year. Because influenza is changing strains all the time.

The effectiveness of the vaccine can prevent infection with influenza about 70-80% should be vaccinated against influenza. Before the rain about May-June which is during the flu epidemic

and should receive the Pneumococcal vaccine with medical advice first to prevent pneumococcal infection that is a common cause of bacterial pneumonia in the elderly