Have you ever experienced symptoms of cough, fever, or shortness of breath that just won't go away? You might think it's just a common ARI (Acute Respiratory Tract Infection). However, did you know that these symptoms could be a sign of pneumonia, a more serious lung disease? Know the difference between ARI and Pneumonia.
What is ISPA?
ARI is an infection that attacks the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose, throat, and sinuses. ARI symptoms are generally mild and can heal on their own within a few days. Common symptoms of ARI include:
- Cough
- Have a cold
- Sore throat
- Mild fever
- Nasal congestion
What is Pneumonia?
Pneumonia is an infection that attacks the lungs. This disease can be caused by various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia can cause more severe symptoms than ARI, and if not treated properly, can be fatal. Common symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Coughing up phlegm (sometimes with blood)
- High fever
- Hard to breathe
- Chest pain when breathing or coughing
- Shivering
- Fatigue
Key Differences Between Pneumonia and ARI
The main difference between ARI and pneumonia lies in the location of the infection and its severity. ARI attacks the upper respiratory tract, while pneumonia attacks the lungs. Pneumonia is generally more serious and requires more intensive medical care than ARI.
The following is a table of the differences between ISPA and Pneumonia:
|
Feature |
ISPA |
Pneumonia |
|
Location of Infection |
Upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, sinuses) |
Lungs |
|
Reason |
Viruses (in general) |
Bacteria, viruses, fungi |
|
Severity Level |
Mild to moderate |
Seriously, it can be life threatening |
|
Symptom |
Cough, runny nose, sore throat, mild fever |
Cough with phlegm, high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain |
|
Maintenance |
Generally heals on its own, rest, drink plenty of fluids |
Antibiotics (if caused by bacteria), antivirals (if caused by viruses), hospital care (if severe) |
The Importance of Routine Lung Examinations
Given that pneumonia can be fatal, it is important to have regular lung checks, especially for high-risk groups, such as:
- Children under 5 years of age
- Elderly people over 65 years of age
- People with chronic diseases (for example, heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease)
- Smoker
- People with weak immune systems
Routine lung examinations can help detect lung disease early, so that treatment can be carried out quickly and appropriately.
EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital has a team of experienced lung specialists and is equipped with sophisticated diagnostic facilities. We are ready to help you maintain your lung health with the following services:
- Routine lung examination
- Diagnosis and treatment of lung disease
- Lung health consultation
Please do not hesitate to consult our doctors if you experience any suspicious symptoms or have concerns about your lung health. Your lung health is our priority.
Come on, take care of your lung health by having regular check-ups!
Article written by dr. Jubilette Windy, M.Ked (Lung), Sp.P (Lung & Respiratory Specialist, EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).