Pneumonia in the elderly is often not recognized early because the symptoms are similar to a mild flu. However, behind these seemingly mild symptoms lies the risk of serious complications that can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to recognize the signs early and provide appropriate treatment.
The Importance of Early Detection of Pneumonia in the Elderly
Pneumonia, often called wet lungs, is an infection that occurs in the lungs and can be caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Infection can cause inflammation of the alveoli or air sacs in the lungs, causing the sacs to fill with fluid or pus. Although pneumonia can affect anyone, the two age groups most susceptible to its serious effects are children under 2 years of age and the elderly over 65 years of age.
The incidence of pneumonia in the elderly reaches 25-44 cases per 1,000 people, which is four times higher than in young people. The older the age, the greater the risk of death from pneumonia, so it is important to get treatment immediately.
Causes of Pneumonia in the Elderly
Several factors influence the increased risk of pneumonia in the elderly, such as:
- Weakened Immune System: As you age, your immune system weakens, making it harder for your body to fight off the bacteria or viruses that cause pneumonia.
- Other Illnesses: Older adults often have other illnesses such as COPD, stroke, or heart disease, which make them more susceptible to pneumonia.
- Hospital Care: Elderly people often require long hospital stays, making them more susceptible to exposure to pneumonia-causing bacteria or viruses found in the hospital environment.
- Smoking Habit: Many elderly people still smoke and this habit weakens the immune system which can increase the risk of pneumonia.
Recognize the Symptoms of Pneumonia in the Elderly
Symptoms of pneumonia in the elderly can be difficult to recognize because they are similar to other respiratory infections such as the flu or bronchitis. However, there are some common and typical signs that you should still be aware of:
- Coughing up phlegm or blood: The cough becomes more intense and is usually accompanied by thick phlegm, sometimes mixed with blood.
- Fever and shortness of breath: Older adults may experience fever and shortness of breath, especially during light activity.
- Chest pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest may occur when taking deep breaths or coughing.
- Shivering: The body feels very cold and can tremble, a sign that the body is fighting an infection.
- Headache: Infection can cause the body to feel weak and the head to feel heavy or painful.
In addition to the general symptoms above, the elderly can also show more typical symptoms:
- Incontinence (difficulty holding urine/defecation)
Some older adults have difficulty controlling their bowel movements as a reaction to infection. - Confusion or Delirium
Older people may appear confused or dazed which can be an early sign of a serious infection. - Low body temperature
Instead of fever, some elderly people actually experience a decrease in body temperature when infected.
Prevention of Pneumonia in the Elderly
To prevent or reduce the risk of pneumonia in the elderly, several steps that can be taken include:
- Pneumonia Vaccination
Vaccines help protect the body from bacterial or viral infections that cause pneumonia, especially in the elderly whose immune systems have decreased. - Quit smoking
Smoking damages the lungs and weakens the immune system, making it more susceptible to infection. - Enough rest
Getting enough sleep allows the body to recover quickly and maintains the strength of the immune system. - Exercise regularly
Light physical activity such as walking can improve fitness and endurance. - Consume a balanced nutritious diet
Pay attention to consuming balanced nutrition so that the immune system is stronger and can fight infections in the body. - Wash your hands regularly with soap
Washing your hands regularly can reduce the spread of disease-causing germs. - Avoid exposure to air pollution and cigarette smoke
Dirty air and smoke can irritate the lungs and trigger infections, especially in the elderly whose lungs are more sensitive.
By taking the preventive measures above, the risk of pneumonia in the elderly can be significantly reduced. Prevention is much better than cure, especially in the elderly who are more susceptible to serious complications. Therefore, it is important for families to actively participate in maintaining the health of the elderly to stay protected from infection.
Consult a Doctor for Further Treatment
Pneumonia in the elderly is not a condition that can be taken lightly. The symptoms may seem mild at first, but can develop into serious ones if not treated properly. The elderly are at higher risk because of their decreased immune system and are often accompanied by other diseases. Therefore, it is important to recognize the symptoms early and understand the factors that can increase the risk.
Take preventive measures as early as possible, such as vaccination, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke or pollution. If the elderly begin to show signs of respiratory tract infection, immediately consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Article written by Dr. Maria Dewi Caetline, Sp.P (Pulmonary & Respiratory Specialist Doctor, EMC Cikarang & Cibitung Hospital).