It is, in fact, the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Pneumonia is more common in infants, the elderly, and in those who have low immunity to infection. The elderly do not always have symptoms such as a fever or cough when they have pneumonia. The infection can be caused by various agents, including bacteria, viruses, fungus, and parasites. A minor cold or flu may occur first.
Germs then begin to grow in the trapped secretions in the lungs.
In severe cases, these germs spread to other parts of the body. This can be very dangerous. If pneumonia is suspected, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment. The main symptoms are coughing, chest pain, shaking chills, fever, and the production of phlegm or sputum that may be discolored or even contain some blood. A culture of coughed up sputum may also be done to identify the specific cause.