Risk factors

Risk factors for pneumonia and bronchitis include:

• Poor nutrition and general infirmity (such as from alcohol abuse or while recovering from surgery)
• Chronic illness (lung disease, kidney disorders, sickle cell anemia, diabetes)
• Weakened immune systems (such as from AIDS or use of immunosuppressant drugs)

People over age 65 (especially those in nursing homes or other chronic care facilities) are at greatest risk for bacterial (pneumococcal) pneumonia. Pneumonia may still occur even if none of the above risk factors are present, but individuals who have these risk factors should be cautious.

Additional risk factors for bronchitis include:

• Smoking and secondhand smoke
• Chronic sinus infections
• Allergies
• Air pollutants, such as smoke or smog
• Contact with infected persons

Preventive measures

Because pneumonia and bronchitis can be caused by influenza (flu), getting a flu shot every fall is a good way to prevent these conditions from developing.

A vaccine is also available against pneumococcal pneumonia. It is usually given only to people at high risk of getting the disease and its life-threatening complications.

The bacteria and viruses that cause pneumonia and bronchitis are contagious and are usually found in fluid from the mouth or nose of an infected person. Illness can spread by coughs and sneezes, by drinking glasses and eating utensils, and in used tissues or handkerchiefs. Therefore, patients should exercise care in preventing spread of these diseases to other people.

The best way to prevent pneumonia and bronchitis is to get early treatment for any respiratory symptoms that last more than a few days. It is also helpful to increase your resistance to all respiratory diseases by maintaining good health habits, eating a proper diet, and by getting plenty of rest and regular exercise. These activities will also help you recover faster, if illness does occur.