Top 6 Tips For Preventing Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that often occurs from underlying causes such as the flu and the common cold. In this article, we show you the strategies to prevent it.

Pneumonia is an infectious disease of the respiratory system that often occurs as a result of other conditions such as the flu and the common cold. It can occur at any age, but babies and the elderly are most likely to develop it. How to prevent pneumonia?

Several strategies have been devised to prevent the onset of this disease. In fact, there are two types of vaccines that lower the risk, especially in the most vulnerable population. Here are some other key habits to protect yourself from this condition.

6 tips to prevent pneumonia

Pneumonia is not a contagious disease, although it usually follows a respiratory infection, such as the flu or the common cold. These, in turn, are caused by viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms. Fortunately, there are preventative measures that can be essential to prevent its development.

1. Get vaccinated

There are currently two types of vaccines that help prevent pneumonia: the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine ( PCV13 or Prevnar 13 ) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine ( PPSV23 or Pneumovax23 ). However, these measures do not eliminate the risk, but only reduce it.

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine can help prevent attacks from 13 types of bacteria in children and adults. In fact, it is part of the childhood immunization schedule. People with weakened immune systems, regardless of their age, should also receive doses of this vaccine.

The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine can protect against up to 23 types of bacteria, but it is not recommended for children. It is usually given to adults over 65 who have already received the other type of vaccine.

Precautions:

• In some special cases, the pneumonia vaccine is contraindicated and should be avoided. These include people who are allergic to the vaccine or its components, pregnant women, and patients with a severe cold or flu.
• On the other hand, both vaccines can produce side effects such as: redness and pain at the injection site, muscle pain, moderate fever, and the common cold.

2. Prevent pneumonia: avoid tobacco

Excessive tobacco consumption is one of the main causes of chronic diseases of the respiratory system. Because of this, patients who smoke have a high risk of developing pneumonia. So, in the case of respiratory infections, it is essential to stay away from cigarettes.

3. Wash your hands at all times

One of the factors that influence the onset of respiratory tract infections is not washing your hands properly. Although not visible to the naked eye, many types of viruses and bacteria accumulate on the surface of the hands and can lead to serious infections.

To prevent pneumonia, it is therefore essential to wash your hands several times a day, preferably with warm water and an antibacterial soap. Be sure to do this, especially before and after using the toilet, before eating or having any contact with your mouth.

4. Prevent pneumonia: avoid contact with sick people

As we have already mentioned, pneumonia is not contagious per se, but the diseases that promote it are. That is why, when family members or friends are sick, it is essential to take certain precautionary measures. To avoid it, it is essential to use masks and gloves or simply to avoid being near the person.

5. Sleep well to prevent pneumonia

Sleeping well is essential for the treatment of all diseases that are caused by a weakened immune system. During the rest period, the mechanisms that are essential to fight viruses and bacteria are activated.

So, to prevent pneumonia, it is essential to take enough time to rest, especially if the respiratory system is infected. Do you have trouble sleeping? Try the following:

• Meditate shortly before going to bed.
• Adjust the room you are resting in.
• Drink an infusion with sedative properties (such as valerian).
• Reading or listening to relaxing music

6. Prevent pneumonia: maintain a healthy diet

Nutrition is essential for maintaining a strong immune system. Consumption of foods rich in vitamins A, B, C and E, as well as minerals such as potassium, iron and calcium, improves the response of the body’s defense mechanisms and therefore accelerates the healing of infections..

If you have respiratory disease and want to prevent pneumonia, make sure you include the following foods in your diet:

• Citrus
• Berries or red fruits
• Pears and apples
• Bananas
• Green vegetables
• Carrots
• Tomatoes
• Fatty fish
• Lean meats
• Dried fruits and seeds
• Vegetables
• Whole grains

Remember that pneumonia is a very serious complication of respiratory infections. So if you experience its symptoms, see your doctor. The sooner you are treated, the better the prognosis.