[michellemichellemichelle]

I have recently suffered from severe pneumonia, I ended up on life support in intensive care. I am 41 and consider myself to be of good health. The hospital were very surprised at me have pnuemonia and said it was very unusual for someone of my age. I am still very much in the dark as to how I became so ill with this and how I might have caught it. I also am worried I may catch pnuemonia again. Can anyone give me any information/advise on this

[inthebox]

A common cause, but by no means the only one, is strep pneumococcus. There is a vaccination for this. Viruses , like influenza , can also cause pneumonia. A vaccination may also help.

You say you are in good health but the following put you at risk [if any apply ]

Smoking
Alcohol use
Hiv / aids
Cysic fibrosis
Diabetes
[ prior ] removal of the spleen
Steroids, chemotherapy suppress the immune system.
To name a few



Usually one case is just that, but if you get pneumonia again you need to have your immunity evaluated by your doctor.

[ISneezeFunny]

There's a good chance that you may have caught the cold/flu and while your immune system was at a weak point, you caught pneumonia.

This past flu season was one of the worst, so there's a good chance your immune system was a bit weak during that time.

Really, there's no "good" way to prevent any sickness except the usual: get your rest, get your vitamins, exercise moderately, and eat well. Wash your hands.

Hope you're feeling better

[pompano]

My entire family ended up with broncitis which turned into pneumonia during the holidays.It was like someone may cough up half a lung because the coughing is constant and hard to cure.I thought all was well,but we caught the flu 4 weeks later.It has been a very sickly winter to say the least.I'm ready to get past all the viruses and germs.