Pneumonia is an inflammatory lung disease caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. This disease can become severe, particularly in vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

If it is left untreated or not managed properly, pneumonia can lead to serious complications that may result in death. So, how does this happen? Find out in the explanation below.

What is Pneumonia and What Causes It?

Pneumonia is an infection that leads to inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. This inflammation can cause the air sacs to fill with fluid or pus, leading to symptoms such as a cough with phlegm, fever, shortness of breath, and chest pain.

The infections responsible for lung inflammation can be caused by different types of pathogens, including:

Bacteria

Bacterial pneumonia is often more severe than other types of pneumonia. One of the most common bacterial causes is Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is also known as pneumococcal disease.

Virus

Viral infections are another leading cause of pneumonia. One of the viral infections frequently associated with pneumonia is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Others, such as influenza and Covid-19, can also trigger pneumonia.

Fungi

Fungal pneumonia is usually caused by fungi such as Cryptococcus, Pneumocystis jirovecii, and Coccidioides. This type of pneumonia is more likely to affect individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, patients with immunosuppressive therapy, or individuals who have recently undergone organ transplants.

How Can Pneumonia Cause Death?

Several factors contribute to the severity of pneumonia and its potential to be fatal, including:

Oxygen Exchange Disruption

Pneumonia leads to inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs, interfering with the body’s ability to exchange oxygen properly. As a result, oxygen levels in the blood may drop drastically, a condition known as hypoxemia.

If this problem persists without adequate treatment, oxygen deprivation can cause permanent damage to vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys, ultimately leading to death.

Sepsis and Septic Shock

When pneumonia is not treated promptly, bacteria or viruses can spread to other parts of the body, including the bloodstream, resulting in sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition in which the body overreacts to an infection.

In severe cases, sepsis can progress to septic shock, which is marked by a dangerous drop in blood pressure that is difficult to control. Both sepsis and septic shock can cause multiple organ failure, which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and Respiratory Failure

Severe pneumonia can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and respiratory failure. This occurs when the lungs become so inflamed that they can no longer supply adequate oxygen to the body. Individuals with ARDS often require oxygen support or mechanical ventilation.

Cardiovascular Complications

Pneumonia can also put excessive strain on the heart. Prolonged low oxygen levels in the blood can trigger arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), heart attacks, or acute heart failure. These complications significantly increase the risk of death, especially in those with severe pneumonia.

Pneumonia is a serious infection that can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly. Seeking medical care as soon as symptoms appear is crucial to preventing severe outcomes.

You can also use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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