Pneumonia is a common lung infection that can result in serious complications if prompt treatment is not sought. This infection results in inflammation along with redness within the lungs and those suffering from this condition suffer from breathing difficulties. Pneumonia may be caused due to a variety of bacteria, fungi and viruses and it may also be caused due to some foreign materials gaining entry into the lungs. Pneumonia may also occur after a particularly severe bout of influenza. In some cases this condition can affect a single lung, while in other cases this condition may affect both lungs and it is known as double pneumonia.

While pneumonia can affect almost anybody, it tends to be observed among young children or elderly individuals or those suffering from chronic illnesses. Each year more than 60000 deaths are caused due to pneumonia in United States alone. Those suffering from double pneumonia tend to experience several respiratory problems or related symptoms. These symptoms include chest pain and problems in breathing or shortness of breath. Patients may also experience persistent cough along with fever that may last for several days.

Patients of double pneumonia also suffer from excessive sweating and chills, the chills include considerable shaking. Other symptoms that may be experienced include loss of appetite, fatigue, body ache etc. The cough may be accompanied with thick mucus. Patients should avoid taking cough medicines as these medicines tend to suppress the cough. Suppression of cough can in turn adversely affect the ability of the body to fight this infection.

The diagnosis of double pneumonia can be done based on physical examination of the patient along with medical history and laboratory tests. Using a stethoscope the physician may listen to abnormal sounds, rumbling or wheezing sounds within the chest that may point towards lung inflammation. Detailed blood count may also be taken to check the white blood cell levels and to identify the pathogen responsible for causing the infection. Testing the phlegm sample can also help in determining the cause and the diagnosis can be confirmed through a chest X-ray or computed tomography scan.

Those suffering from double pneumonia, should avoid smoking as well as alcohol. Using throat lozenges and drinking warm liquids can help in getting relief from the coughing. Vaporizers can be used to increase the moisture within the room and this can help in loosening the chest secretions. Complete rest is critically important to ensure complete recovery. While resting, it is also advisable to change the position every few hours as this helps in mobilizing the secretions. Since breathing becomes labored or problematic in pneumonia, it is advisable to sleep while keeping the head elevated.

The medicines for double pneumonia can be taken based on the identification of the pathogen responsible for causing the condition. Other medicines that can be prescribed include acetaminophen for the fever and non steroidal anti inflammatory medicines. The treatment advised for the condition should be religiously followed. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids and to take complete rest so as to ensure recovery.