Is Your Pneumonia Caused by COVID-19 or Other Factors? This Test Can Tell

Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can be caused by a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 virus. It can have devastating consequences if left unchecked. Dr. Nilakshi Sabnis, a physician at Zen Multispecialty Hospital in Chembur, reported to have witnessed a surge in pneumonia cases in recent months. “I have seen 8 to 10 cases per week,” she reveals, “with the elderly above 60 years being the most vulnerable due to weaker immune systems and comorbidities.”

The concern extends beyond the immediate threat of pneumonia. Dr. Sabnis warns that even those who test negative after infection may still develop lung infections. “The virus will weaken the lungs, causing pneumonia,” she explains. “In the long run, this can lead to irreversible lung damage.”

Determining if your pneumonia is caused by COVID-19 is crucial for proper treatment and management. Fortunately, there is a test that can help differentiate between COVID-19-related pneumonia and pneumonia caused by other factors.

The key test according to scientists, for diagnosing Pneumonia is the Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test. This test detects the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, in respiratory samples such as nasal or throat swabs. A positive RT-PCR test confirms that the pneumonia is caused by a COVID-19 infection.

In addition to the RT-PCR test, healthcare providers may also order other diagnostic tests to aid in the diagnosis such as chest imaging and blood tests.

Chest X-rays or CT scans can help identify patterns of lung inflammation and damage that are characteristic of COVID-19 pneumonia, such as bilateral “ground-glass” opacities. While elevated levels of certain biomarkers, like C-reactive protein (CRP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), can indicate the presence of COVID-19 pneumonia.

By combining the results of these tests, healthcare providers can determine whether the pneumonia is caused by the COVID-19 virus or other factors, such as bacterial or viral infections.

Signs That You May Have COVID-19 Pneumonia

• Fever
• Fatigue and loss of appetite
• Cough, often with yellow or green phlegm
• Chest pain when breathing deeply or coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially if it comes on suddenly or worsens over a few days.

COVID-19 pneumonia often develops more gradually compared to other types of pneumonia. It can start with mild symptoms that worsen over several days. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring hospitalization, including: people over 65, especially over 85, Immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying conditions like lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, severe obesity, etc.

If you have COVID-19 and experience any of the following, seek emergency care immediately:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Bluish lips or face
• Confusion or inability to wake up

How to Prevent Pneumonia After COVID-19

Dr. Nilakshi advises that the best way to prevent COVID-19 pneumonia is to take care of your lungs by getting vaccinated, doing breathing exercises, eating a well-balanced diet, wearing a mask, staying away from sick people, maintaining social distancing, avoiding crowded places, and following cough etiquette. managing any underlying conditions, and continuing infection control measures like handwashing and distancing.

If you get COVID-19, closely monitor your symptoms, and don’t hesitate to seek medical care if you develop pneumonia.