Question

Pneumonia is?

Option 1: wheezing or loud breathing associated with airway obstruction.
Option 2: shortness of breath
Option 3: inflammation of the alveoli which interferes with gas exchange.
Option 4: rapid swelling of the airway that can block breathing

Answer 1

Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs affecting the alveoli, leading to fluid accumulation that hinders gas exchange, presenting with symptoms like coughing and difficulty breathing. It is distinct from asthma or bronchitis and is frequently caused by infections, treated with antibiotics in the case of bacterial origin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pneumonia is a respiratory illness where the alveoli, small sacs within the lungs, become inflamed and filled with fluid, making it difficult for gas exchange to occur effectively. Common symptoms include cough, chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. Bacterial pneumonia, which is one prevalent form of the illness, is often treated with antibiotics.

It is important to differentiate pneumonia from other respiratory conditions. For instance, asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchi, and emphysema is characterized by damage to the alveoli, typically caused by smoking. While all these conditions affect breathing, pneumonia specifically involves the alveoli and is most commonly triggered by infectious pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and sometimes fungi.