Pneumonia is sometimes misdiagnosed as GERD

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with GERD, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Pneumonia.

Treatment for pneumonia depends on the cause of the infection. Bacterial pneumonia is treated by antibiotics while viral pneumonia is treated with medications to alleviate symptoms. After the infection resolve, it might take a while for the symptoms to resolve, and the body and energy levels are back to normal. Diagnosis is by a blood test to check for infection markers. A chest x-ray or CT scan can locate the infection in the lungs and assess size/damage. A sputum test can also be ordered.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, sweating and shaking chills, chest pain when breathing or coughing, confusion, changes in mental awareness, dry or productive cough, lower than normal body temperature, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

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