Pneumonia Diagnosis

Pneumonia diagnosis involves several steps. A healthcare provider begins with a physical exam, listening to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds. They often ask about symptoms like cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Diagnostic tests, such as chest X-rays and blood tests, help confirm the presence of infection in the lungs. Sometimes, sputum tests are used to identify the specific germ causing the pneumonia. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which may include antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the type of pneumonia.