After Diane Keaton’s death from pneumonia, what to know about the respiratory virus
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Diane Keaton’s death on Saturday has prompted reminders of the risks of pneumonia.
The iconic actress, director and producer was 79 years old when she succumbed to the respiratory infection in California.
Keaton’s family confirmed the cause of his death. to People magazine On Wednesday. News Digital has reached out to its representative for comment.
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What is pneumonia?
The Cleveland Clinic defines pneumonia as an infection in the lungs. caused by bacteriaviruses or fungi.
Diane Keaton’s death at the age of 79 has prompted reminders of the risks of pneumonia. (Getty Images)
This can cause the lung tissue to swell and create a buildup of fluid or pus in the lungs.
Dr. Marc Siegel, clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and senior medical analyst for News, previously said the risk of pneumonia depends on the underlying disease. health conditions of the patient and the strength of the person’s immune system.
Bacterial versus viral pneumonia
Most cases of community-acquired pneumonia are bacterial or viral.
Bacterial pneumonia is typically more severe than viral pneumonia, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
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It can be caused by an infection with the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae, also called pneumococcal disease.
Other bacteria that can cause the respiratory condition include Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Legionella (Legionnaires’ disease), according to the source above.
Keaton’s family confirmed his cause of death on Wednesday. (Raymond Hall/GC Images)
“Pneumococcus is a leading cause of pneumonia; it can be fatal,” Siegel said. “Invasive pneumococcal disease can have a mortality rate of up to 20% in adults.”
The risk of bacterial pneumonia increases with age and chronic diseases, the doctor added.
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Viral pneumonia can sometimes be caused by viruses including the flu, the common cold, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to the Cleveland Clinic.
This type of pneumonia usually gets better on its own.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, sometimes viral pneumonia can be caused by viruses including the flu, the common cold, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). (iStock)
In less common cases, some fungi (mold) or protozoa can cause pneumonia.
“The biggest concern is that it could spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis, which is definitely life-threatening,” Siegel warned.
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Atypical pneumonias are caused by mycoplasmas, legionella and types of chlamydia (not STDs) and whooping cough, the doctor added.
Treatment and prevention
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovery, especially in at-risk patients, Siegel said.
High-risk groups include the very young, very old, immunocompromised, people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and people who smoke.
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For people over age 50, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the pneumococcal vaccine.
“The effective version, known as Prevnar, can work against 20 different strains,” Siegel added.
Melissa Rudy is a senior health editor and member of the lifestyle team at News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@News.com.