pneumonia at night

Overview

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. These air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough, fever, chills, and trouble breathing. When this happens at night, symptoms can feel worse and disrupt sleep.

Yes, pneumonia is common, especially during colder months. It affects millions of people each year worldwide.

Anyone can get pneumonia, but it is more severe in young children (under 2), older adults (over 65), and people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Cough that may bring up green, yellow, or bloody mucus
• Fever, sweating, and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Sharp chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Fatigue and low energy

Symptoms in children

• Fast or noisy breathing
• Flaring of the nostrils
• Grunting sounds while breathing
• Fussiness or not feeding well
• Chest retractions (skin pulling in between ribs)

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or changes in mental awareness
• Dizziness or falls
• Low body temperature (instead of fever)
• Milder cough but more severe weakness

Causes

Main causes

• Bacteria – the most common cause in adults (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae)
• Viruses – such as flu, RSV, or the virus that causes COVID-19
• Fungi – rare, usually affecting people with weakened immune systems

Risk factors

• Being younger than 2 or older than 65
• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
• Chronic lung disease (e.g., asthma, COPD)
• A weakened immune system due to illness or medications
• Recent hospitalization or stay in a nursing home

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any difficulty breathing or chest pain
• High fever that does not come down
• Confusion or drowsiness
• Coughing up blood or rust-colored mucus

Book a routine appointment if:

• A cough with fever lasting more than a few days
• Feeling worse after a cold or flu
• Not being able to keep fluids down

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms and listen to your lungs with a stethoscope. They may order tests to confirm pneumonia and find the cause.

Tests that may be done

• Chest X-ray to look for infection in the lungs
• Blood tests to check for infection and oxygen levels
• Pulse oximetry (a clip on your finger) to measure oxygen in your blood
• Sometimes a sputum test (mucus sample) to identify the germ

What to expect at your appointment

If pneumonia is mild, you will likely be treated at home with rest, fluids, and medicine. Most people feel better within a week or two, but a full recovery may take longer.

Treatment

Pneumonia is treatable. The goal is to cure the infection, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. Most people recover completely with proper care and rest.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest and sleep, especially at night
• Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated
• Use a humidifier or take a steamy shower to ease cough
• Take over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers as directed by your doctor or pharmacist
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke

Medical treatments

If the infection is bacterial, a doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics. If viral, antiviral medications may be used. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy or hospital care. Always take the full course of any prescribed medicine and follow your doctor's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for pneumonia. In some rare cases where fluid (empyema) builds up around the lungs, a procedure to drain it may be necessary.

Living with this condition

Take it slow. Give your body time to heal. Avoid strenuous activity until you feel stronger. It may take several weeks to get back to your normal routine.

Lifestyle tips

• Do not smoke or vape
• Wash hands often to avoid spreading or catching germs
• Get enough sleep every night
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Diet and exercise

Eat nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to help your immune system. Gentle walks as you feel able can help regain strength, but rest is most important while you are still coughing or tired.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being sick with pneumonia can be stressful and frightening. You may feel anxious, depressed, or frustrated during recovery. Talk to your doctor or a trusted person about how you feel. You are not alone.

Prevention

Many cases of pneumonia can be prevented with vaccines, good hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle. Avoiding smoking is one of the most important steps.

Vaccines

Vaccines are available for pneumonia caused by certain bacteria (pneumococcal vaccine), as well as for the flu and COVID-19. These vaccines reduce your risk of getting pneumonia. Ask your doctor if they are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for pneumonia. However, if you are at high risk, your doctor may check your lungs during visits.

Complications

If left untreated

• Lung abscess (a pocket of pus in the lung)
• Sepsis (a severe infection spreading through the blood)
• Respiratory failure (lungs unable to get enough oxygen)
• Pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs)

Long-term outlook

With early and proper treatment, most people make a full recovery from pneumonia. It can take a few weeks to months to feel completely back to normal. Even though pneumonia is serious, the vast majority of patients get better. Following your treatment plan and taking care of yourself gives you the best chance.

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