What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Commonly reported symptoms of infections that can resemble pneumonia. This list is for general information and not for making a diagnosis.

• Fire
• Cough (often starting dry, may become productive)
• Change in sputum color (yellow, green, or occasionally bloody)
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• Chest pain, especially worse with deep breaths or coughing

The following findings may require urgent evaluation. If you have any of these, go to the emergency department or contact emergency services without delay.

• Severe or rapidly worsening shortness of breath
• High fever that does not come down
• Coughing up blood
• Severe, constant chest pain in the center of the chest
• Confusion, fainting, or bluish lips/face (may indicate low oxygen)

For an initial evaluation you can contact your primary care physician or Internal Medicine. If symptoms are primarily respiratory or significant, you may be referred to Chest Diseases (Pulmonology). For severe or emergency symptoms, Emergency Medicine is the first point of care.

• Emergency symptoms → Emergency Medicine
• Respiratory symptoms or suspected pneumonia → Chest Diseases (Pulmonology)
• Initial assessment and referral → Primary care or Internal Medicine

During an examination the clinician will take a history and perform a physical exam; depending on findings they may request imaging or laboratory tests. The exact steps depend on the clinician and clinical findings.

• Useful information to bring: duration of symptoms, cough and sputum details, presence of fire, and history of chronic lung disease
• The clinician may check vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, oxygen level)
• Imaging (chest X-ray) or lab tests may be ordered if needed

These are not personalized medical instructions; they are general steps that may help before or while awaiting evaluation.

• Keep a record of symptoms: when they started and how they have changed
• Note fevers, cough, sputum and any shortness of breath
• Know general supportive measures: rest, adequate fluids, and avoiding smoke exposure
• If symptoms worsen or red flags appear, seek medical care immediately