As the colder months edge ever nearer, we see a higher risk of respiratory illnesses, and one of the most serious to be aware of is pneumonia. Understanding how to keep your lungs healthy can help prevent complications and keep you breathing well throughout the winter season.

So we’d like to share our top tips on how to keep your lungs functioning at their best.

But first…

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, causing them to fill with fluid or mucus. This buildup makes it difficult to breathe, reducing the lungs’ ability to effectively exchange oxygen. The most common cause is a bacterial infection, specifically streptococcus pneumoniae, but viruses and fungi can also lead to pneumonia.

Infections like flu, which are more common in winter, can increase your risk of developing pneumonia. It’s important to understand that bacterial and viral pneumonia can be contagious, but it’s not as easily spread as the common cold or flu, since most immune systems are capable of dealing with the infection before it takes hold.

How pneumonia impacts the UK – the numbers

Pneumonia is a significant public health issue, especially during the colder months. Each year in the UK:

  • 5 – 11 per 1,000 people are diagnosed with pneumonia
  • Pneumonia is the third leading cause of death from lung disease, after lung cancer and COPD
  • 220,000 diagnoses and approximately 29,000 death
  • More people are admitted to hospital due to pneumonia than for any other lung disease

Who is at risk of getting pneumonia?

While anyone can get pneumonia, certain groups are more vulnerable:

  • Babies and young children
  • People over 65
  • Those with long-term heart, lung, or kidney diseases, or diabetes
  • Individuals undergoing cancer treatment
  • Smokers and heavy alcohol consumers
  • People taking immune-suppressing drugs

As the UK’s population ages (it’s estimated that 23% will be over 65 by 2035, as opposed to 17% in 2010), the risk of pneumonia is also expected to rise. Being proactive about lung health is crucial, especially for those in high-risk groups.

Recognising the symptoms

Pneumonia symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly. They may include:

  • A persistent cough, often producing yellow, green, or blood-stained mucus
  • Difficulty breathing, even at rest
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • High fever, sweating, and shivering
  • Chest pain that worsens when breathing or coughing
  • Fatigue and loss of appetite

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. A doctor may diagnose pneumonia through a physical exam, chest x-rays, blood tests, or a sputum sample.

How to treat pneumonia

Treating pneumonia depends on the severity of the illness and the patient’s overall health. Options may include:

  • Antibiotics (for bacterial pneumonia)
  • Chest physiotherapy
  • Pain relief and rest
  • In more severe cases, IV antibiotics and hospitalisation

Air Physiotherapy offers specialised chest physiotherapy treatments that can help keep your lungs healthy by clearing mucus, improve lung function, and speed up recovery. Our team of respiratory physiotherapists is trained to provide targeted therapies that help keep your lungs healthy, promote better breathing and strengthen your respiratory system, all of which are crucial for pneumonia recovery and prevention.

 Vaccination for protection

One of the best ways to protect yourself against pneumonia is through vaccination. The pneumococcal vaccine helps your immune system build antibodies against the bacteria responsible for pneumonia. It’s especially recommended for:

  • Babies (three doses before the age of 2)
  • Adults over 65 (a single dose)
  • Individuals with long-term health conditions (may require a one-off dose or regular vaccinations every 5 years)

If you sit within one of these groups, don’t delay—speak to your GP about getting vaccinated. Prevention is key to reducing the likelihood of developing pneumonia this winter.

Air Physiotherapy – how we can support your respiratory health

At Air Physiotherapy, we offer a specialist respiratory physiotherapy service and provide tailored physiotherapy treatments to help maintain strong respiratory function. Whether you’re recovering from pneumonia or want to strengthen your lungs to prevent illness, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

We offer:

  • Pulmonary rehabilitation tailored support for those with chronic lung conditions.
  • Breathing exercises to enhance lung capacity and function.
  • Airway clearance exercises to prevent sputum build up, clear the airways, and manage symptoms of respiratory illness.

This winter, be proactive about your lung health. With expert guidance from Air Physiotherapy, you can breathe easier and stay protected against pneumonia and other respiratory threats. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your lung health.

To book an appointment at Air Physiotherapy click here or call 0207 971 1464.

For more personalised advice, reach out to Air Physiotherapy—your lungs will thank you.