Definition: Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs usually caused by bacteria, virus or chemical irritation. There are more than 50 different causes of pneumonia. Symptoms include chills, high fever, pain in the chest especially when trying to take a deep breath, cough, purulent (greenish) or bloody sputum.
Pronunciation: nu-mo'-ne-a
Also Known As: Bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia, aspiration pneumonia
Alternate Spellings: pneumoniae pneumonias
Common Misspellings: pneumona neumonia pheumonia
Examples: Pneumonia is a common side effect of the flu virus, especially in older adults.