Pneumonia is just one of the complications of the herpes simplex virus. The herpes virus weakens the immune system and makes the body more vulnerable to things like pneumonia. As with most cases of pneumonia, children and the elderly who carry the herpes virus are at an increased risk.
Other causes of pneumonia
Pneumonia is a lung infection with symptoms such as a dry or painful cough, a shortage or rapidness of breath, fever, and chills.
Herpes is among the more rare causes of pneumonia, however it is entirely possible to have both herpes and pneumonia under completely unrelated circumstances.A host of other viruses as well as bacteria and fungi can also lead to pneumonia. Influenza A and B (the flu) is the most common cause of pneumonia while Chickenpox and measles can also lead to cases of pneumonia.
Other complications of herpes
In addition to pneumonia, herpes can also lead to things like:
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Liver damage and hepatitis
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Meningitis
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Bladder problems that can warrant the use of a catheter
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Pregnancy complications including blindness, brain damage, and even death of the baby
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Blindness
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Destruction of the adrenal glands
People who carry the herpes virus are also more susceptible to developing HIV. And each year, herpes accounts for over 2,000 cases of encephalitis, a brain disease with a 70% fatality rate.
Preventing pneumonia
If you have a weakened immune system due to having the herpes virus, you should take extra precautions to avoid contracting pneumonia.
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If you smoke regularly, do everything you can to stop completely
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Avoid close contact with other sick people
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Wash your hands often
If you are experiencing any symptoms of pneumonia or any other complications of herpes, visit your local FastMed today.
About FastMed
FastMed Urgent Care owns and operates nearly 200 centers in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas that provide a broad range of acute/episodic and preventive healthcare services 365 days a year. FastMed also provides workers’ compensation and other occupational health services at all its centers, and family and sports medicine services at select locations. FastMed has successfully treated more than six million patients and is the only independent urgent care operator in North Carolina, Arizona and Texas to be awarded The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for quality, safety and infection control in ambulatory healthcare. For more information about locations, services, hours of operation, insurance and prices, visit www.fastmed.com.