What could seem like only a very persistent cold could actually be pneumonia, which is more likely to occur after a cold or from flu. This video from Mayo Clinic explains a little more. Symptoms of pneumonia can include fatigue, fever, chills, shortness of breath, and a cough that is usually accompanied by mucus. It can result from a bacterial or viral microbe that gets into the lungs. These symptoms can affect people in a variety of ways, some patients may have a more mild 'walking' form of pneumonia, but it can also be fatal in people with weakened immune systems.
Bacterial and viral infections are not treated in the same way; bacteria can be killed with antibiotics while viruses are not. Milder forms of pneumonia can be simply treated at home with rest and over the counter medications, while more serious conditions require a visit to the doctor. There are also some medications available for viral pneumonia infections.
