Dr. Njoroge Tonny, a General Physician, sheds light on the critical differences and similarities between asthma and pneumonia in both children and adults.

According to him, “One is an infection, while the other is an allergic reaction.” He emphasizes that distinguishing between these two conditions is essential for effective treatment.

Pneumonia: An Infection, Not Just a Cold

Pneumonia, Dr. Tonny explains, is an infection of the lungs, not merely a result of exposure to cold weather.

“No matter how many sweaters you put on your child, cold is just a trigger. Pneumonia is an infection,” he says. Pneumonia typically presents with symptoms such as: cough, chest pain, fatigue, and increased body temperature (fever)

Dr. Tonny warns against relying on over-the-counter medications, stating, “We have no good treatment for pneumonia over the counter, and some people don’t know what they’re doing.”

Instead, he urges individuals who suspect they have pneumonia to visit the nearest hospital for a proper examination and diagnosis.

Testing and Diagnosis

For diagnosing pneumonia, Dr. Tonny recommends a series of tests: the SRP and ESR tests, along with a chest X-ray. He clarifies that a haemogram cannot confirm pneumonia. “Pneumonia can be confused with TB, and it can be either hospital-acquired or community-acquired,” he notes.

The severity of pneumonia determines the course of treatment. Dr. Tonny advises, “If you have the symptoms, visit a doctor, not a chemist.” He also cautions that not all coughs are due to pneumonia. If a cough recurs, it could indicate something more serious. In such cases, he advises carrying out a chest X-ray to rule out other conditions.

Asthma: A Heterogeneous Condition

Asthma, on the other hand, is an allergic reaction and can vary greatly in its severity and presentation. Dr. Tonny points out that, “Asthma is heterogeneous; it is not the same for everyone.”

Common symptoms of asthma include: dry cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

He notes that many people with asthma are misdiagnosed. Family history and allergies to certain things can also contribute to the development of asthma. According to Dr. Tonny, if you are asthmatic, you need two types of inhalers: a controller and a regulator.

Dangers and Mismanagement

Dr. Tonny highlights that both pneumonia and asthma can present similar danger signs in both children and adults, though they are more dangerous in children. “Mothers are more keen on children than fathers,” he observes, pointing to the critical role of caregivers in early detection.

Unfortunately, he points out that there is widespread mismanagement of these conditions in many cases he has handled. H also commended the role of SHA in supporting the payment for necessary tests.

Final Advice

The doctor underscores the importance of getting a proper medical evaluation. “Dry cough and wheezing can be either pneumonia, asthma, or bronchitis,” he says.

He advises anyone with these symptoms to visit a hospital to confirm the diagnosis with a doctor, helping to prevent disease progression, complications, and even death.