What is the primary characteristic of Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is primarily characterized by the infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs, known as alveoli. This inflammation can fill the air sacs with fluid or pus, which leads to symptoms such as cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. The infection can be caused by various organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

In understanding pneumonia, it is important to focus on how this inflammation affects gas exchange in the lungs and leads to respiratory distress. The presence of fluid in the air sacs significantly impairs the lungs’ ability to oxygenate the blood, which is crucial for overall bodily functions. Hence, acknowledging the characteristic of pneumonia as an infection inflaming the air sacs highlights the critical pathophysiological processes involved in the disease.