Article: Keeping a strong immune system is important for not only preventing pneumonia, but also avoiding other common illnesses and fatigue. People with weak immune systems, children younger than two years old, adults sixty-five years or older, and people with chronic health conditions are at a higher than normal risk of contracting Pneumonia. Make sure to take extra measures to maintain a healthy immune system if you are at a higher risk.  Eating too much sugar, not maintaining a healthy weight, stress, and lack of sleep can affect your immune system hampering its ability to fight off infection. Eat healthy foods with plenty of nutrients and vitamins such as fruits and vegetables. If you know that you lack certain vitamins, such as vitamin D, which is largely garnered from exposure to UV light, take the right supplements to balance what your body doesn’t produce enough of on its own. A weak immune system can be a result of lack of exercise and being overweight. If you have a high BMI, your immune system may not be working at full capacity. Because Pneumonia can be contracted easily if you are already experiencing other illnesses, avoid people and places where you might encounter more germs. Stay away from groceries stores, public transportation, and even crowded waiting rooms. Because your hands interact with so many objects and people each day, keeping them clean is a great way to prevent Pneumonia.  Carry hand sanitizer with you, as well, and use it frequently. Every time you use the door to a public bathroom and after every time you use a grocery cart are good places to start. Think about all the things you touch on a daily basis, and what parts of your own body your hands are coming into contact with, from your eyes to your mouth. Keep them clean to keep yourself healthy. . One of the easiest, and also possibly hardest ways to boost your immune system and prevent Pneumonia is to quit smoking. Because Pneumonia is a lung infection, smoking, which makes your lungs more susceptible to infections, will make it harder for you to prevent or even battle the ailment. . Many doctors recommend this since it can protect you from many types of infections.  A healthy lifestyle has just as much to do with what you do as what you abstain from doing. This means avoiding the wrong kinds of fats in food, too much alcohol, or avoiding stressful situations. Fats that are found in plant-based foods and oils are better for you than saturated fats often found in red meat and dairy products like butter. The average adult needs between 7 - 8 hours of sleep a night. Take measures to ensure you’re getting enough sleep.  Sleep in the right position. You’ll get the best rest when you sleep in a position that keeps your neck and head straight. Also avoid sleeping on your stomach because it causes your head to lie at an awkward angle. Reduce light and sound an hour before going to bed. Give your body time to wind down by not using any electronics. If you feel restless, try reading in bed. Not getting enough sleep can also make it harder to fight off infections. Once you know your enemy, you take measures to prevent them from attacking you. By knowing what to look out for, you can further prevent getting Pneumonia.  Cough which produces green, yellow, or blood-like mucus, phlegm, or sputum. Fever, which may be mild or high. Shaking chills. Shortness of breath when climbing stairs. Sweating and clammy skin. Headache. Loss of appetite, low energy, and fatigue. Sharp, sudden pain in the middle of the chest.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Keep your immune system in good condition. Stay away from other sick people. Wash your hands frequently. Stop Smoking Live a healthy lifestyle Get enough sleep. Know the symptoms of pneumonia.