How does my doctor know I have pneumonia?
Your doctor will diagnose pneumonia based on your medical history and the results from a physical exam. He or she may also need to do some tests, such as a chest X-ray or a blood test. A chest X-ray can show your doctor if you have pneumonia and how widespread the infection is. Blood and mucus tests can help your doctor tell whether bacteria, a virus or a fungal organism is causing your pneumonia.
This information was developed as part of an educational program made possible through support from Wyeth Vaccines.
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 02/11
Created: 03/09