10 Pneumonia Symptoms to Be Aware Of

3. A Cough

Another classic symptom of pneumonia is a cough, which may or may not be dry (not producing phlegm).

In most cases, coughing is the earliest sign of the condition and can last for several days after a course of medication is complete. Sometimes, where phlegm is present, the individual may cough up yellowish or green mucus.

In severe cases, people may even cough up blood, which indicates an urgent need to seek medical assistance. If a cough is mild or moderate, sufferers should avoid cough medicines, which can decrease the mucus removal that coughing promotes.