If pneumonia goes untreated, what serious condition can a patient develop?

When pneumonia is left untreated, it can lead to respiratory distress, which is a serious complication. Pneumonia causes inflammation and infection in the lungs, leading to fluid accumulation and reduced oxygen exchange capability. This can result in decreased oxygen saturation in the blood and difficulty breathing, escalating to respiratory distress, a condition characterized by inadequate oxygen supply to meet the body's needs.

In severe cases, untreated pneumonia may complicate into conditions such as hypoxemia or respiratory failure, requiring immediate medical intervention. The risk of respiratory distress emphasizes the importance of prompt recognition and treatment of pneumonia to maintain effective respiratory function and oxygenation in patients.