6 symptoms of pneumonia as Anthony Head dies aged 72

Head passed away due to complications from pneumonia

Head was best known for his roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Ted Lasso, Merlin, and Little Britain.

The successful actor found international fame as Rupert Giles in the teen sci-fi hit Buffy in the late 1990s.

Head then went on to have a recurring role in sketch show Little Britain, and portrayed King Uther Pendragon in the BBC's Merlin. He also played former football club owner Rupert Mannion in Ted Lasso.

In a statement released by Head's family, his daughters Emily and Daisy Head said: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our extraordinary father".

"He passed away peacefully of complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family.

"It has been, and forever will be, an honour and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed firsthand the impact both he and his work have had on so many."

Pneumonia is responsible for a significant number of deaths in the UK each year, particularly among older adults and people with underlying health conditions. It is a serious lung infection that can become life-threatening in severe cases, as noted by the NHS.

Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs. These air sacs can fill with fluid or pus, making it harder to breathe and reducing the body’s ability to take in oxygen.

According to the NHS, symptoms can develop suddenly over 24 to 48 hours or come on more gradually over several days.

Common Symptoms of Pneumonia

The NHS identifies the following six symptoms as typical signs of pneumonia:

• Cough – which may produce yellow or green mucus (phlegm)
• Shortness of breath – difficulty breathing or breathing more quickly than usual
• Fever – often accompanied by sweating and shivering
• Chest pain – especially when breathing deeply or coughing
• Fatigue – extreme tiredness and weakness
• Loss of appetite

Additional Symptoms

According to the NHS, some people may also experience:

• Confusion – particularly in older adults
• General aches and pains
• Feeling generally unwell or weak

However, it's important to note that symptoms can vary depending on age, overall health, and the cause of the infection.

While many cases can be mild and recover without complications, the NHS notes that pneumonia can become severe and requires urgent medical attention in higher-risk groups such as young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.