Pneumonia is an infection of the lung. It is caused by bacteria or viruses or bacteria-like germs. Usually, it does NOT spread from person to person.
To cure the infection:
- If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, start them right away. Do NOT delay getting them. Antibiotics take several doses to start to work.
- If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, take them until the medicine is all gone. Do NOT stop early because you feel better.
- Drink at least one glass of water every hour. This helps thin the sputum so that you can cough it up.
- Take several deep breaths, then cough several times each day
- Use a cool (not hot) vaporizer.
To help with fever or pain:
- Take Tylenol® (acetaminophen) per the box instructions, OR take Advil® (ibuprofen) per the box instructions, OR take the medication your doctor has prescribed for pain.
How much should you be doing?
- Rest in bed until your temperature is normal (37 degrees C or 98.6 degrees F).
- Start your normal activities slowly.
- Most people with pneumonia feel tired. It can take as long a 6 weeks to get back to your normal self.
What should you eat?
- Eat a proper balanced diet even if you are not hungry. Try soups and juices if you are having difficulty with solid foods. No alcohol.
Go to your doctor if …
- your fever continues
- your chest pain does not get better
- you ahve vomiting or diarrhea
- you are coughing up bloody sputum
- you have any problem with your medicines
Visit the OUCC or the Emergency Department if …
- you have a lot of trouble breathing, or your skin color, fingernail or lip color is darker or blue
- you continue to have a fever, chills and feel worse
- you become confused, have a severe headache or neck stiffness
- you are becoming sicker