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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
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