Pneumonia

In most cases of pneumonia in young, otherwise healthy people with strong Reference immune systems Opens New Window, treatment can be done at home. Antibiotics, rest, fluids, and home care are all that you need in order to recover. But people who are having trouble breathing or have other lung problems may need more treatment. Sometimes you may need oxygen or medicines you breathe using an Reference inhaler Opens New Window or Reference nebulizer Opens New Window to help shortness of breath and wheezing symptoms.

If home treatment does not help, if symptoms get worse, or if signs of Reference complications of pneumonia develop, you may have to go to the hospital. Hospital treatment for pneumonia may include:

• Antibiotics given directly into the bloodstream. A small needle is inserted into a vein (Reference intravenous, or IV Opens New Window) to deliver the medicine.
• Fluids given through a vein (IV). They are given if you cannot drink liquids because of shortness of breath or weakness.
• Respiratory therapy, to remove mucus from the lungs. This therapy may include deep breathing exercises, Reference postural drainage Opens New Window, Reference spirometry Opens New Window, and chest physiotherapy, which involves striking the chest with a cupped hand or applying a vibrating device to the chest to loosen mucus. Chest physiotherapy is not needed in most cases. But it may be helpful for people who have other lung conditions, such as Reference bronchiectasis Opens New Window.

  Reference Reference Breathing Exercises: How to Use a Manual Incentive Spirometer

• Reference Oxygen therapy. You may need oxygen therapy if your doctor thinks that the cells of your body are not getting enough oxygen. Oxygen can be given through a nasal tube or face mask. For children, oxygen is often given using a tent that fits over the crib.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.