Pneumonia is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the lungs. This inflammation is typically caused by an infection, bacteria or a virus. If not treated in a timely manner, pneumonia can cause long-term lung damage and even turn fatal. Treatment by a doctor is aimed at reducing the severity of symptoms but there are things that can be done at home to complement your treatment.
Rest
Take time to rest. It is important to take time off from work and school. Many people return to their routine as soon as they begin to feel better. However, in reality they may not have fully recovered. According to the Mayo Clinic, pneumonia can recur quickly so getting ample rest is important to support a full recovery.
Remove Mucus
Mucus produced by the body in response to a bacteria or virus often forms in the lungs as a result of pneumonia. Patients must cough up the mucus to help eliminate the bacteria. In addition, pneumonia patients may develop a cough or hear a "rattling" noise in their chest. Removing the mucus helps to clear up these symptoms.
Drink Water
Drink ample water. It is generally recommended to drink eight 8-oz. glasses per day to support a healthy hydration level. When recovering from pneumonia, patients should try to drink between eight to 10 8-oz. glasses at minimum. Drinking water prevents dehydration and loosens mucus, making it easier to cough it up.
Take Medications
The University of Maryland Medical Center advises taking aspirin or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to reduce a fever caused by pneumonia. If pneumonia is caused by bacteria, a physician may prescribe antibiotics. It is important for patients to take the full prescribed dose according to the physician's instructions, states the Mayo Clinic. Some patients may cease taking medications once it appears that symptoms improve. However, initial administrations of medication reduce the severity of symptoms; continued use helps to eliminate them.
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