Pneumonia is an infection in your lungs that can make it hard to breathe. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. If you have pneumonia, you may feel tired, have a fever, and have chest pain when you cough or breathe. You might also have trouble breathing, and it might feel like you can’t catch your breath.
If you have pneumonia, it’s important to take care of yourself. Here are some things you can do for pneumonia management:
- Get plenty of rest. Your body needs time to heal, and resting will help you recover faster.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated can help loosen mucus in your lungs and make it easier to breathe.
- Take your medicine. If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics or other medications, be sure to take them, even if you start feeling better. It’s important to finish your medication as prescribed, to make sure the infection is completely gone.
- Use a humidifier or take a steamy shower. This can help relieve coughing and loosen mucus in your lungs.
Pneumonia can be serious, especially in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. If you think you might have pneumonia, or if you’re not getting better after a few days, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you get the care you need to feel better. Remember, the key to pneumonia management is taking care of yourself and getting the help you need to stay healthy.