What should you know about effects of pneumonia?

Inflamed air sacs may fill with fluid or inflammatory material. This can cause cough, fever, chills, chest discomfort and breathlessness. Some people cough up phlegm. The illness may leave marked tiredness and reduced stamina even after the fever improves.

Pneumonia can be caused by different infections, including viruses and bacteria. COVID-19 and influenza can sometimes lead to pneumonia. Older adults, babies and people with long-term lung, heart or immune conditions may become more unwell and need closer monitoring.

Follow the treatment plan, rest, drink enough fluid if you can, and take medicines only as directed. If antibiotics are prescribed for a bacterial infection, complete the course unless a clinician changes it. Avoid smoking and ask when normal activity can restart.

Arrange follow-up if breathlessness, fever, cough or weakness is not improving, or if symptoms return after initial improvement. A clinician may listen to your chest, measure oxygen and decide whether further assessment is needed.

Get emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, severe chest pain, or inability to stay awake. Seek prompt care for worsening breathlessness, persistent high fever, dehydration, or a rapidly deteriorating child or older adult. Serious infection can occasionally spread through the body and cause sepsis.

Ask what may have caused the infection, how to monitor breathing at home, when you should return to work or exercise, and which warning signs require immediate help.