What are the treatment options for pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation affecting the air sacs of the lungs. Bacteria, viruses and other causes can produce similar symptoms, so a clinician may consider your examination, breathing, medical history and overall condition before choosing treatment.

A Chest X-Ray may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms are significant or another lung problem needs checking. People with mild illness may recover at home, while those with low oxygen, dehydration, confusion or serious underlying conditions may need hospital monitoring.

When bacterial pneumonia is suspected, a clinician may prescribe antibiotics. Take them exactly as directed and report troublesome reactions; do not use leftover medicine or share a prescription. Antibiotic Treatment explains how these medicines are selected and used.

Supportive care can include rest, regular fluids if you can drink safely, and medicine for fever or discomfort when suitable for you. A hospital may provide oxygen, fluids through a vein, inhaled treatment or closer observation if breathing or hydration is affected.

Arrange follow-up if symptoms are not settling, return after improvement or leave you unusually breathless. Ask whether Pneumococcal Vaccination is appropriate as part of prevention, and read more about Pneumonia.

Seek urgent medical care for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, chest pain that is severe or worsening, coughing blood, or inability to keep fluids down. A child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with significant heart or lung disease may need assessment sooner when symptoms develop.

Ask what cause is suspected, whether a Chest X-Ray or other assessment is needed, how to take any antibiotic, which symptoms should prompt review, and when normal activity is reasonable. Mention your medicines, allergies, breathing history and any recent worsening.