People with bacterial and viral infections impacting the lungs are at risk of developing pneumonia. This respiratory condition causes one or both lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid and can sometimes lead to serious health effects.
Bacterial lung infections are the most common – and most serious – form of pneumonia. On the other hand, viral pneumonia causes less serious symptoms and can often be treated with rest, home remedies, and over-the-counter medications.
When treating pneumonia, the type of infection you experience will dictate the type of medication you receive:
Some bouts of pneumonia can be quite complex and disruptive to one’s health. In this case, the administration of IV fluids and oxygen therapy may be required. If there is an excess of fluid in the lungs, medical staff may also perform a drainage procedure.
Viral pneumonia is not associated with serious health effects, but symptoms can be quite bothersome until they eventually resolve on their own. In this case, the following methods can provide relief:
If your symptoms are worsening or you do not feel any better after about two weeks, talk with your doctor about other treatments.