Antiobiotics

Due to the large number of possible bacteria that can lead to pneumonia, there is a wide range of possible antibiotics available. In the case of simple pneumonia, which has not occurred in connection with a hospital stay, a so-called calculated antibiotic therapy is usually first carried out, i.e. an antibiotic is prescribed which kills the bacteria that are in most cases responsible for the disease. If the symptoms do not improve after two to three days, another antibiotic is used if necessary. In some cases, it may be useful to examine coughing up mucus for the pathogen and then to use an appropriately effective antibiotic.

Antibiotics for pneumonia
Household remedies for pneumonia

How long does pneumonia last?

Normally a pneumonia heals within 4 weeks. However, since it is a serious disease, even young people may experience reduced performance for months. After a very severe pneumonia has been suffered, there may also be permanent functional limitations. Carryover of pneumonia

Prophylaxis

Pneuomonie prophylaxis in medicine and care refers to a concept for the prevention of complications in people in need of care. For example, the risk of pneumonia is increased if the patient is bedridden due to illness. Therefore, an essential measure of pneumonia prophylaxis is early mobilization and/or physiotherapy, for example after an operation.

If necessary, the patient can be instructed in specific respiratory gymnastics. In case of pain that hinders breathing, this is treated with painkillers. A sufficient supply of fluids through drinking and possibly infusions help to liquefy mucus and make it possible to cough it up.

In the long run, a good general condition with a good immune system is the best prevention of a serious infection such as pneumonia. This is best achieved through sufficient exercise, a balanced diet and abstaining from smoking. Furthermore, vaccination can be given against the most common pathogen of pneumonia.

Vaccination

It is possible to be vaccinated against the most common pathogen of pneumonia (pneumococcus). The vaccination can thus protect against infection by these bacteria. However, the vaccination does not protect against pneumonia caused by other bacteria or viruses.

The vaccination is particularly recommended for people who are at particular risk of pneumonia/pneumonia due to a weaker immune system. These include elderly people over 60, diabetics and people with certain illnesses such as asthma, cardiac insufficiency after tuberculosis. Vaccinations are carried out by the family doctor, for example.

In contrast to the flu vaccination, which must be renewed annually, a single vaccination is sufficient for the vaccination against pneumococcus. Refreshments may be necessary for certain diseases. Children should also receive the vaccination as part of the basic immunization. As after many other vaccinations, mild flu-like symptoms may occur for one or two days due to a normal reaction of the immune system to the vaccine.