Pneumonia is an unpleasant condition that normally takes several weeks to clear from the body’s system. The biggest challenge in dealing with pneumonia recovery is the temptation of doing things too quickly. Although you may feel like your strength has been restored, it’s advisable to wait until the disease disappears completely.
Doctors recommend keeping a watchful eye over your health until all the symptoms have vanished. After this, give yourself a week, just to be sure, before resuming normal lifestyle. Here is more of what should be done:
Regular Check-ups
Many pneumonia patients are tempted to start living as they were before as soon as the symptoms begin to improve. However, you must be sure that all the signs have vanished prior to doing so. This is mainly because of the fact that pneumonia recovery demands regular checkups for successful recuperation. Secondary infections will be identified and treated promptly this way.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Pneumonia affects the immune system greatly. For it to recover, the body will require sufficient sleep. Resist the temptation of staying awake for long hours at night even when you’re feeling stronger. In addition to this, take a few minutes to nap during the day so that the antibiotics can take full effect.
Take Medication As Instructed
Make sure that the medication you’ve been prescribed by the doctor is taken as instructed. Antibiotics in particular should be taken at the exact same times on a daily basis until condition improves. An alarm clock will come in handy in helping you to succeed at pneumonia recovery. You’ll be able to take medication at the correct times.
Breath Fresh / Clean Air
When the lungs are irritated, pneumonia is consequently aggravated. To avoid such an occurrence, ensure that you inhale only clean air. You’ll be able to reduce coughing fits by a substantial percentage when you avoid breathing contaminated air. Install an air filtration system if you live in an area that is highly polluted. Wear a mask when outside to prevent dust and other pollutants from entering your lungs.
Keep Humidity High
Normal people avoid humid areas as much as they can. Nevertheless, those at the final stages of pneumonia recovery ought to consider buying a humidifier. The device acts quite effectively when it comes to reducing coughing and soothing the chest. Another great method of enjoying humid air is by taking steamy showers.
Use Expectorants
Contrary to normal perception, the use of suppressants for the coughs is ill-advised. This is because the resulting effect will make the pneumonia last for a longer period than expected. Instead, use expectorants to dispel the germs through the coughs. Consult your doctor before you start using this type of medication.
Stay Away from Sick People
As part of the pneumonia recovery strategy, you’ll be required to keep distance from sick people. Patients of pneumonia can contract other infections at a very high rate. For instance, a patient with common cold can really aggravate the condition of someone recovering from pneumonia. Be warned, other complications may arise as a result.