Best Methods for Treating Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an inflammation that affects the alveoli in the lungs and can occur due to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Pneumonia typically develops when microbes enter the upper respiratory system and reach the lungs, causing inflammation in the tissues and filling the alveoli with fluid or pus. This inflammation leads to difficulty breathing and affects the lungs' ability to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream.

Diagnosing Pneumonia

Before beginning pneumonia treatment, the medical team at Al Abdali Hospital conducts the necessary tests to accurately diagnose the condition and identify the underlying infection type. This begins with reviewing your medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination, including listening to your lungs using a stethoscope to check for any abnormal sounds.

If the doctor suspects pneumonia, they may recommend several tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the infection's type, including:

  • Blood tests: These help confirm the presence of an infection and sometimes identify its type.
  • Chest X-ray: Used to diagnose pneumonia, assess the extent of the infection, and locate its position in the lungs, although it does not reveal the specific pathogen.
  • Oxygen saturation measurement: This test measures the level of oxygen in the blood, as pneumonia can affect the lungs' ability to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream.
  • Sputum test: A sample of sputum is taken after deep coughing and analyzed to pinpoint the cause of the infection more precisely.
  • Bronchoscopy: In some cases, a bronchoscope, a thin tube with a light at the end, is used to examine the lungs and may also take samples of tissue or fluid for laboratory testing.

If the patient is over 65 years old, the doctor may request additional tests, such as:

  • CT scan: This provides a more detailed image of the lungs if the condition is not improving as expected.
  • Pleural fluid analysis: This test involves taking a sample from the pleural space (the area between the lungs and chest wall) using a needle for analysis to identify the cause of pneumonia.

Best Treatment Methods for Pneumonia

At Al Abdali Hospital, we place a special focus on treating pneumonia cases, with our specialized medical team providing high-quality care using the latest diagnostic and treatment methods.

Each case is handled individually to ensure the most appropriate treatment based on the patient's condition. We monitor patient progress closely and provide effective treatment that helps speed recovery and reduce complications.

The best treatment methods for pneumonia include:

  • Antibiotics: Used to treat bacterial pneumonia, and may also be prescribed if there is a concurrent bacterial infection alongside a viral infection.
  • Antifungal medications: Prescribed for pneumonia caused by fungal infections.
  • Antiviral medications: Viral pneumonia usually doesn’t require specific medication, but the doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs such as Oseltamivir or Zanamivir to reduce the duration and severity of the illness.
  • Oxygen therapy: If the patient is not getting enough oxygen, supplemental oxygen may be provided through a tube in the nose or a face mask.
  • Fluid drainage: If there is excessive fluid between the lungs and chest wall, the healthcare provider may perform a drainage procedure using a catheter or surgery.

How to Manage Pneumonia Symptoms?

Some medications and home remedies can help alleviate symptoms, such as:

  • Pain relievers and antipyretics: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and fever.
  • Cough suppressants: It is important to consult a doctor before taking a cough suppressant, as coughing is crucial for clearing the lungs.
  • Breathing treatments and exercises: The doctor may prescribe these to help loosen mucus and improve breathing.
  • Humidifier use: A humidifier or steam shower may help ease breathing.
  • Drinking fluids: Staying hydrated helps relieve symptoms and maintain moisture in the body.

When is Hospitalization Necessary?

A patient may need to be hospitalized in the following situations:

  • If the patient is over 65 years old.
  • If the respiratory rate is more than 30 breaths per minute.
  • Need help with breathing.
  • Having a very low body temperature.
  • Having a severe drop in blood pressure.
  • Feeling confused about time, people, or places.
  • Worsening kidney function.
  • If heart rate is less than 50 or more than 100 beats per minute.

Can Pneumonia Resolve on Its Own?

Viral pneumonia often resolves on its own, but it is important to always follow the healthcare provider's guidance to treat symptoms and prevent severe complications.

 

References: 

  1. Pneumonia. (2024, October 2). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4471-pneumonia#management-and-treatment
  2. Pneumonia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pneumonia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354210