Viral pneumonia medical therapy

Pneumonia Main Page
Viral pneumonia Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Viral pneumonia from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Chest X Ray
CT
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Viral pneumonia medical therapy On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Viral pneumonia medical therapy All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Viral pneumonia medical therapy
CDC on Viral pneumonia medical therapy
Viral pneumonia medical therapy in the news
Blogs on Viral pneumonia medical therapy
Directions to Hospitals Treating Viral pneumonia
Risk calculators and risk factors for Viral pneumonia medical therapy

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Medical Therapy

Antibiotics do not treat viral pneumonia. Medication only works against influenza pneumonia. These medications are called antivirals. Treatment may also involve:

• Increased fluids
• Oxygen
• Use of humidified air

A hospital stay may be necessary to prevent dehydration and to help with breathing if the infection is serious. You are more likely to be admitted to the hospital if you:

• Are older than 65 years or a young child
• Are unable to care for yourself at home, or are unable to eat or drink
• Have another serious medical problem, such as a heart or kidney problem
• Have been taking antibiotics at home and are not getting better
• Have severe symptoms

However, many people can be treated at home. You can take these steps at home:

• Control your fever with aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen), or acetaminophen. DO NOT give aspirin to children.
• Do not take cough medicines without first talking to your doctor. Cough medicines may make it harder for your body to cough up the extra sputum.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help loosen secretions and bring up phlegm.
• Get a lot of rest. Have someone else do household chores.