10 Life Saving Tips If You Contract Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs which has a number of different causes and symptoms. It can lead to complications and severe illness. Those at high risk are people with underlying diseases like asthma, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. People who are generally healthy can come down with pneumonia by breathing in germs and are even more susceptible if they have a cold or the flu at the same time. Care is undertaken at home or in the hospital depending on the severity.

Avoid Reinfection

Maintaining general health and wellness is important to avoid any further illness, especially colds and flu. It is vital to follow a healthy and nutritious diet full of fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes, and lean protein to booth the immune system. Professionals also recommend losing weight if necessary, participating in regular aerobic exercise and a strength training regime, getting enough rest, practicing proper hygiene and hand-washing, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and quitting smoking.

Monitor Symptoms

When resting at home, be aware of any additional symptoms. Experiencing any of the following require a trip to the doctor or the emergency room: A fever of 104 degrees F or higher, labored breathing, a pulse rate higher than normal or more than 125 beats per minute, low blood pressure or a rapid decline in blood pressure, dizziness, bluish tone to the skin. These symptoms can signal a serious infection and need medical attention.