Contents
Treating Pneumococcal Pneumonia: From Hospital to Home
Published: May 19, 2024
Treating pneumococcal pneumonia requires a well-planned strategy. The goal is to knock out the infection and help you recover as quickly as possible.
Starting Strong in the Hospital
Most people with pneumococcal pneumonia start treatment in the hospital. You'll typically receive antibiotics through an IV (intravenous line). This allows the medication to get into your system quickly and start fighting the infection. The most common antibiotic used is called ceftriaxone. You may also receive oxygen if your levels are low and other supportive care as needed.
Transitioning to Home Care
As you start to improve, your doctor will switch you from IV to oral antibiotics. This usually happens after a few days. The exact antibiotic depends on the specific bacteria causing your infection and how severe it is. You'll continue taking these at home for several more days. It's crucial to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you're feeling better.
Additional Treatments
Some patients may receive additional treatments. For severe cases, doctors might add a second antibiotic called a macrolide. This can help reduce inflammation in your lungs. If you develop complications like fluid around your lungs (called pleural effusion), you might need a procedure to drain it. Your doctor will monitor you closely for any signs of complications.
Recovery and Follow-up
Recovery from pneumococcal pneumonia can take time. Most people start feeling better within a week, but it may take a month or more to feel back to normal. Your doctor will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress. They may order another chest X-ray to make sure your lungs are clearing up properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 5-7 days, but can be longer for severe cases.
Possible side effects include diarrhea and nausea; discuss concerns with your doctor.
Your doctor will advise based on your recovery; usually after fever is gone.
Alternative antibiotics are available for those with allergies.
Yes, but vaccination can help prevent future infections.
The Road to Recovery
With proper treatment and care, most people recover fully from pneumococcal pneumonia.
References
- Mandell LA, et al. Infectious Diseases Society of America/American Thoracic Society Consensus Guidelines on the Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Adults. Clin Infect Dis 2007; 44:S27-72.
- Musher DM, Thorner AR. Community-Acquired Pneumonia. N Engl J Med 2014; 371:1619-1628.
- File TM Jr. Community-acquired pneumonia. Lancet 2003; 362:1991-2001.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?