Recovering From Pneumonia: Your Home Guide

Take all your antibiotic

• Take every dose on time.
• Finish all of it, even when you feel better.
• Do not save or share antibiotics.

Clear your lungs

• Drink plenty of fluids, unless your provider limits them.
• Use your breathing device (incentive spirometer) 10 times every hour while awake.
• Sit up. Breathe out. Seal your lips on the mouthpiece. Breathe in slowly and deeply. Hold for 3 to 5 seconds, then breathe out.
• Then take a deep breath and cough. Hug a pillow to your chest when you cough.

Rest and build up slowly

• Rest often. Add a little more activity each day.
• Feeling tired and coughing for several weeks is common.
• Ask your provider when to go back to work or school.

Control fever and aches

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as directed.
• Do not take more than the label allows in 24 hours. Never take more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours, or the lower limit your provider gives you.
• Many cold medicines also contain acetaminophen. Read labels.

Protect your lungs

• Stop smoking.
• Get a flu shot every year. Ask about pneumonia, COVID-19, and RSV shots.
• Wash your hands often. Keep your follow-up visit.