Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Introduction
Pneumonia is an infection of the tissue of the lungs. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection but can also be due to viruses or fungi. Pneumonia is very common, and 1 in 100 adults in the UK will develop this every year.
What are the Symptoms?
The most common symptoms of pneumonia include:
- Cough – this can be dry or productive of phlegm (mucus)
- Shortness of breath
- Fever and shivering
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Chest pain - which can be particularly noticeable when breathing in
These symptoms can be present in other lung conditions as well.
How is Pneumonia Diagnosed?
It is usually diagnosed after assessing symptoms, doing an examination, and by doing a chest x-ray. Blood tests and a phlegm sample may also be taken.
How is Pneumonia Treated?
Pneumonia is treated with antibiotics, rest and keeping hydrated. More severe pneumonia may require admission to hospital and sometimes intravenous antibiotics (given into a vein) are needed.
Am I Infectious?
Pneumonia is not usually passed between people so it is safe to be around others. However, you should avoid contact with people with a weakened immune system until you are feeling better.
Recovery – When Should I Expect to Feel Better?
1 week – Fever should have resolved
4 weeks – Chest pain and phlegm production should be reducing
6 weeks – Cough and breathlessness should be reducing
3 months – Most symptoms should be better but fatigue may persist
6 months – Most people will feel back to normal
How Can I Prevent It From Happening Again?
- Avoid smoking: Smoking increases your chances of getting pneumonia again as it damages the lining of your airways
- Practice good hygiene to avoid the spread of germs
- Avoid excess alcohol, which can weaken your immune system
- Get vaccinated: If you are in a high-risk group your GP should consider giving you one dose of the Pneumococcal vaccine (one type of pneumonia) and an annual flu vaccine
Do I Need any Follow- up Afterwards?
After discharge, you should eat well, keep hydrated and take light exercise, including doing deep breaths. If you feel that your symptoms are worsening or not improving as outlined above, it would be advisable to see your GP.
If you had an abnormal chest x-ray, the medical team may organise to repeat this after 6-8 weeks to check that it is better. The plan for this is normally noted in your ‘Discharge Summary’ letter.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Respiratory medicine service.
About this information
Service:
Respiratory medicine
Reference:
W/047
Approval date:
21 December 2023
Review date:
1 December 2026
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.