Pneumonia is an infection in one or both lung. This infection can be caused by bacteria, fungi or viruses. …show more content…
Dr. Ken R, Wells describes “The diagnosis of pneumonia is made by a combination of the patient 's history (including occupation, recent travel, and exposure to animals or sick people); a physical examination; and appropriate laboratory and imaging tests.” Many researchers state that a chest x-ray is the best test for diagnosing pneumonia. However, this test will not tell doctors what kind of germs are causing the pneumonia. Doctors will need to know when the symptoms started, whether the patient has been recently hospitalized, or has had a cold or flu, and similar …show more content…
First it is necessary to determine the type of pneumonia. Pneumonia caused by bacteria or mycoplasma is treated with a seven to ten day course of antibiotics. Pneumonia caused by viruses cannot be treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antiviral medications like rimantadine, which is used to treat some types of flu. Most patients can take care of themselves at home by taking prescribed medication and by getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids, and taking over the counter pain relievers to reduce fever, stomach ache, and headaches. It is important that the patient obtains plenty of rest and not go outside of the house, since the pneumonia disease may occur