Pneumonia is a common, yet serious, lung infection that can make it difficult and painful to breathe. While treatment is available, the disease can be life threatening. According to the Center for Disease Control, about 50,000 Americans die from pneumonia each year. In addition, adults aged 65 and older have a high risk of complications, leading to widespread problems in other areas of the body, and often requiring an extended phase of treatment and recovery.

If you’ve been diagnosed with pneumonia, spending your convalescence period in a safe and nurturing skilled nursing facility can help to ensure a successful recovery and prevent an unforeseen relapse. At Bella Vista Health Center, we can provide you with a comprehensive treatment program in a caring and comfortable environment, allowing you the necessary time and space to focus on getting healthy.

 How to Treat Pneumonia

Treatment for pneumonia varies based on the cause of your infection, the severity of your symptoms, and the overall state of your health. While many people who suffer from pneumonia are given a course of antibiotics, this is generally only effective for those who have been diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia. Patients who have viral pneumonia may be given antiviral medications, or may simply need to wait for the virus to run its course.

To help ease breathing difficulties and alleviate additional symptoms, other treatments include:

• Respiratory Therapy

Bronchodilators, chest physiotherapy, and oxygen therapy can all be used to help open the airways and improve the flow of oxygen throughout your body.

• Medication

Your doctor may prescribe medications to control your fever, to ease violent coughs, or to reduce pain and inflammation in your chest.

• A Healthy Diet

Eating nutritious, balanced meals is key to regaining your strength and encouraging proper cell growth.

• Rest

Perhaps the most important element of recovery from pneumonia, resting gives your body a chance to concentrate on healing. Without proper downtime, you run the risk of relapsing, or developing dangerous complications.

Potential Complications of Pneumonia

Complications from pneumonia can affect other areas of the body besides the lungs. Symptoms of heart disease may develop, including heart attack or heart failure. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis or pleural effusion. And lower concentrations of oxygen in the brain can lead to mental confusion, especially in older adults.

Many of these complications tend to arise when you try to rush your recovery. That’s why following your treatment plan and taking adequate time to rest is so important. Enlisting the help of a 5-star skilled nursing facility like Bella Vista Health Center can improve your chances of a successful recovery, returning you to functional independence as soon as possible.

Post Pneumonia Care at Bella Vista Health Center

Bella Vista Health Center offers a wide variety of rehabilitation services for patients who have been diagnosed with pneumonia. Treatment plans are customized based on your individual symptoms and overall health conditions, but most will involve some combination of the following services:

• Medication Administration

Doctors will continuously monitor your condition and update your medication and dosage as necessary, eliminating the need to schedule additional doctor appointments or make inconvenient trips to the pharmacy.

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Respiratory Therapy

Bella Vista has a staff of on-call respiratory therapists who can help you to recover your lung function and maintain healthy levels of oxygen in your body, while teaching you breathing strategies to better manage your symptoms.

• Nutritional Counseling and Health Education

There’s no need to worry about food shopping, cooking, or cleaning while you stay with us, since our registered dieticians craft meal plans for each patient to ensure they’re receiving nutritious and delicious meals.

• A Caring and Supportive Environment

We understand that dealing with the symptoms of pneumonia can be both physically and emotionally challenging. With an attentive 24/7 support staff, we’re here to listen to your concerns and help raise your spirits. At Bella Vista Health Center, we care for the mind, body, and soul.

For more information about the pneumonia treatment and recovery programs available at Bella Vista Health Center, call us at (619) 644-1000.