Pneumonia is an acute infection of an infectious nature, affecting
lower respiratory tract. Sometimes pneumonia is called pneumonia.
For a long time it was believed that hospitalization with pneumonia is strictly mandatory. However, in reality, the need for placement in a hospital depends on the form of pneumonia and the general condition of the patient. Antibiotics are widely available today, so there is the opportunity to be treated on an outpatient basis. However, when identifying the first symptoms of pneumonia, it is necessary to visit a therapist as soon as possible, who will determine whether it is possible to be treated at home. The factors studied include not only indicators such as body temperature, but also the level of blood pressure, urea and protein in the blood, and respiratory rate. The age of the patient is also taken into account. Patients older than 60 years are most often referred to hospitalization, as they usually have more severe pneumonia.
As for the recommendations on choosing a hospital, it is better to give preference to trusted private clinics. This is due not only to the best level of service, but also to the elementary presence of doctors' responsibility for the patient. In a private hospital, a contract is concluded between the doctor and the patient, unlike the municipal hospital, where the responsibility of doctors is minimal. You can view the terms of paid hospitalization and get answers to any questions on this topic on the website .
What are the indications for hospitalization? First of all, this is a severe disease with the presence of symptoms such as:
- The presence of a purulent process,
- High level of intoxication
- Severe fever
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Dehydration
- Fainting
- The presence of concomitant diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency, alcoholism.
Hospitalization is also indicated if the patient lives alone and cannot serve himself during treatment.
Therapy of pneumonia involves strict adherence to bed rest until the body temperature normalizes and the period of general intoxication passes. After this, a transition to the half-bed mode is possible. It is shown abundant drinking (juices, vitamin infusions, decoctions of herbs, mineral water) and the intake of vitamins.
It is strictly forbidden to smoke and drink alcohol during the treatment period.
In severe cases, oxygen inhalation may be indicated. As a rule, the most dangerous period is the onset of pneumonia, and it is at this time that the risk of complications is highest.