HEALTHY LIVING Dealing with pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that mainly plagues its victims during chilly weather. It is an inflammatory disorder that affects the lungs and airways. In its early stages, it is often mistaken for cold. However, the respiratory infection is not one to be taken lightly. Dr. Muhammad Umar of Bwari General Hospital said that relying solely on remedies at home will not be as effective as medication prescribed by a doctor. But before the drugs kick in, using these remedies can go a long way in giving temporary relief to the symptoms you may be suffering. The most common symptoms include fatigue and weakness, pain, fever, coughing and shortness of breath. Sometimes it can also come with a lingering and persistent headache.

Combating these symptoms at home can help ease the stress of what the pneumonia is putting you through. These relatively easy steps can effectively do that for you, together with the medication prescribed.

Drinking plenty of fluids will help in keeping you dehydrated. Fruits juices, water and teas can go a long way in doing so.

Also, pain relievers such as Ibuprofen and Paracetamol can reduce the fever and headache as well when taken in the correct doses.

Taking hot showers, or submerging yourself in steam will loosen up your airways to enable you breathe better. Turn off the air conditioner and keep warm as well. Ensure you do not expose yourself to cold.