Seek urgent medical care if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, bluish lips, confusion, severe weakness, or symptoms worsening quickly
Contact a clinician promptly for diagnosis and treatment planning, especially for children, older adults, pregnant people, immunocompromised individuals, or those with chronic heart/lung disease
Take antibiotics only if prescribed for bacterial pneumonia; complete the full course as directed
If viral pneumonia is suspected, follow clinician guidance; supportive care is often the main treatment
Use supplemental oxygen if prescribed or if oxygen levels are low
Get hospitalized care if you have severe symptoms, low oxygen, dehydration, inability to take oral medications, or high-risk conditions
Take antipyretics/analgesics as directed for fever and pain (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen, if appropriate for you)
Drink fluids and rest; maintain hydration
Use inhalers/nebulizers if prescribed for wheezing or airway disease
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
Follow respiratory hygiene: cover coughs, wash hands frequently
Monitor symptoms: fever trend, breathing rate, oxygen saturation (if you have a pulse oximeter), and ability to eat/drink
Seek immediate reassessment if fever persists or worsens after starting treatment, breathing worsens, new chest pain occurs, or confusion develops
Attend follow-up appointments as advised; ask about repeat imaging or testing if symptoms don’t improve
Prevent recurrence with vaccination (pneumococcal, influenza, and others as recommended) and good hand hygiene