Cough and breathlessness after pneumonia

Sabrina2007 · Newbie Joined: 16 Mar 2007 Posts: 3

Hi! I had pneumonia in February this year, my x-rays were normal after treatment. But I still have a cough, breathlessness and occasionally chest pain. Anyone who had the same problem? What treatment did you get?
Any advice? thanks, Sabrina

Guest · Guest

Yes, I had a very severe case of pneumonia 12 years ago. I was in the hospital for a month and it took me a year to fully recover. I was coughing alot, had shortness of breath and chest pain. I was given some kind of steroids to help with the symptoms. I believe it turned into a form of bronchitis. I avoided cold drafts and any irritants that made the coughing worse. Mild exercises and breathing exercises and positive thinking helped. Also, staying away from starchy foods, wheat and sugar is a good idea. Good luck!

Guest · Guest

I had the same issues. I struggled to walk any distance and had constant chest pains from where I had been coughing so much afterwards. A few things that made a huge difference were:
1. Deep breathing excercises to get the lung capacity back... eg try swimming... start off with just a length at a time... try holding your breath for as long as you can for each length. (to start with it seems impossible and I'd suggest using a shallow pool in case you find it too strenuous... temp of the water is also an issue... get in and wait for a few mins before doing anything!)
2. Wrap up warm, try to stop the coughing cycle. Coughing causes pain, and pain can cause coughing... pain killers stop pain and therefore can stop coughing if it's a cycle!
3. Try not to breath in cold air as your lungs will be sensitive to the cold... build up resistance to temperature changes over time... it does get better just give it time.
4. If you get a chesty cough and it doesn't go after 7 days go to your gp... it could be a reoccurrence. Let your GP know you've had pneumonia and they will be thorough!

Best of luck!

SB

Cough and breathlessness after pneumonia

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