Pneumonia is considered as infection of lungs due to various organisms; most commonly caused by Streptococcal pneumoniae. Patients present with productive cough, high grade fever and signs of systemic infection. Please rule out associated cardiac pathology if patient complains of chest pain (especially patients at high risk of cardiac pathology).
Medications:
- Tab. Azimax 500 (Azithromycin 500 mg) once a day for 5 days
- In patients with comorbidities – Tab. Moxikind CV 625 (Amoxicillin 500 mg, Clavulanate 125 mg) thrice a day for 10 days AND
Cap. Microdox-LBX (Doxycycline 100 mg, Lactobacillus 5 billion spores) 1 capsule twice a day for 10 days. - Tab. Dolo 650 (Paracetamol 650 mg) 1 tablet 4 times a day for 3 days.
- Syrup Rapitus (Levodropropizine 30 mg/5ml) – 10 ml at bed time.
General advice:
- Oxygen supplements as needed
- Advice bed rest till symptoms improve
- Ensure adequate hydration and dietary intake
Investigations:
- Complete blood count – to rule out sepsis
- Chest X ray – to identify lung consolidation and its severity. Follow up chest X ray after 4-6 weeks to confirm resolution of pneumonia.
- Sputum test – for culture and antibiotic sensitivity
- Pulmonary function test – to evaluate respiratory function
Referrals:
Consider referral to respiratory physician if patient fails to respond to treatment or presents with additional complications.