Recovering from pneumonia at home: what helps, and when to call

Coming home from the hospital after pneumonia, many people are surprised by how tired they still feel. Recovery takes longer than the infection. This note covers what helps the lungs heal at home, how long each part usually takes, and the signs that mean you should call right away.

Help the lungs clear

Take a few deep breaths two to three times an hour while you’re awake to help open the lungs.¹ Cough to clear mucus, and don’t take cough medicine to stop the cough unless your provider says to.¹ Breathing warm, moist air, from a humidifier or a warm wet washcloth held near the nose and mouth, helps loosen mucus.¹ Lying down, gently tapping the chest a few times a day can help too.¹

Fluids and rest

Drink plenty of fluids if your provider allows: about 6 to 10 cups a day of water, juice or weak tea.¹ Avoid alcohol.¹ Rest as much as you can, and nap during the day if nights are hard.¹

Finish the antibiotics

If you were prescribed antibiotics, take every dose until they’re gone, even after you feel better.¹ Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever or pain only if your provider says it’s safe.¹ Don’t smoke, and don’t let anyone smoke in your home.¹

How long recovery takes

The cough usually gets better over 7 to 14 days.¹ Sleep and appetite can take about a week to come back.¹ Energy often takes two weeks or more, so plan for help at home and time off if you work.¹

When to call

Call your provider, or 911 if it’s severe, if breathing gets harder, faster or shallow; if you have to lean forward to breathe; if you have chest pain when you breathe deeply; if you feel sleepy or confused; if the fever comes back; if you cough up dark mucus or blood; or if your fingertips or the skin around your nails turn blue.¹

Help at home

A home health nurse can check your breathing and oxygen, make sure the medicines are right, and teach breathing exercises. A therapist can help you get your strength back safely. Ask your doctor whether home health is right for you after pneumonia.