Pneumonia

[GMcC2]

I really need some advice. I am female 46, never smoked, have asthma & take steroid inhaler daily. In the last 12 months I have caught pneumonia twice (never had before) & had to stay in hospital. First time I had classic symptoms & it resolved with large dose of Levaquin as Doxy didn't work. Second time was 6 weeks ago - no symptoms apart from couple of instances of fever & terrible sudden pain breathing in. Didn't feel hugely ill and had no cough at all. Just had my 6 week X-ray follow-up & told still shadows on my lung. I've to get another X-ray in 4 weeks. Have some slight pain occasionally in my back (high up) & lots of catarrh, but not too bad. Worried it's not resolving properly & what will happen if no improvement in few weeks. Could it be scarring? Anyone had a similar experience?

[Shancock]

If it happens again insist on a CT scan that will show exactly what's happening with the lungs. Since I had it 3 years ago I've had frequent bronchitis infections. After lots of tests they decided it was actually as a result of sinus infections and acid reflux. But there are lots of reasons why we get reoccurring infections and yes scarring could be one.

Take the medication and rest as that's the best cure. Hoepfully the next X Ray will be clear. But if you get any future chest problems ask for a referral.

[Sandy-]

I agree with Shancock and feel you should get a high resolution CT scan. I had two bouts of pneumonia about 15 years ago, then started with asthma but found in 2007 my condition worsened with frequent chest infections and lots of mucous. I was referred by my GP for the HR CT scan which showed I had bronchiectasis due to whooping cough at 6 months old. I also have reflux from a hiatus hernia and this can worsen bronchiectasis if not well controlled. I have perennial rhinitis and also get sinus problems and these are connected. Hopefully this will clear but you should get a referral if things don’t improve. x

[Hidden]

Oh you have had a long twelve months..maybe things didn’t clear properly the first time..but there have been some nasty viruses this winter..have you had the pneumo jab? I strongly recommend it.

As Shancock and Sandy indicated after the next xray if there still is a shadow you should ask for a CT scan for a more definite diagnosis.

Recovery is slow, pneumonia although we mention it often in the forum isn’t anodyne. In the meantime If you wish you can check the BLF website and/or phone the helpline.

Take good care xx

[shadow4me]

Yes pneumonia can leave scarring but its best to try and get a scan xx

[Donkster]

Hi I’ve had pneumonia also have steroid inhaler, pneumonia has left me with scaring but it’s got better with time so I’m told from ct scans. I find walking really good but short of breath sometimes keeping active is key if I sit for to long (computer) then I can feel worse for it. I hope this is helpful ?

[Dubba61 in reply to Donkster]

Exactly like me. But we must do what we can eh 😊🌻✌️

[hopetorun]

It takes a long time to get over phnumonia. Dont think in weeks rather months. The pain usually goes quickley when infection is clear. Dont push youself too hard just take your time. Hope you are better soon x

[GMcC2]

Thanks for your replies. Well after a trip to A&E today I've got another lot of antibiotics to try to kick the infection. Hoping this does the trick! Fingers crossed.