• An infection in the blood or lungs.

• A serious injury to the chest.

• A serious injury that causes low blood pressure.

• A major surgery.

• Breathing in harmful chemicals, smoke, or water.

• Blood transfusions.

• Breathing in vomit (aspiration).

• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

• A fast or irregular heartbeat.

• Crackles in the lungs.

• Skin, lips, or fingernails that look blue (cyanosis).

• Confusion.

• Tiredness or loss of energy.

• Chest pain, particularly while taking a breath.

• Coughing.

• Restlessness or anxiety.

• Fever. This is usually present if there is an underlying infection, such as pneumonia.

• Medical history, including your symptoms.

• Physical examination.

• A test that measures the percentage of oxygen in your blood (pulse oximetry). This is done with a sensor that is placed on your finger, toe, or earlobe.

• Blood tests.

• Chest X-rays or CT scans to look for fluid in the lungs.

• Taking a sample of your phlegm (sputum) to test for infection.

• Heart tests, such as an echocardiogram or electrocardiogram. These tests check for blood flow and the proper functioning of the heart.

• Taking a sample of your urine to test for infection or kidney problems.

• Bronchoscopy. During this test, a thin, flexible tube with a light is passed into the mouth or nose, down the windpipe, and into the lungs.

• Oxygen therapy.

• Non-invasive ventilation. A device such as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bi-level positive airway pressure (BIPAP) machine may be used to help you breathe. The device gives you oxygen and pressure through a mask or helmet.

• Positioning you to lie on your stomach (prone position).

• A breathing machine (ventilator) may be used to help you breathe. This device gives oxygen and pressure through a tube that is put through your mouth into the windpipe (trachea) to help you breathe.

  • If this treatment is needed longer term, a tracheostomy may be placed. A tracheostomy is a breathing tube put through your neck directly into the trachea.

• Fluid and medicine is given through an IV tube.

• Medicines may be given to:

  • Help you relax (sedatives).

  • Treat blood pressure.

  • Treat infection (antibiotics).

  • Prevent blood clots (anticoagulants).

  • Help get rid of excess fluid (diuretics).

• In severe cases, extracorporeal life support (ECLS) may be used. This treatment temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs, supplying oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. ECLS gives the lungs a chance to rest and recover.

Medicines

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as instructed by your healthcare provider.

• If you were prescribed antibiotics, take them as instructed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop using the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.

• If you are taking blood thinners:

  • Talk with your healthcare provider before you take any medicines that contain aspirin or NSAIDs. These medicines increase your risk for dangerous bleeding.

  • Take your medicine exactly as instructed, at the same time every day.

  • Avoid activities that could cause injury or bruising, and follow instructions about how to prevent falls.

  • Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a card that lists what medicines you take.

Lifestyle

• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes and chewing tobacco. If you need help quitting, ask your healthcare provider.

• Do not drink alcohol if your healthcare provider tells you not to drink.

• Rest and return to your normal activities as instructed by your healthcare provider. Ask your healthcare provider what activities are safe for you.

• It may take a while for you to get back to your normal activities and routine.

  • Ask friends and family to help you if daily activities make you tired.

  • Attend any physical or pulmonary rehabilitation as instructed by your healthcare provider. This can help with muscle weakness and shortness of breath.

  • You may feel depressed, anxious or have trouble with memory and concentration. Talk with your healthcare provider about ways to help you feel better.

General instructions

• Wear compression stockings as instructed by your healthcare provider. These stockings help to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling in your legs.

• Keep all follow-up appointments as instructed by your healthcare provider. This is important.