How to treat Pneumonia?

Posted by editor07 on Thursday 02 Apr 2009

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Pneumonia is the inflammation of the lungs and is perhaps one of the most infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. Pneumonia is of two types- Lobar pneumonia and Bronco pneumonia. Both tend to run into each other and are treated in a similar manner. Pneumonia can affect one or both lungs, but the latter type is more serious and is often referred to as double pneumonia.

Symptoms of pneumonia:
Most cases of pneumonia initially begin with cold and cough. The cough produces yellow or greenish sputum or phlegm which may later become brownish or rusty in color. This is followed by chills, shivering, high fever, sharp chest pain, difficulty in breathing, blueness of the skin, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, body ache and mood swings. Some patients suffering from pneumonia may also cough out blood, have frequent headaches and fatigue.

Causes of pneumonia:
Pneumonia is caused by various types of microorganisms such as streptococcus, staphylococcus and pneunococcus bacteria. Viruses, fungal infection and worms can also cause pneumonia. Other factors that cause this disease include inhaling dust and irritants or noxious gases such as ammonia, nitrogen dioxide or cadmium that cause severe lung toxicity.

Treatment for pneumonia:
Garlic is considered to be one of the best natural remedies for treating pneumonia. If garlic is given to patients suffering from this disease, it helps bring down the temperature and pulse rate and normalizes respiration within 48 hours. Garlic is an irritant and rubefacient that helps provide immediate relief to patients. You can apply garlic juice topically on the chest of the patient for best results.

Sesame seeds are also quite helpful in the treatment of pneumonia. Take sesame seeds and mix them with 1 tbsp linseed, a pinch of common salt and 1 tsp honey. Add to boiling water and simmer on low flame for about 10 minutes. Drinking this infusion helps remove phlegm and sputum from the bronchial tubes.

The use of fenugreek seeds has also proved beneficial during pneumonia. During the early stages of acute pneumonia, fenugreek seeds help increase perspiration, reduce toxicity and reduce the span of fever. Take 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds and add them to a cup of boiling water. Allow them to steep for about 10 minutes. Add ½ tsp honey to this and give to the patient. Drinking 4 cups of this tea is beneficial for combating pneumonia. While following this treatment no other food should be taken.