Pneumonia

[Quintessentialmom]

I took my 4 year old to the doctor today, and he was diagnosed with early pneumonia. They, of course, prescribed antibiotics. I wonder if anyone has had an effective experience with any other alternatives to healing pneumonia.

Thank you

[2lilsweetfoxes]

I haven't tried anything "alternative".  My 2 year old is just getting over pneumonia--she got rocephin shots the first three days and then has been on amoxycillin.  Her last dose is tomorrow.  Considering that people do die from it, and I have never heard of any alternative therapies (and the doctor took over an hour--after the rocephin shot--to decide whether to admit her or send her home) I didn't want to take any chances. 

*She was sent home.  We had to bring her back twice for the shots, then started the amoxycillin.

What is the objection to antibiotics, if I may ask?  In my opinion, pneumonia is a case that warrants them.  Just make sure to finish the prescription--even if he feels better, don't stop because he feels better, that is how you get the supergerms.  Of course, we have 100% paid  for, no co-pay health insurance through my military service.  I don't have to stop and think about or make a choice between filling a prescription or buying groceries or paying the light bill...

[zebra15]

As someone who has had pnuemonia I can tell you it's painful.  I would want the meds.  I dont know of any other alternative treatments but RX.  I have asthma, as does my son so pneumonia is something I am familiar with and its not an illness to mess around with.  Ive also spent many many hours in the dr's office, ER etc getting treatments for this illness.  Its painful and serious.

[mbravebird]

I've heard of someone who treated a stubborn pneumonia with large doses of liquid Olive Leaf Extract, and was successful.

I think Barlean's is the liquid with the highest potency. We used it this week to knock out my toddler's ear infection.

[beautyful]

The only alternative we've tried is when radiology missed the pneumonia and she then spent several days in the hospital with IV and inhaled steroids.

Antibiotics for the win!

[bri276]

I avoid abx for minor infections as well, but pneumonia can be life threatening and I would absolutely give the abx.

[major_mama11]

Minor pneumonia can turn into severe pneumonia pretty quickly in a small child. I totally understand seeking alternatives for minor things- I avoid antibiotics for minor infections as well. My 5-year-old has only had antibx once in her life, because I tend to treat at home as much as possible.

However, pneumonia can be life-threatening and can land a child in the hospital for several unpleasant days of IV antibiotics, if not treated with PO antibiotics to kill off the bacteria. Heck, even with PO antibiotics, sometimes it progresses anyway and further treatment is needed.

Please take take the dr's suggestion on this one. I hope your kiddo feels better soon!

[Apple Girl]

I agree that you should go with your doctor's rec. on this one.  Pneumonia is a pretty big deal, and not being able to get enough air is both scary and painful. 

Actually, I just noticed that your post was written almost a week ago.  Any updates?  I hope your little one is starting to feel better by now!