Health Tip: Treating Pneumonia

(HealthDay News) -- Pneumonia can be a very serious illness and require hospitalization for the very young, the elderly, or people whose immune systems are compromised.

While for most people, a trip to the hospital isn't needed, pneumonia isn't to be taken lightly, the University of Maryland Medical Center says.

Here's the hospital's list of the most common physician suggestions to treat pneumonia:

• A prescription antibiotic.
• Drinking lots of fluids.
• Use of an expectorant, but not a cough suppressant.
• Taking pain relievers.
• Practicing breathing exercises.