do i have pneumonia?

when i cough i have extremely sore chest
the pain is directly in the middle of my chest
do i have pneumonia and if so what antibiotics should i take?
i would be very happy if any one can advise

[National Jewish]

There are many causes of cough, other than pneumonia.  A hard cough can cause chest pain, regardless of the cause of the cough.  Pneumonia is inflammation of the lung.  This is most commonly due to an infection.  Antibiotics will help a bacterial infection, but will not help a viral infection.  Over time your body's natural defenses will clear a viral infection.  Pneumonia may begin with a fever.  Other symptoms may include chills, headache, a dry cough, a general feeling of discomfort and body aches.  It is generally best diagnosed by chest x-ray in addition to a thorough examination.  You will need to see your doctor to know for sure if you have pneumonia and what treatment would be best for you.

[AndyRRT]

Go see your doctor. Pneumonia isn't a condition that can be self diagnosed or self treated. The only way we can tell if someone has a pneumonia is by getting a chest Xray.

Don't forget, pneumonia isn't the only chest ailment that causes coughing and chest soreness. The common cold can cause this as well. And ti's the season for colds!


Andy, RRT,CPFT

[tacs19]

I have a bad cough and im coughing up phlegm plus my back and chest hurt. kind of a tickle feeling in my chest and back. do i have pneumonia or is this just part of the flu. i dont have a fever and im not feeling especially ill.