A member asked:

I had a case of pneumonia about 5 weeks ago my last scan showed that the pneumonia is totally cleared up i am still feeling very tired and listless is that normal after pneumonia?

12 doctors weighed in across 6 answers
Dr. Edward Hirsch answered

Specializes in Infectious Disease

Maybe: How long were you sick with the pneumonia? How long did you stay in bed? The longer you sit around and don't move (like we all do when sick) the more your muscles atrophy. You should see your doctor or contact someone here for a more in-depth consultation.

Answered 2/24/2018

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Dr. Stephen Southard answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

It could be normal: As if you have a very severe case of pneumonia and/or signficant underlying comorbidities(like COPD, heart disease, heart failure, etc) it can really take awhile to recover phyiscally and mentally from an acute illness, like pneumonia. You should review this with your doc to make sure otherwise something else isn't going on! Best of luck.

Answered 10/31/2015

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Dr. Paul Velt answered

Specializes in Diagnostic Radiology

It might be: most are surprised by how long it takes after a bad case of pneumonia. It can take an X-ray as long as a month to return to "normal ". It will take longer than that to get your strength back.

Answered 9/7/2015

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Likely: You did not state the causative agent of pneumonia. Viral infections, one cause of pneumonia, can have lasting effects, similar to your symptoms. Start increasing your activity gradually, as tolerated.

Answered 9/7/2015

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Further tests: At 5 weeks you should be getting your energy back. May be worthwhile to get tests on thyroid and adrenal function, as well as ruling out things like congestive heart failure which can present like pneumonia at times. Best of luck.

Answered 9/16/2015

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Dr. Amrita Dosanjh answered

Specializes in Pediatric Allergy and Asthma

Workup/Nutrition: Another suggestion is to eat a healthy diet including lean sources of protein. Sometimes infection may be associated with anemia.

Answered 9/7/2015

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