Question
Is hospitalization and intravenous treatment always necessary for childhood pneumonia? Are there oral medications available for treatment?
Answer
In traditional Chinese medicine, there are various treatment methods for childhood pneumonia, depending on the syndrome. For the type with external cold and internal heat, symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, and severe cough and asthma. A modified formula of Shuanghua Gancao Decoction can be used, consisting of Ephedra, Althea officinalis, and Gypsum Fibrosum. For the type with warm pathogens invading the lung, symptoms include high fever, dry cough without phlegm, thin yellow tongue coating, and large and rapid pulse. A modified formula of Qinghao Ffang can be used, consisting of Lonicera japonica, Verbascum thapsus, and Polygonum bistorta.