Surgery should mark the beginning of your recovery. But for thousands of patients each year, another threat starts brewing after the procedure: pneumonia. What should be a time for healing turns into a fight against a serious lung infection.
A lot of people don’t even know it’s a risk until it becomes complicated. But if you know what signs to look for, you can catch it early and keep things from getting worse. And if you understand why it happens, you can take a few simple steps to help stop it before it starts.
So let’s explore what causes pneumonia after surgery, the warning signs, how to prevent it, and tips to recover quickly.
5 Key Causes of Pneumonia After Surgery
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the lungs, filling them with fluid or pus, and making it harder to breathe. There are certain reasons that can increase your risk of having pneumonia after surgery:
1. Immobility
After surgery, you stay in bed for too long, and your lungs don’t expand fully. You start taking shallow breaths, especially if you’re in pain or groggy from anesthesia. Lungs need deep breaths to stay clear. Shallow breathing means mucus and secretions can start building up in the lower parts of the lungs.
That stagnant fluid becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Under normal circumstances, you’d cough or take deep breaths that help clear out those secretions. But if you’re too sore, too tired, or under sedation, those secretions can sit there, turning into post-surgery infection.
2. Being on a Ventilator
Patients who undergo major surgery may need help breathing temporarily through a ventilator. While this is often lifesaving, it also increases the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Germs can travel down the breathing tube and settle in the lungs.
3. Underlying Conditions That Increase Risk
Certain health conditions make it harder for your body to fight infections. You may be more at risk of pneumonia after surgery if you have:
- Chronic lung conditions (like asthma, COPD, or bronchitis)
- Weakened immune system (from illnesses, medications, or cancer treatment)
- Smoking history, which damages lung tissue, or inhaling chemicals at work
- Diabetes, which can slow healing and reduce immune response
- Older age, as lung function naturally decreases over time
4. Surgical Types That Pose Higher Risk
Some surgeries carry a higher risk of pneumonia than others. These include:
- Chest or abdominal surgeries, which can make breathing deeply painful
- Heart surgeries, due to longer recovery times and the use of breathing machines
- Emergency surgeries, where there’s less time for preparation and lung function support
5. Aspiration (Swallowing Problems After Surgery)
Some patients struggle with swallowing after anesthesia. Small amounts of food, liquid, or stomach acid can accidentally go down the wrong pipe into your lungs. This is called aspiration, and it can lead to a dangerous type of pneumonia called aspiration pneumonia. Older adults or those who have had neck or stomach surgery are more prone to it.
Symptoms of Pneumonia After Surgery
Since they do not appear immediately, the signs can be easy to miss at first. Here are a few symptoms you can look out for.
Early Warning Signs
- A cough that may produce yellow, green, or bloody mucus
- A low-grade fever (even a slight rise in temperature)
- Feeling more tired than usual or weak
- Shortness of breath, especially during light activity
- Chest discomfort when breathing or coughing
- Loss of appetite or nausea
Emergency Symptoms
- High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Breathing complications (feeling like you can’t catch your breath)
- Sharp or stabbing chest pain when breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Bluish lips or fingernails
- Confusion, dizziness, or sudden changes in alertness
How Post-Operative Pneumonia Differs from Regular Pneumonia
Pneumonia is often a complication of a cold or flu. However, post-surgical pneumonia usually starts in a hospital setting. This is called “hospital-acquired pneumonia”. It is more severe and may linger for a long time due to more resistant bacteria.
Also, after surgery, your body may not be able to clear mucus from your lungs as easily due to pain, anesthesia effects, or limited movement. That gives germs more chances to grow and cause chest infection.
Recovery Tips and Home Care Advice
Recovering from pneumonia after surgery takes time, but with the proper care, you can heal safely and avoid setbacks. These tips can help you recover more comfortably.
- Practice breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly from your mouth.
- Cough gently to help loosen and remove mucus.
- Drink plenty of water and clear soups to thin mucus and keep your lungs clear.
- Eat balanced meals with enough protein and vegetables.
- Monitor the return of cough, fever, or breathing trouble, and report to your physician.
How to Prevent Pneumonia After Surgery
Here’s how to stay ahead of this common complication.
- Avoid lying flat for long periods—elevate your head when resting.
- Keep your mouth clean, especially if you’re using oxygen or breathing devices, to reduce bacteria.
- Use chest physiotherapy (like gentle tapping or positioning) if your doctor or physiotherapist recommends it.
Final Thoughts
Pneumonia after surgery can be a challenging setback during recovery, but being well-informed can make all the difference. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, reach out to your nearest emergency room right away.
ER Mesquite is open 24/7, ready to stabilize your condition with IV antibiotics and oxygen therapy. Our onsite imaging like CT scan allows us to quickly assess the severity of the lung infection and provide the right treatment.
You’ve made it through the operation, now let’s keep your lungs clear and your recovery on track.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to recover from pneumonia after surgery?
It takes around 1 to 2 weeks to feel better, but full recovery can take up to 6 weeks or more. Therefore, take good care of your health to increase your recovery rates.
2. Can pneumonia after surgery be prevented completely?
No, you can not completely prevent it, but you can reduce its risk. Engage in breathing exercises, early movement, and hydration to prevent pneumonia after surgery.
3. What does pneumonia feel like after surgery?
Pneumonia after surgery typically presents with symptoms such as cough, chest discomfort, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue. These symptoms can be easily mistaken for normal post-surgery discomfort, so it’s essential to remain vigilant.
4. Should I go to the emergency room if I think I have pneumonia after surgery?
Yes, if you notice signs like high fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, or worsening cough, seek medical care immediately. Early treatment helps prevent complications and supports a faster recovery.
5. When does postoperative pneumonia occur?
It develops within 48-72 hours after surgery or up to 30 days following the procedure. Therefore, it’s important to stay alert to your health during the first few weeks of recovery.