Aspiration of oral secretions by patients with impaired consciousness is the most common cause of lung abscesses; thus, anaerobic bacteria are among the most common pathogens.
Bacteria that normally live in the mouth and are inhaled into the lungs cause a lung abscess. Fatigue, loss of appetite, night sweats, fever, weight loss, and a cough that produces sputum are all symptoms. A chest x-ray is usually used to make the diagnosis.
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for a lung abscess. Long-term medication use may be required for up to six months. Changes in lifestyle, such as quitting smoking and drinking more fluids, may also be recommended. More invasive procedures or surgery may be required in some cases.
Surgical procedure: Although it is uncommon, some people require surgery to remove the abscessed portion of the lung. To get rid of the infection, the entire lung may have to be removed. Surgery can also aid in the removal of a foreign object.
The lung abscess manifests rapidly as a pneumonitis with pleural involvement. Percutaneous drainage is frequently required as an emergency procedure for these patients.
To reduce the risk of a lung abscess, it is critical to avoid aspiration. Early intubation should be considered in patients who have a reduced ability to protect the airway from massive aspiration (cough, gag reflexes). The risk of aspiration is reduced by positioning the supine patient at a 30° reclined angle.
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