Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Meghana Reddy S

What is a Lung Infection?

A lung infection is a medical condition in which harmful organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, invade and inflame the tissues of the lungs. These infections can interfere with breathing, reduce oxygen exchange, and, if left untreated, lead to serious complications. Lung infections vary in severity and type, but they are a common cause of illness across all age groups.

Types of Lung Infections

There are several types of lung infections, including:

How Do Lung Infections Occur?

Bronchitis occurs when the large bronchial tubes that carry air to and from your lungs become infected. Bronchitis is more likely to be caused by a virus rather than a bacterial infection.

Viruses can also infiltrate the lungs or the airways leading to the lungs. Bronchiolitis is the medical term for this condition. Infants are the most commonly affected by viral bronchiolitis.

Symptoms of lung infections

A lung infection can cause mild to severe symptoms. These are determined by several factors, including age and general health, as well as whether the infection is caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungus.

The following are symptoms of a lung infection:

Strong chest pains:

The pain in the chest caused by a lung infection is frequently described as sharp or stabbing. When coughing or breathing deeply, chest pain tends to worsen. Sharp pains can sometimes be felt in your mid to upper back.

High fever:

A fever develops as your body attempts to combat the infection. The average body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C). If you have a bacterial lung infection, your fever can reach dangerous levels of 105°F (40.5°C). Any high fever above 102°F (38.9°C) frequently causes a slew of other symptoms, including:

A cough that produces a lot of mucus:

Coughing aids in the removal of mucus produced by the airway and pulmonary inflammation. This mucus may contain blood as well. When you have bronchitis or pneumonia, you may have a cough that produces thick mucus with a distinct color, such as:

Muscle aches:

When you have a lung infection, your muscles and back may ache. This is known as myalgia. When you have an infection, you may experience muscle inflammation, which can lead to body aches.

A stuffy nose:

A runny nose and other flu-like symptoms, such as sneezing, are frequently associated with a lung infection such as bronchitis.

Breathing difficulty:

Shortness of breath indicates that breathing is difficult or that you are unable to inhale fully. If you're having trouble breathing, you should see a doctor right away.

Tiredness:

As your body fights off an infection, you will typically feel sluggish and tired. Rest is essential during this time.

Sneezing:

When you exhale, you may hear wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound. This is caused by clogged airways or inflammation.

The appearance of bluish skin or lips:

Due to a lack of oxygen, your lips or nails may begin to turn a slightly blue color.

Rattling or crackling sounds in the lungs:

A crackling sound in the base of the lungs, also known as bibasilar crackles, is one of the telltale signs of a lung infection. A stethoscope is a tool that a doctor can use to hear these sounds.

Causes of Lung Infections

Lung infections are caused by:

Treatment for lung infections

Antibiotics are usually required to treat a bacterial infection. An antifungal medication, such as ketoconazole or voriconazole, will be required to treat a fungal lung infection.

Lung infection antibiotics do not treat viral infections. Usually, you'll have to wait for your body to fight the infection on its own.

Home remedies for lung infections

The following home care remedies can help your body fight off the infection and make you more comfortable:

Preventions of lung infection:

Although not all lung infections can be avoided, you can reduce your risk by following these guidelines:

For those at higher risk, one of two vaccines is the most effective way to prevent bacterial pneumonia caused by the most common strains of bacteria:

These vaccines are advised for:

Conclusion:

A lung infection can feel like a cold or the flu, but it is often more serious and can last longer. If the infection is caused by a virus, your body can usually fight it off on its own. If it is caused by bacteria, you may need antibiotics to get better.

You should see a doctor right away if you have trouble breathing, blue lips or fingertips, strong chest pain, or a high fever. People over 65, children under 2, or anyone with ongoing health problems or a weak immune system should get medical help quickly if they have any signs of a lung infection.

Frequently Asked Questions