Lung Infection
A virus, bacteria, or even a fungus can all cause a lung infection. One of the most common types of lung infections is pneumonia. Pneumonia, which affects the lungs' smaller air sacs, is most commonly caused by contagious bacteria, but it can also be caused by a virus. After a nearby infected person sneezes or coughs, a person becomes infected by breathing in the bacteria or virus.
How do 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.
Lung infections, such as pneumonia, are typically mild, but they can be severe, especially in people with compromised immune systems or chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Symptoms
A lung infection can cause mild to severe symptoms. This is determined by a number of factors, including your age and general health, as well as whether the infection is caused by a virus, bacteria, or fungus. Symptoms may resemble those of a cold or flu, but they last longer.
The following are symptoms of a lung infection:
1. A cough that produces a lot of mucus
Coughing aids in the removal of mucus produced by 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:
- Clear
- White
- Green
- Yellowish-grey
2. 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.
3. 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:
- Sweating
- Muscle aches
- Dehydration
- Headache
- Weakness
4. 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.
5. A stuffy nose
A runny nose and other flu-like symptoms, such as sneezing, are frequently associated with a lung infection such as bronchitis.
6. Breathing difficulty
Shortness of breath indicates that you find breathing difficult or that you are unable to fully inhale. If you're having trouble breathing, you should see a doctor right away.
7. Tiredness
As your body fights off an infection, you will typically feel sluggish and tired. During this time, rest is essential.
8. Sneezing
When you exhale, you may hear wheezing, which is a high-pitched whistling sound. This is caused by clogged airways or inflammation.
9. 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.
10. 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
Lung infections are classified into three types: bronchitis, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis. They are usually brought on by a virus or bacteria.
The most common microorganisms that cause bronchitis are:
- Viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Bordetella pertussis are examples of bacteria.
The following are the most common microorganisms that cause pneumonia:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae (the most common), Haemophilus influenzae, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae are examples of bacteria.
- Viruses like the influenza virus and RSV
Fungi such as Pneumocystis jirovecii, Aspergillus, or Histoplasma capsulatum can cause lung infections in rare cases. Fungal lung infection is more common in people who are immunocompromised, either due to cancer or HIV, or because they are taking immunosuppressive medications.
Treatment
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. Antibiotics will not treat viral infections. Most of the time, you'll have to wait for your body to fight the infection on its own.
In the meantime, the following home care remedies can help your body fight off the infection and make you more comfortable:
- To reduce your fever, take acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Drink plenty of water
- Try a cup of hot tea with honey or ginger
- Gargle with saltwater
- Rest as much as you can
- To add moisture to the air, use a humidifier
- Take any prescribed antibiotics until they are finished
You may need to stay in a hospital during your recovery if you have a severe lung infection. If you have difficulty breathing, you may be given antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and respiratory therapy during your stay.
Prevention
Although not all lung infections can be avoided, you can reduce your risk by following these guidelines:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Do not touch your mouth and face with your hands
- Avoid sharing utensils, food, or beverages with others
- Avoid congested areas where a virus can easily spread
- Don't use tobacco
- To avoid influenza infection, get a flu shot every year
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:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine PCV13
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine PPSV23
These vaccines are advised for:
- Newborns
- Adults in their golden years
- Those who smoke
Conclusion
A lung infection has symptoms similar to the common cold or flu, but it can be more severe and lasts longer.
Typically, your immune system will be able to clear a viral lung infection over time. Bacterial lung infections are treated with antibiotics.
Consult your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Breathing difficulties
- Bluish tint to your lips or fingertips
- Excruciating chest pain
- A high temperature
If you are over the age of 65, have a child under the age of two, or have a chronic health condition or a compromised immune system, you should seek medical attention right away if you have any symptoms of a lung infection.
