DEFINITION
What Is A Lung Abscess?
A Lung Abscess is an infection of the lungs. This disease causes pus-filled, necrotic swelling of the lung tissue, and the formation of cavities filled with necrotic granules or as a result of microbial infection. The formation of multiple abscesses can lead to pneumonia or lung necrosis.
How Common Are Lung Abscesses?
This disease can occur at any age. However, people older than 60 years are at risk for lung abscess. You can prevent this disease by reducing risk factors. Please consult your doctor for more information.
Photo credit: Star Health Insurance
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Lung Abscess?
Symptoms of a lung abscess usually occur over a period of several weeks to several months, and include: fever, chills, sweating, coughing and an unpleasant smell of saliva. Patients often experience fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite and weight loss. Sometimes it can produce bloody saliva and chest pain and is exacerbated by coughing and deepening of the breath. Patients may experience a rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, wheezing, and pleural effusion.
There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.
When Should I See A Doctor?
If you have the above signs or symptoms or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.
REASONS
What Causes Lung Abscess?
Inhalation of foreign bodies is a major cause of lung abscess. The foreign body is usually food, drink, vomit, or secretions from the mouth that are inhaled into the lungs. Swelling, pneumonia, and abscess formation may occur within 7-14 days. Stroke, epilepsy, drug abuse, alcohol, dental disease, emphysema, lung cancer, and esophageal disorders can all cause inhalation of foreign bodies.
The bacteria that cause lung abscesses are usually anaerobic (grow without oxygen) and originate in the mouth. Other microorganisms such as parasites and fungi can also cause lung infections and lead to abscesses.
RISK FACTORS
What Increases My Risk For A Lung Abscess?
Certain factors that increase your risk of developing a lung abscess include:
- Alcoholic;
- Drug abuse;
- Having other conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, and periodontal disease, emphysema, lung cancer and esophageal disorders
TREATMENT
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What Are My Treatment Options For A Lung Abscess?
The doctor will first remove the microorganism that is causing the lung abscess. Then the doctor will treat the diseases that cause the abscess such as epilepsy, alcoholism, poor oral hygiene or stroke.
Most patients require intravenous fluids and oral antibiotics for 4-6 weeks. 95% of patients recover, but treatment depends on the cause.
What Are The Usual Tests For Lung Abscess?
Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and a chest X-ray. Your doctor may need a tomography of the chest to check for abscesses. Blood and saliva tests may be done to help identify the bacteria or microorganism causing the abscess. Your doctor may need a bronchoscopy to check for lung cancer if there are signs of material blocking the airways.
HOME REMEDIES
What Are Some Lifestyle Changes Or Home Remedies That Can Be Done To Treat A Lung Abscess?
Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with a lung abscess:
- Take all necessary antibiotics.
- Call your doctor if you have epilepsy, pain when swallowing, choking on food when you swallow or a fever that lasts more than 7 days after starting antibiotics.
- Call your doctor if you have problems with alcohol or drugs.
- Tell your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, fever, coughing up blood, or have any problems with your medications (rash, diarrhea, swollen tongue, wheezing or shortness of breath.
If you have any questions, consult a doctor for the best solution for your problem.