Lung Inflammation Treatment

The human respiratory system consists of the nasal passage, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and a pair of organs known as lungs. The lungs are located, under the ribcage, on the either side of the chest and are undoubtedly one of the most important organs of the respiratory system. They facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, a process that is very vital for one's survival. When we inhale, the air first moves through the trachea and then reaches the lungs through bronchi. These tubular bronchi get further divided into tiny airways called bronchioles. The exchange or transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place within the clusters of microscopic air sacs located at the end of these bronchioles. Lungs are also lined and protected by a two-layered membranous structure called pleura. The two layers of the pleural sacs are separated by a fluid. This fluid coating acts as a lubricant and allows the layers to slide over each other as the lungs inflate and deflate. When the lungs become inflamed, one's breathing pattern gets affected and one experiences a host of distressing symptoms. In this article, we will find out what causes inflammation of the lungs and how it can be treated.

Causes and Symptoms of Lung Inflammation

Pneumonia is one such medical condition that is most likely to cause inflammation of the lungs. Infection in one or both lungs could be caused due to viruses or bacteria, however, Streptococcus pneumoniae is one such bacteria that is commonly responsible for causing pneumonia in adults as well as children. The symptoms of pneumonia include chest congestion, painful breathing, fever, vomiting or nausea. In medical terminology, an inflammation of the protective lining of the lungs is referred to as pleurisy. Both bacterial as well as viral lung infections could cause this condition.

Pleural effusion refers to the buildup of fluid between the layers of the pleura, which is a membrane that separates lungs and inner walls of the chest. This condition could also cause inflammation of the lungs. A person suffering from this condition might suffer from shortness of breath or painful breathing. When both the lungs as well as pleura get inflamed, one is said to suffer from pleura-pneumonia. At times, lung inflammation could also be caused due to exposure to environmental toxins. Excessive smoking can also cause the lungs to get inflamed. At times, lung inflammation might be a symptom of various other lung diseases such as asthma, chest colds, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary embolism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, emphysema or lung cancer.

Treatment Options for Lung Inflammation

Lung inflammation treatment options will depend on the underlying cause of the inflammation, so, doctors generally run some tests to determine the underlying cause. If lung inflammation is caused by a bacterial lung infection, doctors generally recommend the use of antibiotics. If the inflammation is attributed to bronchitis, asthma or allergies, the patient will be advised to use inhalers or bronchodilators. This is to help restore normal breathing. The use of pain medicines or anti-inflammatory drugs is often recommended for treating a lung infection. Generally, medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin are prescribed for alleviating symptoms such as pain or fever. If there is a buildup of fluid between the two layers of the pleura, the treatment will generally involve the drainage of the fluid. This will help normalize breathing.

If one is suffering from dry pleurisy, where one suffers from chest pain due to the inflamed layers rubbing against each other, the treatment generally involves use of anti-inflammatory medicines. If the symptoms are severe, doctors might even prescribe corticosteroids. At times, inflammation is so severe that the patient might have to be hospitalized. In such severe cases, the treatments for lung inflammation generally involve intravenous administration of antibiotics combined with mechanical ventilation. Taking ample rest will also help one recover, so, the patient must not indulge in any activity that puts stress on the lungs. Those who often suffer from allergies need to make sure that they are not exposed to smoke, chemicals or any such environmental toxins. Since smokers are at an increased risk of developing lung infections or diseases, the wise thing to do would be to quit smoking.

Since inflammation of the lungs could be caused due to serious medical conditions, those experiencing any of these symptoms must get themselves medically examined. If diagnosed at an early stage, lung infections or any other conditions that cause inflammation of the lungs can be successfully managed.