around it. The infected tissue at the center dies and becomes filled with pus. This is the abscess. Many people will have signs for a few weeks or a few months before going to the doctor for treatment. ‚
What are the causes?
Germs cause lung abscesses. Often the germs are those found in your mouth if you have some kind of gum disease. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Breathing in secretions that normally live in the mouth or throat. This most often happens if you are unconscious or very sleepy from surgery, an illness, drugs, or alcohol.
- Pneumonia
- A blockage in the airways from a tumor or foreign object
- Blood clots in the lung
What are the main signs?
- Fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C)
- Bad breath
- Cough
- Fluid coughed up may look like pus, be streaked with blood, or smell very bad
- Chest pain
- Weight loss and feeling tired
- Night sweats
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will do a physical exam and listen to your chest. The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- Chest x-ray
- CT scan or MRI
- Culture of fluid you are able to cough up
- Bronchoscopy to look inside of your lungs
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may order drugs to treat the infection. Sometimes, the infection will need to be drained with surgery or during a bronchoscopy. The doctor may need to take out a small part of your lung to make sure the abscess is completely gone. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
Your doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Treat infection
- Lower fever and pain
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Keep your mouth clean. Brush and floss your teeth at least 2 times each day.
- Take all of the drugs ordered for you. Do not stop taking your drugs just because you are feeling better. You may need to take drugs for infection for months to get rid of the infection.
- Avoid drinking beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
Where can I learn more?
My Virtual Medical Centre ‚
http://www.myvmc.com/diseases/lung-abscess/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚