Various infections affecting lungs, either by blocking larger airways or by damaging smaller air sacs are classified under the umbrella of a chest infection.
Caused due to bacterial accumulation and build-up of pus cells, this condition causes inflammation of the airways and breathing difficulty.
If left untreated for a longer period of time it may harm the structural as well as functional attributes of the lungs, turning it to be fatal.
Chest infections can primarily be divided into two broad categories, such as acute bronchitis and pneumonia; both of which express relatively same symptoms and found to be prevalent in adults, older age people and kids.
Major Risk Factors
- Chronic Smokers
- People Exposed To Maximum Pollution
- Allergens
- Children With Developmental Disorders And Less Immunity
- Pregnant Women
- Elderly, Undergoing Treatments, like Radiation, Chemotherapy
Signs & Symptoms
- Chronic Cough With Either Green Or Yellow Mucus
- Shortness Of Breath, Wheezing Sound During Breathing
- Persistent Chest Pain Or Severe Discomfort During Breathing
- A Mild Headache
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
Diagnosis And Treatment
The diagnosis is often done on the basis of evaluation of family history, medical background, X-ray analysis, lung function test along with the analysis of phlegm and blood. Depending upon the final assessments and complexity of the health condition, a doctor may prescribe steroidal medication, nebulization or both.
