TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Lung infection caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Bronchitis, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis are common types of lung infections caused by these microorganisms. Reported from Health LineThe most common microorganisms responsible for bronchitis include the influenza virus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as bacteria such as Mycoplasma pneumonia, Chlamydia pneumonia, and Bordetella pertussis.
Lung infections such as pneumonia are usually mild but can be serious, especially for people with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms of a lung infection vary from mild to severe, depending on several factors, including age and health conditions.
Symptoms also depend on the cause infection, whether caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Symptoms may be similar to those of a cold or flu but tend to last longer. Check out the following 10 symptoms of lung infection.
Cough with thick mucus
Coughing helps rid the body of mucus that results from inflammation of the airways and lungs. This mucus may also contain blood. People with bronchitis or pneumonia will have a cough that produces thick mucus and may be of different colors, such as clear, white, green, and yellowish-gray. The cough may persist for several weeks, even after other symptoms have improved.
Chest pain
Chest pain caused by a lung infection is often described as a stabbing pain. Chest pain tends to get worse when you cough or take deep breaths. Sometimes, a sharp pain can be felt in the middle to the upper back.
Fever
Fever occurs when the body is trying to fight off an infection. Normal body temperature is usually around 37°C. If you have a bacterial lung infection, your fever can rise as high as 40.5°C. Any high fever above 38.9°C often causes many other symptoms, such as sweating, chills, muscle aches, dehydration, headaches, and weakness. See a doctor immediately if the fever is more than 38.9°C or lasts more than three days.
Body aches
Muscles and back may feel sore when you have a lung infection, called myalgia. Sometimes there is inflammation of the muscles which can also cause body aches when you have an infection.
Runny nose
Runny nose and other flu-like symptoms, such as sneezing, often accompany lung infections such as bronchitis.
Hard to breathe
Shortness of breath interferes with activities because you will have difficulty breathing. You should see a doctor immediately if you experience this.
Feel tired
You will usually feel lethargic and tired as your body fights off the infection. Get plenty of rest is very important in the fight against these microorganisms.
Breath sounds
When you breathe, you may hear a high-pitched whistling sound known as wheezing. This sound is caused by narrowed or inflamed airways.
Skin and lips turn blue
Blue lips or fingernails are a sign that you are deprived of oxygen. Immediately consult a doctor if you experience these symptoms.
A rattling sound in the lungs
One of the signs of a lung infection is a crackling sound at the bottom the lungs, as known as bibasilar crackles. This sound can be heard using a stethoscope.
Also read: Understanding Liver and Lung Infections Experienced by Ameer Azzikra
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