Pneumonitis is a general term for lung inflammation. When your lungs swell and become inflamed, your airways may feel constricted, and you will likely find it harder to take deep breaths. Pneumonitis can be caused by different things. Continue reading to learn more about the 3 most common causes of pneumonitis.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia represents an infection in one or both lungs that causes inflammation of the tiny air sacs lining the lungs, known as alveoli. Fungi, bacteria, or viruses can cause pneumonia, causing the alveoli to fill with fluid and make breathing more difficult. The severity of pneumonia depends on a person’s age, any underlying health conditions, and the cause of the infection.
The symptoms of pneumonia can seem very similar to that of the common cold. Still, a patient may die from this condition without treatment. Pneumonia is responsible for the highest rate of hospital admissions among all diseases. Treatment for this condition depends on the type of infection
Asthma
Asthma causes you to have shortness of breath and wheezing. The linings of both airways that connect the lungs to the trachea become inflamed, narrowing these passages. Dust, dander, smoke, or harsh chemical fumes can induce an asthma attack.
Asthma has no cure, but you can control your symptoms with regular, inhaled corticosteroids and rescue inhalers for emergencies. Untreated asthma could lead to constant inflammation that destroys the linings of the bronchial tubes.
Irritants
Irritants like dust, cigarette smoke, and paint particulate can cause lung inflammation. Smoking tobacco in cigarettes, cigars, or pipes can increase your risk for lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Other lung irritants, such as asbestos and coal dust, could worsen lung diseases.
Visit your physician every year to ensure you are in good health. If you experience regular shortness of breath, schedule an earlier appointment with your doctor, which may be related to an underlying condition.
Reference Links
- “Pneumonitis” via Mayo Clinic
- “Top 20 Pneumonia Facts- 2019” via American Thoracic Society
- “What Is Asthma” via National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
- “Health Effects of Cigarette Smoking” via Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
