Lung Infections Specialist

What are lung infections?

When bacteria, fungi, or a virus enters your lungs and settles there, you can develop a lung infection. Some infections pass from person to person, while others occur after inhaling bacteria or fungi in the environment.

There are several types of lung infections Dr. Newton treats, including:

Bronchitis

Bronchitis causes inflammation in your bronchi, the air passages that connect your trachea to tiny air sacs in your lungs. This inflammation causes your bronchi to swell and fill with sticky mucus, limiting your breathing and making you cough.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia generally starts with an infection that causes inflammation in one or both of your lungs. Your lungs fill with mucus and pus, making it difficult for you to breathe. The air sacs in your lungs also become less flexible and can’t send oxygen to your blood properly.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a type of bacteria found in water and soil that can cause infections in humans. The condition typically develops in the lungs or blood following surgery or the use of a ventilator. In some cases, pseudomonas aeruginosa becomes resistant to treatment with antibiotics.

Mycobacterium avium complex

Mycobacterium avium complex are a group of bacteria found in soil and water that can enter your lungs and cause an infection. These bacteria can cause complications, including permanent lung damage, in those who have an existing lung disease like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What are the symptoms of lung infections?

Lung infections can cause a variety of symptoms, many of which affect your respiratory health and function. Some of the common signs you may have a lung infection include:

• Fever
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Persistent tiredness
• Shortness of breath

You might also have excess mucus or hear crackling sounds in your lungs when you breathe.

Dr. Newton offers lung function testing in-office to assess how much air you can take in and how efficiently you can move it out of your lungs. You may need additional diagnostic imaging tests like a chest X-ray to identify infections or obstructions in your lungs.

How are lung infections treated?

Treating lung infections that result from bacteria typically involves a course of antibiotics to clear the infection. If you have an infection that’s resistant to antibiotics, Dr. Newton can design a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.

Viral infections aren’t treatable with antibiotics. Dr. Newton can recommend at-home treatments to keep you comfortable. You also need to get plenty of rest and drink fluids to stay hydrated.

Dr. Newton focuses on your long-term lung function and health. He may recommend strategies to improve your breathing and reduce your risk of developing additional lung infections.

If you have symptoms of a lung infection, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at the office of Michael N. Newton MD by phone or book an appointment online today.