There are several types of lung infections, namely-
1. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is one of the most common lung infections, and it causes inflammation in the lungs. Fungi, bacteria, and different viruses all can cause pneumonia. This disease causes the alveoli of the lungs to swell, thus making it difficult for individuals to breathe.
Signs and symptoms of pneumonia:
- Weakness
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Confusion
- Low blood oxygen levels
- Difficulty breathing
2. Tuberculosis
In many individuals, the TB bacteria live in their bodies themselves without causing any illness. However, in many cases, TB affects an individual's lungs and might also affect other areas of one's body.
A contagious bacterium known as Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the main cause of tuberculosis. However, if this bacterium enters other parts of an individual's body, it can give rise to additional symptoms.
Signs and symptoms of tuberculosis:
- Coughing up blood
- Fever or chills
- A cough that might last for more than 3 weeks
- Weakness
- Chest pain
3. Influenza
Influenza is a type of lung infection that affects the lungs, throat, nose, and lungs. The air sacs of the lungs can be inflamed and damaged by severe cases of influenza, making it difficult for individuals to breathe.
The flu generally goes away on its own, however, infants, people with weak immune systems, older adults, and young children are likely to suffer from heavy breathing issues. Influenza can cause serious trouble in breathing for newborns, and it can result in hospitalisation.
Signs and symptoms of influenza:
- Muscle ache
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Intense fatigue
- High fever
- Severe symptoms of cold which appear suddenly
4. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an infection formed in the bronchial tubes, which helps the lungs take in oxygen. This infection is similar to pneumonia, that is, it can either be bacterial or viral. In rare cases, an individual might develop bronchitis after they have another infection.
Signs and symptoms of bronchitis:
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Coughing for several weeks after a cold
- Wheezing or coughing
5. Whooping Cough
Whooping cough, also known as Pertussis, is a highly contagious bacterial infection common among young children and infants.
Although a vaccine can prevent this infection, a decrease in the rate of vaccination is increasing whooping cough cases.
Signs and symptoms of whooping cough:
- Difficulty in breathing
- An intense cough making a ‘whooping sound’
- Gasping for air
- Long coughing fits