Dr.M. J. Bazos, MD
Patient Handout
ABSCESS,
LUNG
About Your
DiagnosisLung abscess refers to a
cavity in your lung filled with pus. Predisposing factors are stroke, excessive
sleepiness, alcoholism, and poor oral hygiene. The diagnosis may be suspected
from the history, although a chest x-ray and/or computed tomography (CT) scan of
the chest, in addition to sputum and blood culture results are helpful. Most
cases are not contagious. Successful treatment depends on the underlying cause
and coexisting medical
problems.Living With Your
DiagnosisProductive cough is not
always present but may be foul smelling and associated with a spiking fever,
chills, and weight loss. Careful examination of the oral cavity including the
teeth, the swallowing mechanism, and the heart (listening for heart murmurs) is
also very useful. Complications from a lung abscess may include rupture of the
abscess into the pleural space, respiratory failure and septic shock, increased
shortness of breath, and chest or upper abdominal
pain.TreatmentThe
best treatment is a prolonged course of appropriate antibiotic therapy,
initially intravenously and then orally. Postural drainage, careful monitoring
for any complicating events, and occasionally surgery is necessary. With prompt
and adequate treatment, most lung abscesses collapse and heal over 4–6
weeks.The
DOsIt is very important to complete
the full course of antibiotic therapy as outlined by your physician. Prompt
notification for any relapse in terms of fever, hemoptysis (coughing up blood),
adverse medication effects, or help with smoking cessation are also important.
In individuals who have problemswith
recurrent aspiration, changes in the diet and consideration for feeding tube
placement may be necessary. Regular performance of postural
drainageespecially over the affected lung
segment is usually
beneficial.The
DON’TsDon’t stop your
antibiotics unless advised by your doctor. Do not expect a quick recovery or
complete normalization of the chest x-ray within 3–4 weeks. When to
Call Your Doctor Notify your doctor immediately if you develop a sudden
worsening in chest pain associated with shortness of breath and copious sputum
production or hemoptysis. See your doctor if your
symptomspersist despite completing your
course of antibiotics, or if you experience significant weight loss or
tiredness.Website:www.lungusa.org