symptoms of pneumonia in lungs :: Article CreatorHealthy Lungs Signs: 7 Proven Indicators Your Lungs Are Working Just Fine
Signs of healthy lungs: Here are the top 7 indicators that you body may give when your lungs are working just fine! Healthy Lungs Signs: 7 Proven Indicators Your Lungs Are Working Just Fine
Healthy Lungs Signs: Your lungs are working tirelessly to provide oxygen to every cell in your body while expelling carbon dioxide. The health of your lungs directly impacts your energy levels, immune system, and overall quality of life. But how can you tell if your lungs are in excellent condition? A pair of happy, healthy lungs is characterized by easy, unrestricted breathing, high energy levels, and a lack of chronic respiratory symptoms. Understanding the signs of healthy lungs can help you maintain and cherish your respiratory well-being while identifying any potential issues early on.
7 Signs of A Healthy Lungs You Should Know
So, how to know if your lungs are healthy and working just fine? Look out for these 7 indicators that can help you know that you lungs are happy and working perfectly:
Clear Breathing
The ability to breathe comfortably without any issues is one of the clearest signs that your lungs are healthy. Those with good lung health can take deep breaths without wheezing, coughing, or feeling breathless. If you can walk or run without feeling exhausted, that's a strong sign your lungs are functioning well.
No Persistent Cough
A lingering cough could signal underlying lung problems. Generally, healthy lungs don't come with a chronic cough. If your coughing is rare and doesn't stick around for weeks, it means your lungs are likely working well. Regular check-ups can help you catch any changes in your cough promptly.
Normal Oxygen Levels
It's important to keep an eye on your oxygen saturation, which is key to assessing lung health. Healthy lungs usually maintain oxygen levels between 95% and 100%. If your levels drop, it may indicate respiratory issues. Owning a pulse oximeter can help you track your oxygen levels at home, giving you peace of mind about your lung health.
Rare Respiratory Infections
People with healthy lungs are less prone to respiratory illnesses like colds, flu, or pneumonia. If you rarely get sick or recover quickly when you do, it's a sign your lungs are in good shape. Supporting your immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise also helps maintain lung health.
Good Exercise Endurance
If you can stay active without feeling overly tired or breathless, it's another sign of healthy lungs. Being able to carry out daily tasks and exercise without excessive fatigue means your lung function is likely solid. Regular physical activity not only strengthens your lungs but also boosts overall heart health.
Healthy Skin and Nail Color
Your skin and nails can also offer clues about your lung health. A healthy pink color in your lips and nail beds is a good indicator. If you notice a bluish tint, it might mean your oxygen levels are low, suggesting a possible lung issue. Keeping your lungs healthy can improve circulation, which in turn enhances the look of your skin and nails.
No Chest Pain
Chest pain can signify serious health problems, including lung issues. Normally, healthy lungs should not cause any chest discomfort. If you do feel pain in your chest, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional for an evaluation. Regular check-ups can help you catch any potential issues early on.
If you notice any of the above signs and symptoms, take it as an indicator that your lungs are working just fine!
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Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) China: Know Its Causes, Symptoms And Its Treatment
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
"Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which includes other respiratory viruses like RSV. It causes illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia," explained Dr Ugalmugle. HMPV is prevalent worldwide and affects all age groups but is most severe in children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
According to a 2023 study, HMPV was initially identified in children during episodes of bronchiolitis and acute asthma exacerbations, as well as in severe lower respiratory tract infections, particularly among immunocompromised children. In adults, hMPV has been found in flu-like syndromes. Recently, the widespread use of PCR respiratory panels in ICU patients has resulted in more frequent detection of HMPV.
What are the Symptoms of HMPV?
The symptoms of HMPV can differ greatly, depending on the severity of the infection and the person's general health. Here are some signs listed by Dr Ugalmugle:
Common mild symptoms include:
Cough: Often persistent and can range from mild to severe. Runny nose: A common sign of upper respiratory involvement. Nasal congestion: Resulting in difficulty breathing. Sore throat: Often accompanied by discomfort and irritation. In more severe cases, symptoms can escalate to:
Fever: Often present in the initial stages of infection. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing may arise, especially in the elderly and those with pre-existing lung conditions. Wheezing: A sign of narrowing of the airways, often associated with severe respiratory distress. Difficulty breathing: This is a more severe symptom and can indicate a serious infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children and older adults. HMPV is a prevalent infection among adults of all ages. While it is often asymptomatic, it can lead to severe illness in some cases that necessitates hospitalisation, as stated in the JAMA Network
According to studies from North America, it was found that 25-33% of HMPV cases occurred in children with preexisting conditions, including prematurity, cardiopulmonary issues, and immunosuppression.
Also Read: Human Metapneumovirus Detected in China: The Next Health Alert After Coronavirus?
What Causes a Metapneumovirus Infection?
"HMPV infections are caused by exposure to the virus, a microscopic organism that replicates by invading and using the body's cells, which predominantly target the respiratory tract. The virus is spread in several ways, such as droplets, direct contact with an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces," said Dr Ugalmugle.
How is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Transmitted?
HMPV spreads through a variety of mechanisms, making it highly contagious. The virus is most contagious during the initial few days of illness when symptoms peak. The primary modes of transmission include:
Respiratory droplets: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, they release respiratory droplets into the air, which can be inhaled by others. Direct contact: The virus can survive on surfaces for some time, and when a person touches these surfaces and then touches their face, the virus can enter their body. Close contact: Prolonged close contact, such as hugging, kissing, or being in the same room as an infected person, increases the chances of transmission. According to the American Lung Association, HMPV can affect the upper and lower respiratory systems in individuals of all ages. However, it is most commonly observed in young children and the elderly, where it is more likely to lead to conditions like bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
How is HMPV Diagnosed?
To diagnose HMPV, healthcare providers rely on clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Here are some listed by the expert:
Clinical evaluation: The healthcare provider will assess symptoms and review the patient's medical history. If the patient presents with typical respiratory symptoms, HMPV infection may be suspected. Laboratory tests: The most common tests include:a. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This test detects the genetic material of the virus in samples taken from the patient's throat or nose. It is highly accurate and can confirm the presence of HMPV.B. Viral cultures or antigen detection: These methods involve taking a sample from the nasal or throat swabs and growing the virus in the lab to confirm its presence. How is Human Metapneumovirus Treated?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the incubation period is typically between 3-6 days, and the duration of illness can vary based on the severity, but it is generally similar to other viral respiratory infections.
HMPV does not currently have a specific antiviral treatment. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and supporting the patient's recovery. Dr Ugalmugle listed some common treatment strategies as follows:
Rest and hydration: Ensuring the body gets enough rest and fluids is essential for recovery. Medications: Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate fever and pain, while decongestants or saline sprays can relieve nasal congestion. Severe cases: In cases of severe infection, particularly among high-risk individuals, hospitalisation may be required. Oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation may be necessary if breathing becomes severely compromised. How To Protect Yourself From HMPV?
Follow these expert-recommended measures to prevent HMPV:
Make hygiene a priority by regularly washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitiser. Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas to reduce exposure to airborne pathogens. Boost immunity through a balanced diet rich in vitamins, adequate hydration, and regular exercise. Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, and ensure your living spaces are well-ventilated. Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and phones. Stay informed about vaccination schedules and follow healthcare guidelines to strengthen defences. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How serious is Metapneumovirus?
HMPV is generally mild but can be serious in high-risk groups, such as infants, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions. Severe infections can lead to complications like bronchitis or pneumonia.
How long does HMPV last?
Symptoms of HMPV typically last 7-10 days, with some residual symptoms like a cough lingering for a few weeks. Severe cases may take longer to recover, depending on the individual's overall health.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]
What Is 'walking Pneumonia'?
What is 'walking pneumonia'?
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(NewsNation) — Cases of "walking pneumonia" are rising for the first time since the start of the pandemic, with health providers reporting an increase in young children.
Cases began climbing in the spring and peaked in late August, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Diagnoses appear to be rising the most among children, according to diagnosis data from March 31 through October 5, 2024. The percentage grew from 1% to 7.2% among children ages 2 to 4 years and from 3.6% to 7.4% among children ages 5 to 17 years, according to the CDC.
The agency said the increase in babies and toddlers is notable because the infection is historically known to affect school-age more than younger children.
Cases of 'walking pneumonia' are rising across the US
"We've seen a dramatic increase in illness and hospitalization due to Mycoplasma pneumonia," said Dr. Mary Fairchok, a pediatric infectious diseases doctor at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma, Washington, told MedicalExpress. "Adults can get Mycoplasma too, but it's really hitting the pediatric population."
What is "walking pneumonia
Walking pneumonia is a respiratory tract infection caused by the bacterium mycoplasma pneumoniae, according to the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.
It is the common term for atypical or a mild form of pneumonia.
Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes airways to swell, the air sacs in your lungs to fill with mucus and other fluids and a high fever and a cough with mucus, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The main differences between walking pneumonia and the more common pneumonia is that the former is milder and usually doesn't require bed rest or hospitalization, the clinic stated.
The highest rates of walking pneumonia generally occur in school-age children and teens, and people who have weakened immune systems or are recovering from another respiratory infection are at higher risk of severe infection.
What are the symptoms of walking pneumonia?
Symptoms include sore throat, fatigue, chest pain, cough and low-grade fever in adults. The infection doesn't tend to cause much nasal or sinus congestion in adults, the medical center stated.
Walking pneumonia can feel like a bad cold or the flu.
Children under 5 may experience symptoms other than a chest cold, including nasal congestion, sneezing, and watery eyes or gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, according to the CDC.
What is 'walking pneumonia,' and why are cases rising?
The infection is highly contagious and spreads through droplets in the air through coughing and sneezing. It can take up to three to four weeks from the time someone was exposed to the germ to the time that they're feeling sick.
Walking pneumonia may last from four to six weeks. A cough is usually the longest-lasting walking pneumonia symptom, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
How to test for walking pneumonia?
Medical professionals can test for walking pneumonia with a nose swab similar to the COVID-19 test, the Cleveland Clinic stated.
They could also order chest X-rays to see if there's an infection in the lungs. Providers can also do a blood test and send the sample to a laboratory to confirm the infection.
How to treat walking pneumonia
The infection, like most, can be treated with antibiotics. Hospitalization is generally rare with this infection.
Most people can recover on their own, but over-the-counter medicine can help ease symptoms.
Why are cases rising?
The infection has risen to levels unseen since the pandemic.
The reason why it dropped since 2020 is because of infection prevention measures that went into place, like social distancing and masking, reported Johns Hopkins.
"In North America, we began to detect M. Pneumoniae more frequently on tests in 2024. Since the summer, the proportion of tests that are positive for M. Pneumoniae has gone up and is still going up right now," the organization stated.
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