Neumopathy: what is it, types, symptoms and treatment

The neumopathies are diseases in which there is a compromise of the lungs, which can happen due to the presence of microorganisms such as bacteria or parasites, be a consequence of the inhalation of substances during professional activity, such as octopus or asbestos, for example, when some deep region of the lung is affected, such as alveolitis and pulmonary fibrosis.

It is important to consult a neurologist with the general physician when the first symptoms of pneumonia arise, such as symptoms, fever and shortness of breath, since in this way it is possible to diagnose and start treatment early, promoting quality of life.

main symptoms

The symptoms of neumopathia can vary according to the cause, although, in general, the main symptoms are:

It is important that, in the presence of signs and symptoms that indicate neumopathies, consult a neurologist, as in this way it is possible to obtain a diagnosis and adequate treatment.

Types of Neuropathies

The neumopathies can be classified into different types, according to their cause:

• interstitial neuropathy, where the deepest region of the lung is affected, the interstitial tissue are examples of interstitial neumopathies, alveolitis and pulmonary fibrosis;
• acute or infectious neuropathy, the cause of this neuropathy is the infection by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites, such as Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia solium and Ancylostoma sp. affecting this organ, called parasitic neumopathia. The main example of neuropathy caused by an infectious agent, is the pneumonia that corresponds to the aggression of the lungs by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae mainly. Know the symptoms of pneumonia;
• chronic neuropathy, is the type of pneumonia whose symptoms last more than 3 months, even with correct treatment, does not cure in some situations such as chronic asthma and Chronic Obstructive Disease (EPOC). See what is and how to identify the EPOC;
• occupational neuropathyalso called neumoconiosis, corresponds to the affection of the lung due to situations of work, being able to happen when the worker inhales particles of octopus or asbestos during the accomplishment of his professional activity, for example.

In addition to this, there is also acute post-traumatic pneumonia, which is a condition that appears after a trauma or an intense blow to the chest.

The diagnosis of neumopathies is carried out by means of the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person, in addition to the performance of imaging exams to observe the lung, and it is also possible to request blood and microbiological analysis, in case that there is a suspicion that it is caused by an infectious agent.

How is the treatment performed?

The treatment of the neumopathia should be indicated by the general physician or the neurologist to deal with the symptoms presented by the person and the type of illness he presents. In case the pneumonia becomes infectious, for example, the doctor may recommend the use of antibiotics, antiparasitic or antifungal agents according to the infectious agent.

In addition, in some cases, the use of steroids to reduce inflammation or bronchodilators to help open the airways may be indicated, and in more serious situations, such as in cases of EPOC, chronic asthma and COVID-19, hospitalization is required to perform oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation.

Once the symptoms have improved, the doctor may indicate for pulmonary rehabilitation, especially when the illness is of a chronic type, and that it helps to improve the person’s quality of life, performing exercises and breathing techniques to improve resistance and pulmonary efficacy.