What are the Causes of Alveolitis?
- Alveolitis is an inflammatory condition of the lungs. Inhaling chemical-laden dust particles in an industrial setting is a primary cause. Alveolitis can also be caused by inhaling fungal, bacterial and other naturally occurring spores. An immediate reaction to the dust or spores is possible. Other times, symptoms may appear only after prolonged exposure to the irritant. Immediate reactions are typically accompanied by a fever, while chronic alveolitis is associated with changes in the lungs over a period of years. Prolonged alveolitis leads to more serious lung diseases in some people.
- The types of alveolitis not associated with industrial settings and instead linked to naturally occurring fungi and bacteria are commonly known as farmer's lung and bird fancier's lung. As you would expect farmer's lung is associated with those working in agriculture. Bird fancier's lung is linked to exposure to avian antigens. Some contract bird fancier's lung through the birds they keep as house pets.
- People who acquire alveolitis of the lungs due to short-term exposure to an irritant may experience coughing, flulike symptoms and occasionally pneumonia. The lungs will return to their normal state after exposure exposure to the irritant ends. Those with the chronic form of the condition will develop a serious cough and changes to their lung tissue. The afflicted person can lose weight and get weaker over time.
- Those suffering from farmer's lung alveolitis are generally able to make a full recovery once removed from the irritant causing their affliction. They may have long-term issues with obstructed airways and emphysema-like symptoms. However, those with bird fancier's alveolitis have a lower rate of recovery. That is because the avian antigens may remain in the immediate environment long after the birds themselves are removed. Bird fancier's alveolitis may lead to death it its most serious forms.
- Alveolitis of the jaw sockets is a condition unrelated to alveolitis of the lungs. It is commonly referred to as dry socket. Alveolitis of the jaw occurs when teeth are removed and the socket area becomes inflamed. This form of alveolitis is painful. However it is temporary and not as serious as alveolitis of the lungs
