Gary Hunninghake on Symptoms of Viral Lung

DiseasesBy:Mikael V. Seamans

Gary Hunninghake served as Professor of Medicine at the University of Iowa College of Medicine for more than

25 years. Dr. Hunninghake describes two viral lung diseases, pneumonia and bronchiolitis.By:Mikael V. Seamans

When viruses attack the lungs and cause inflammation, it can lead to pneumonia. Viral pneumonia is

characterized by a cough, phlegm, difficulty breathing, exhaustion, and fever. Viral pneumonia compromises

your immune system and can usher in bacterial pneumonia, which is typically more severe. If fluid

begins to accumulate in your lungs, it could require surgical drainage by a doctor.By:Mikael V. Seamans

Bronchiolitis is more common in babies and young children and is caused by the flu virus or the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Its symptoms may present very mildly (runny nose, for example) and then worsen to include difficulty breathing and wheezing. In some

cases, patients need to be treated with an IV or with oxygen if they become severely dehydrated and show

low levels of oxygen in their blood. Most cases of bronchiolitis clear up within a couple of weeks.By:Mikael V. Seamans

Speak to your health care provider if you have concerns about viral lung diseases.

By:Mikael V. Seamans