Consolidation’ is a term that generally is associated with the lungs and describes the filling of the lungs with liquids that replace the normally present air pockets. So in a respiratory condition like pulmonary consolidation, the liquid in the form of water, pus or even blood occupies spaces in either of the lungs or both sides. The affected area of the chest can be easily located via an air bronchogram where the radiolucent (black) branching structures indicate the presence of air and a white image represents airless areas that have been occupied by fluid that is radio-opaque, during the lung consolidation. This helps localize the area that has been affected and needs treatment.
Normally, in pulmonary consolidation, the affected part is confined to one lobe and hence is also known as lobar pneumonia. It is nothing but the solidification of the otherwise soft and spongy air-filled lungs due to exterior influence of foreign infectious substances attacking the lung tissue. It gives rise to a swollen and hardened texture of lungs and poses difficulty in breathing. Signs and symptoms of this disease are pretty prominent and can easily be detected. It is followed by discouraged expansion of the thorax during inspiration. Cough originates causing much blockage in the breathing process. There is consequent chest pain and may even lead to fever. Other symptoms include night sweats, fatigue, red colored sputum is generated. Dullness or percussion occurs in the affected area. A characteristic crackling sound is heard through the stethoscope when held against the chest.
Causes of Pulmonary Consolidation:
Microbial infections of bacteria like streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) or klebsiella or staphylococcus.
Viral infection like influenza
Fungal infection
Irritation by worms
Accidental consumption of kerosene especially in infants
Dust particles or foreign body gaining entry through the respiratory tract
Inhalation of poisonous or toxic gas
Fluid transudation of pulmonary edema into the lungs caused originally by cardiac failure, renal failure or hepatic failure.
Other respiratory disorders and causes like bronchopneumonia tuberculosis, Acute Respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary hemorrhage and pulmonary eosinophilia.
Oxygen toxicity
Inhalation of toxic fumes
Infiltration of lymphoma or alveolar cell carcinoma
Treatment for Pulmonary Consolidation:
Vaccination and maintaining general hygiene are some ways to prevent the occurrence of this lobar pneumonia.
Once affected, the patient needs immense rest and care.
A controlled diet should be followed to improve immunity.
Lime juice mixed with honey helps in eradicating the mucus in the lungs.
Fenugreek tea is good to enhance perspiration by increase in the body temperature and expel the overall toxicity.
Another remedy to remove the mucus is consuming a mixture of sesame seed with a pinch of salt and 2 teaspoon of honey.
Carrot juice and spinach juice can also be given to the patient.
If the condition is severe, the patient needs to be admitted in the hospital and should be provided with oxygen supply.
The patient can use a breathing machine for ease of breathing.
Doctor recommended breathing treatments and intravenous antibiotics can ease the discomfort.
Timely measures can help reduce the instance of severe pneumonia which in some cases may prove to be fatal.