About Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic
What is Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic is a type of lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled substances. It is also known as hypersensitivity pneumonitis or extrinsic allergic alveolitis. Symptoms of this condition include shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, and fatigue. Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen and taking medications to reduce inflammation.
What are the symptoms of Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
The symptoms of extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) include:
-Shortness of breath
-Coughing
-Wheezing
-Chest tightness
-Fever
-Fatigue
-Weight loss
-Muscle aches
-Joint pain
-Itchy skin
-Nasal congestion
-Nasal discharge
-Sneezing
-Runny nose
-Eye irritation
-Headache
What are the causes of Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
1. Inhalation of allergens such as dust, molds, pollens, animal dander, and certain chemicals.
2. Ingestion of certain medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, and ibuprofen.
3. Exposure to certain occupational hazards, such as wood dust, metal fumes, and certain chemicals.
4. Infection with certain viruses, such as the herpes simplex virus.
5. Exposure to certain environmental pollutants, such as cigarette smoke and air pollution.
What are the treatments for Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
1. Avoidance of the allergen: The most important treatment for extrinsic allergic alveolitis is to avoid the allergen that is causing the reaction. This may involve avoiding certain activities, such as working with animals or in dusty environments, or avoiding certain foods.
2. Medications: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and help control symptoms. Other medications, such as bronchodilators, may be prescribed to help open the airways and make breathing easier.
3. Oxygen therapy: Oxygen therapy may be used to help increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and reduce the strain on the lungs.
4. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or to repair damaged airways.
5. Immun
What are the risk factors for Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
The risk factors for extrinsic allergic alveolitis include:
1. Exposure to organic dusts, such as those found in farming, grain storage, and bird droppings.
2. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as isocyanates, epoxy resins, and formaldehyde.
3. Exposure to certain metals, such as aluminum, chromium, and nickel.
4. Exposure to certain drugs, such as penicillin and sulfonamides.
5. Exposure to certain molds, such as Aspergillus fumigatus.
6. Smoking.
7. A family history of allergic diseases, such as asthma or hay fever.
Is there a cure/medications for Alveolitis, Extrinsic Allergic?
Yes, there are treatments available for extrinsic allergic alveolitis. Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen that is causing the reaction, as well as taking medications such as corticosteroids, antihistamines, and bronchodilators to reduce inflammation and symptoms. In some cases, immunotherapy may be recommended to help reduce the body's sensitivity to the allergen.