Lung Abscess
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
What is a lung abscess?
A lung abscess is a pus-filled area in your lung tissue that is caused by a bacterial infection. A lung abscess can form after you accidentally inhale food or liquid into your lungs. A mouth infection, a weak immune system, or heart problems may increase your risk for a lung abscess. A severe lung abscess may spread and become life-threatening.
What are the signs and symptoms of a lung abscess?
- Productive cough
- Fever, chills, or night sweats
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
How is a lung abscess diagnosed?
- Blood tests may show which type of bacteria is in your lung. This will help your healthcare provider know which type of medicine to use to treat your lung abscess.
- An x-ray, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan may be used to show the location of your lung abscess. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about these or other tests you may need.
How is a lung abscess treated?
- Medicines will be used to treat a bacterial infection.
- Chest physiotherapy is treatment to clear fluid from your lung and increase blood flow. A healthcare provider will tap on your chest and back to help loosen fluid in your lungs. The provider will place you in different positions to exercise your lung and drain the fluid. This will help you cough out excess fluid from your lung so it can heal.
- Percutaneous drainage is a procedure to remove excess fluid from your lung through a catheter. Your healthcare provider will use an ultrasound to insert the catheter through your skin and into your lung.
How can I manage my symptoms?
Limit activity as directed. Ask your healthcare provider when it is okay to return to your normal activities.
What can I do to prevent the spread of germs?
- Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times each day. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water every time. Rub your soapy hands together, lacing your fingers. Wash the front and back of your hands, and in between your fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the fingernails of the other hand. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Rinse with warm, running water. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available.
- Cover a sneeze or cough. Use a tissue that covers your mouth and nose. Throw the tissue away in a trash can right away. Use the bend of your arm if a tissue is not available. Wash your hands well with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
- Stay away from others while you are sick. Avoid crowds as much as possible.
- Ask about vaccines you may need. Your healthcare provider can tell you if you should also get vaccines not listed below:
- Ask your healthcare provider about the flu and pneumonia vaccines. All adults should get the flu (influenza) vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually in September or October. The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 50 or older to prevent pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia. Adults aged 19 to 49 years who are at high risk for pneumococcal disease should also receive the vaccine. You may need 1 dose or 2. The number depends on the vaccine used and your risk factors.
- COVID-19 vaccines are given to adults as a shot. At least 1 dose of an updated vaccine is recommended for all adults. COVID-19 vaccines are updated throughout the year. Adults 65 or older need a second dose of updated vaccine at least 4 months after the first dose. Your healthcare provider can help you schedule all needed doses as updated vaccines become available.
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Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have sudden shortness of breath.
- You have sudden sharp chest pain, especially when you breathe or cough.
- You cough up blood.
When should I call my doctor?
- You have a fever or night sweats.
- You have new or worsening symptoms.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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