A lung infection can be quite a distressing medical condition. Common lung infection symptoms may include difficulty breathing, chest congestion, and back pain. There are several different types of lung infections, including bacterial infections, viral infections, and fungal infections. Treatment will depend on the exact cause of the infection, but some of the more typical treatment options include the use of antibiotics, antiviral medications, or steroid medications.

Bacterial lung infections are relatively common causes of lung inflammation. Symptoms of this type of lung infection frequently include an increased production of mucus, often leading to chest congestion. Some patients may also develop a skin rash or other forms of skin irritation. Treatment for a bacterial lung infection typically involves the use of prescription antibiotics.

Viral lung infections do not respond to antibiotics and typically just need to run their course. There are some antiviral medications that may help to reduce the length of the infection, but there is no actual cure. Common symptoms of a viral lung infection include cough, sore throat, and fever. Ear infections are also common with this type of infection. In severe cases, the affected person may have difficulty breathing and require emergency medical assistance.

Candida lung infections are caused by a fungus and often have the same symptoms as other types of lung infections, including influenza or pneumonia. Some potential symptoms are fatigue and cough, with or without the production of excess mucus. Muscle pain and shortness of breath are also common with this type of lung infection. Anti-fungal medications may be prescribed, although care should be taken, as this type of medication may interact negatively with other medications. In some cases, when the fungus creates a large enough mass to potentially cause a blockage, surgery will be performed to remove this ball of fungus.

Pseudomonas lung infections are technically bacterial infections, but they tend to occur only in patients who are very ill. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the bacteria that causes this type of lung infection, is known as an opportunistic pathogen, meaning that the bacteria normally does not cause illness unless the patient's immune system is already compromised by severe illness. Patients who are hospitalized or are suffering with diseases such as AIDS are the most susceptible to this type of infection. Antibiotics or surgical intervention are typically used to battle pseudomonas lung infections, with successful treatment depending on the overall health of the patient.