Ailments & Conditions

Lung Abscess: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment

Causes of Primary Lung Abscess

A primary lung abscess is caused by a lung infection. The main risk factor is alcohol use disorder, which makes people more prone. Those with this disorder typically have changed consciousness levels and bouts of vomiting. As a result, they are more likely to inhale bacteria and stomach contents into the lungs, which increases the risk of an infection. Consuming too much alcohol may also weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to an infection. Another possible cause of a lung abscess is pneumonia, especially a form called aspiration pneumonia. This is an infectious disease that occurs when you inhale sinuses, stomach secretions, or food into the lungs. [4]