Why do pneumonia patients have snoring sounds when breathing during sleep, and what should be done about it?

Jan 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingli
Introduction
In general, pneumonia patients may experience snoring or noisy breathing during sleep due to factors such as excessive fatigue, bronchial involvement from inflammation, airway obstruction, pleural effusion, or extensive lung lesions, which require targeted management. If any of these conditions are present, it is recommended to consult a doctor for evaluation. Pneumonia patients are advised to maintain a light diet, drink plenty of fluids, and engage in moderate exercise to aid recovery.

Generally, snoring during sleep in patients with pneumonia may be caused by factors such as excessive fatigue, bronchial involvement due to inflammation, airway obstruction, pleural effusion, or extensive lung lesions, requiring targeted management. If any of these conditions are present, it is advisable to consult a doctor for evaluation. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Excessive Fatigue

Excessive fatigue in patients with pneumonia may lead to muscle fatigue and relaxation, including muscles in the throat and those involved in breathing. This can reduce airway tone, resulting in snoring during sleep. Patients should ensure adequate rest and avoid overexertion that may worsen physical discomfort.

2. Inflammation Involving the Bronchi

The inflammatory response in pneumonia may extend to the bronchi, causing airway narrowing and congestion. This increases resistance during breathing and may lead to snoring. Medications such as azithromycin tablets, cefaclor tablets, or cefadroxil capsules may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

3. Airway Obstruction

Airway obstruction may occur due to blockage by secretions, mucus, or other substances, disrupting normal airflow. When air passes through narrowed passages, snoring sounds may result. Treatment options include ambroxol hydrochloride tablets, acetylcysteine capsules, or procaterol hydrochloride oral solution, as recommended by a physician.

4. Pleural Effusion

As pneumonia progresses, it may involve the pleural cavity, leading to pleural effusion. If the fluid accumulation is significant, it may compress the lungs, causing symptoms such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. Medical treatment may include thoracentesis or intercostal drainage tube placement to remove the fluid.

5. Extensive Lesions

When pneumonia affects a large area of the lungs, it may significantly impair lung function, leading to various respiratory symptoms such as chest pain, wheezing, and coughing. Medications such as roxithromycin tablets, cephalexin for oral suspension, or clindamycin hydrochloride tablets may be used under medical supervision to relieve symptoms.

Pneumonia patients are advised to maintain a light diet, drink plenty of fluids, and engage in moderate exercise to support recovery.