What are lung nodules and are they serious?

Generally, the causes of pulmonary nodules may include trauma, chronic bronchitis, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, inflammatory pseudotumor, and others. The severity of a pulmonary nodule varies depending on its nature. Benign pulmonary nodules are usually not serious but require regular follow-up to monitor for changes. Malignant pulmonary nodules may be more severe and require prompt treatment. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical consultation is recommended, along with targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. What causes pulmonary nodules?

1. Trauma

Rib fractures or traumatic injuries may cause damage or rupture of the pulmonary mucosa and even lead to infection, subsequently causing pulmonary nodules. During recovery, it is advisable to avoid oily and irritating foods such as hot pot, chili peppers, ginger, etc.

2. Chronic Bronchitis

Factors such as smoke, dust, and air pollution may irritate the respiratory tract, leading to chronic bronchitis. Continuous inflammation may repeatedly damage and repair bronchial and lung tissues, possibly resulting in abnormal proliferation of lung cells and formation of pulmonary nodules. Symptoms such as long-term coughing, sputum production, and shortness of breath may also occur. Treatment may include medications like salbutamol aerosol, roxithromycin granules, and levofloxacin tablets under the guidance of a professional physician.

3. Tuberculosis

This is a lung disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, which may be related to long-term smoking or inhalation of excessive dust particles. When Mycobacterium tuberculosis invades the lungs, it can damage lung tissue and cause pulmonary nodules, accompanied by symptoms such as low-grade fever, night sweats, weight loss, and dry cough. Treatment may involve medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampin capsules, and ethambutol hydrochloride tablets as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

4. Pneumoconiosis

This refers to lung diseases caused by long-term inhalation of occupational dust such as asbestos and coal dust. Deposition of dust in the lungs leads to fibrotic changes and may result in pulmonary nodules, with symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing. Patients can alleviate symptoms by removing themselves from the dusty environment. Under the guidance of a specialist physician, treatment may involve medications such as acetylcysteine granules, tetrandrine tablets, and pirfenidone capsules.

5. Inflammatory Pseudotumor

This condition may be related to factors such as inflammation, infection, or developmental abnormalities. It refers to a non-neoplastic lesion caused by lung infection or localized chronic inflammation. Under inflammatory action, lung tissue may undergo pathological changes such as necrosis and fibrosis, which can lead to pulmonary nodules. Severe symptoms may also cause coughing, fever, or difficulty breathing. Anti-inflammatory treatment using medications such as methylprednisolone tablets, dexamethasone tablets, and cyclophosphamide compound tablets may be administered under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

2. How serious are pulmonary nodules?

The severity of pulmonary nodules needs to be determined based on their nature. Benign pulmonary nodules may be related to lung inflammation, old injuries, tuberculosis, and other factors. They generally do not pose a significant threat to health and only require regular follow-up and observation.

If a pulmonary nodule is malignant, it may be more serious. Malignant nodules tend to grow rapidly, may invade surrounding tissues, and can even metastasize. Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are necessary for malignant pulmonary nodules to prevent worsening of the condition.

In daily life, maintaining a light diet can reduce irritation and burden on the lungs. It is also important to maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive tension and anxiety.