What Is Pneumonitis, and How Can It Be Treated?

Question

I recently heard about pneumonitis, but I don’t fully understand what it is or how it differs from pneumonia. Now I’m wondering—what exactly is pneumonitis, and how can it be treated?

From what I understand, pneumonitis is lung inflammation caused by irritants like dust, chemicals, or allergens rather than infections. But how do doctors differentiate it from pneumonia, and what are the key symptoms to watch out for?

I also read that pneumonitis can become chronic if not treated properly, leading to lung scarring or fibrosis. What are the best ways to prevent it from worsening, and does it always require medications like steroids?

Since I prefer natural treatments, I looked into Ayurveda’s perspective on lung health and inflammation. Are there Ayurvedic herbs, breathing techniques, or lifestyle changes that can help manage pneumonitis naturally? I found that Vasaka, Tulsi, and steam inhalation with essential oils are often recommended—do these actually help in reducing lung inflammation and improving breathing?

For those who have experienced pneumonitis, what treatments or lifestyle changes helped the most? Did medications, breathing exercises, or Ayurvedic remedies make the biggest difference? I’d love to hear real experiences on managing pneumonitis naturally.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Pneumonitis is an inflammation of the lungs caused by irritants like dust, chemicals, allergens, or radiation, rather than infections like in pneumonia. Symptoms include shortness of breath, dry cough, and fatigue, which can resemble pneumonia, but fever is usually absent in pneumonitis. Doctors differentiate the two through imaging tests (X-ray, CT scan), lung function tests, and medical history to identify exposure to irritants.

If left untreated, chronic pneumonitis can lead to lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis), making breathing difficult. Treatment depends on the cause but may include avoiding the irritant, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and oxygen therapy in severe cases. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoke and allergens, are key to preventing complications.

In Ayurveda, lung inflammation is linked to imbalances in the Vata and Kapha doshas. Herbs like Vasaka (Malabar nut), Tulsi (Holy Basil), and Mulethi (Licorice) may help reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing. Steam inhalation with eucalyptus or peppermint oil, as well as pranayama breathing exercises, can support lung function naturally. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods and adequate hydration also helps manage symptoms.

What Is Pneumonitis, and How Can It Be Treated? - #15839

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