Other possible symptoms of legionnaires' disease include disorientation, vomiting, nausea, mental sluggishness, and mild, temporary amnesia. As soon as legionnaires' disease is suspected, antibiotics should be administered immediately. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the lungs and the inner surface of the chest wall. Pleurisy is characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain that intensifies with breathing. The pain may at times inhibit movement on the affected side.
Breathing is labored.
Treatment involves anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, bed rest, and, in severe cases, a nerve block. Asthma , a grave respiratory disorder affecting millions, is discussed in the chapter on allergies. To learn about lung cancer, turn to Chapter 7. Healthsquare is solely to be used as an informational resource and should never be used to replace contact with your licensed healthcare provider.