Alcoholic Lung Disease: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, And More

Heavy, long-term alcohol use doesn’t just damage your liver, it can also seriously harm your lungs. Many people don’t realize that chronic drinking weakens the respiratory system and makes you more vulnerable to dangerous lung infections and breathing problems. Your lungs play a critical role in keeping you alive by delivering oxygen to your blood and removing carbon dioxide, so any damage to them can have serious consequences for your overall health.

Healthcare providers use the term “alcoholic lung disease” to describe a range of lung conditions and complications that can develop in people with alcohol addiction. These conditions can range from increased susceptibility to pneumonia and other infections to more severe problems like acute respiratory distress syndrome.

What Is Alcoholic Lung Disease?

Alcoholic lung disease is an umbrella term that covers the various lung problems caused by repeated alcohol use. Over time, alcohol abuse affects the body’s immune system and central nervous system, putting the person at a higher risk of disease. Related to the lungs, this can include inflammation, infections, asthma, and more. In severe cases, alcoholic lung disease can be fatal.

The effects of alcohol may also lead to respiratory depression or impair saliva production, which can contribute to a risk of infection and lung damage.

Symptoms Of Alcoholic Lung Diseases

There are different symptoms of alcoholic lung disease depending on which particular complications the person is experiencing.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Heavy drinking puts people at an increased risk of catching severe pneumonia.

Common symptoms of pneumonia include:

• cough that won’t go away
• green, yellow, or bloody mucus
• difficulty taking full breaths
• chest pain
• fatigue
• fevers and chills
• sweating
• low body temperature
• stomach aches

There is more than one type of pneumonia, but they have fairly similar symptoms across the board.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a respiratory virus that’s common in people with weakened immune systems. It produces cold or flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, it can develop into pneumonia.

Signs of RSV include:

• wheezing cough
• runny nose
• sore throat
• headaches
• shortness of breath
• fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by airborne particles. TB has the potential to be fatal among people with lowered immune function.

TB signs and symptoms include:

• long-lasting cough
• weight loss
• fevers
• chills or sweating
• excessive mucus, sometimes bloody
• fatigue
• swelling

People with alcohol use disorders have a higher risk factor for catching TB and may experience more severe symptoms.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

ARDS is a severe, often life-threatening acute lung injury that can arise from lung infections, sepsis, a build-up of fluid in the lungs, and other traumas. If you or your loved one experiences any of the symptoms below, seek healthcare immediately. The mortality rate for ARDS is higher among people who drink heavily.

Side effects and signs of ARDS include:

• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• elevated heart rate
• low blood oxygen
• chest pain
• rattling sounds when breathing
• discoloration around lips or nails

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes the airways to expand, leading to pulmonary obstruction and impaired lung function. Some alcoholic drinks contain histamines, which may cause symptoms of asthma.

Signs of an asthma attack include difficulty taking full breaths, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing.

Symptoms Of An Alcohol Use Disorder

If you are concerned that you or someone you love is experiencing alcohol addiction, there are a few key signs you can look for.

Signs of alcohol addiction include:

• trying and failing to quit drinking
• poor performance at work or school
• withdrawing from loved ones
• lack of interest in hobbies and activities
• drinking alcohol in unsafe situations
• needing to increase alcohol intake to feel the same effects
• experiencing withdrawal symptoms or strong cravings
• financial difficulties due to excessive alcohol use
• spending excessive amounts of time drinking or acquiring alcohol

If a person exhibits five or more of the above symptoms, they meet the qualifications for a chronic alcohol use disorder.

Treatment For Alcoholic Lung Disease

One of the most important steps to stop the progression of alcoholic lung disease is to quit drinking and seek professional addiction treatment. Getting help early can significantly lower your risk of developing serious, life-threatening lung complications caused by alcohol abuse.

Treatment options that can help you or your loved one achieve sobriety include:

• medical detox programs to safely manage withdrawal symptoms
• inpatient treatment for intensive, around-the-clock care and support
• outpatient rehab programs for flexible treatment while maintaining daily responsibilities
• ongoing therapy and counseling to address the root causes of alcohol addiction

While some symptoms and damage from alcoholic lung disease can be treated and even reversed, the success of treatment depends heavily on how advanced the condition is when you seek help. The earlier you catch lung problems and stop drinking, the better your chances of recovery. It’s vital to seek medical care as soon as any respiratory symptoms or health problems arise to give yourself the best possible outcome.

Written by the Addiction Resource Editorial Staff