What're the symptoms of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis?
Progressive cough and shortness of breath are generally initial symptoms and in some patients are the only symptoms that are visible. Symptoms of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis include mild shortness of breath associated with a nonproductive or minimally productive cough, weight loss, and fatigue. Acute symptoms such as fever or progressive shortness of breath suggest a complicating infection. When the alveoli are plugged up, the transfer of oxygen to the blood from the lungs is severely impaired. Consequently, most people with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis experience shortness of breath when they exert themselves. Some have severe difficulty breathing, even at rest. Most also have a cough that does not usually produce sputum unless they are smokers. People often have severe disability from inadequate lung function. Lung infections may quickly worsen symptoms of shortness of breath and produce fever.
More information on pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
All information is intended for reference only. Please consult your physician for accurate medical advices and treatment. Copyright 2005, health-cares.net, all rights reserved. Last update: July 18, 2005
