Overview
Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia, which is an inflammation of the lungs usually caused by a bacterial infection called legionella. It is contracted by inhaling the bacteria from water or soil. Older adults, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to the disease. Symptoms typically develop two to ten days after exposure and may include headache, muscle aches, fever of 104 F (40 C) or higher. Pontiac fever is a milder illness caused by the same bacterium, resembling the flu and usually lasting for two to five days. Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually cures Legionnaires' disease, but some people may experience ongoing issues after treatment. If you suspect you've been exposed to legionella bacteria, it is important to see a doctor for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications, especially for those at high risk.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include headache, muscle aches, fever above 104 F (40 C), pneumonia, fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, skin or soft-tissue infection, and swelling, warmth, or redness in the area of the infection.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing Legionnaires' disease include:
- Smoking, as it damages the lungs and makes a person more susceptible to all types of lung infections.
- Having a weakened immune system, which can result from conditions such as HIV/AIDS or certain medications, including corticosteroids and drugs taken to prevent organ rejection after a transplant.
- Having a chronic lung disease or other serious condition, including emphysema, diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer.
- Being 50 years of age or older.
- Exposure to sources where the bacteria can multiply, such as cooling towers in air conditioning systems, hot water tanks and heaters, decorative fountains, swimming pools, and drinking water. In addition to these risk factors, people can contract Legionnaires' disease through aspiration, which occurs when liquids accidentally enter the lungs, or from contact with contaminated soil.
Development
Legionnaires' disease is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also cause infections in other parts of the body, including the heart. The infection is usually contracted by inhaling microscopic water droplets containing the bacteria. Large buildings with complex water systems are a common source of outbreaks, as the bacteria can multiply and spread more easily in these environments. Factors that increase the risk of developing Legionnaires' disease include being over 50 years old, having a weakened immune system, having a chronic lung disease or other serious condition, and smoking. While Pontiac fever is a milder illness caused by the same bacterium, it usually resolves on its own without any specific treatment.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you think you or someone you know has been exposed to legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaires' disease. Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include headache, muscle aches, fever of 104 F (40 C) or higher, and other respiratory issues. If you suspect Legionnaires' disease, it is essential to receive prompt medical attention, especially if you are an older adult, a smoker, or have a weakened immune system. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can help shorten the recovery period and prevent serious complications.
Diagnosis
To diagnose Legionnaires' disease, doctors typically use a combination of tests, including urine tests for legionella antigens, chest X-rays to assess the extent of infection, and tests on sputum or lung tissue samples. Blood tests may also be performed to help identify the presence of legionella bacteria.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of Legionnaires' disease include respiratory failure, where the lungs cannot provide adequate oxygen to the body or remove enough carbon dioxide, as well as infections in wounds and other parts of the body, including the heart. Legionnaires' disease can also lead to sepsis, a severe bloodstream infection that can cause organ failure, and can be life-threatening. Additionally, some people may experience ongoing issues after treatment, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, or persistent cough.
Home Remedies
It is important to seek medical attention and follow the advice of healthcare professionals for Legionnaires' disease.
Treatment
To treat Legionnaires' disease, antibiotics are used. The sooner therapy is started, the less likely the chance of developing serious complications. Treatment typically requires hospitalization. Antibiotics that may be used include gentamicin, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and chloramphenicol.