What Is Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis?

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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When we inhale air, the oxygen in the air is absorbed by the blood in the lungs. This is achieved with help from delicate tissues that allow oxygen molecules to pass through. Small sacs known as alveoli line the lungs’ inner lining, and these sacs help to increase the lungs’ surface area, thus increasing absorption.

If the lining of the lungs was to become inflamed for any reason, then the lungs will become less efficient at absorbing oxygen. This can be caused by a number of things, such as infections, injury, and allergic reactions. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an example caused by an allergic reaction, and it can be serious in some cases.

1. Allergies

Particles that can cause allergies are all around us. Many of us are fortunate to have no allergies, meaning the presence of such particles won’t affect us. For others, there is always the risk of coming into contact with something that can be irritating to them, or even dangerous in some cases.

Some people are allergic to certain particles in dust, which can cause problems for them in different ways. These particles can sometimes be inhaled into the lungs in quantities so small that they don’t bother most people. For people that have an allergy to them, however, these particles can cause considerable discomfort.