Overview

A healthcare provider can diagnose pneumonitis. They’ll examine your symptoms, review your medical history and conduct a physical examination. During the physical exam, they’ll listen to your lungs with a stethoscope (auscultation). They’ll also order tests to help confirm their diagnosis.

What tests will be done to diagnose pneumonitis?

To help confirm pneumonitis, a healthcare provider may order the following tests:

  • Allergy blood test. The provider will use a tiny needle to take a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. They’ll then send your sample to a lab to see if your blood reacts to specific allergens.
  • Bronchoscopy. The provider will give you a sedative to help you relax. They’ll then insert a thin, bendable tool with a camera at the end (bronchoscope) into your mouth or nose down into your lungs.
  • Imaging tests. Imaging tests are painless, noninvasive tests that help a provider take a closer look at your lungs. They may order a chest X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan.
  • Lung biopsy. Your provider will surgically remove small amounts of tissue from different areas of your lung.
  • Pulmonary function tests. Pulmonary function tests measure how many breaths you take in a minute (respiratory rate) and how much air goes into and out of your lungs.
  • Pulse oximetry (Pulse ox). Pulse oximetry uses a device on your finger to measure how much oxygen is in your blood.
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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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