Can a respiratory infection cause lung damage in older males?

Question

Hello doctor,

My dad is 57 and has been struggling to catch his breath for the past few days, experiencing significant shortness of breath even while sitting. He also has a persistent chest pain that is not going away. I took him to the ER, and they mentioned it could be viral, but did not provide many details. He has had mild asthma in the past, but nothing like this. Now, I am worried. He is not coughing much, but his oxygen levels dropped to 87 once. The doctor mentioned HMPV as a possible cause, but I am not familiar with it. They gave him a nebulizer and steroids, but he looked so exhausted. Do you know what tests we should consider or medications that could help? Should we be concerned about potential long-term damage from this condition?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am sorry to hear about his condition. HMPV (human metapneumovirus) is similar to COVID-19 and can be more severe in elderly patients or those with a history of asthma. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and sore throat.

Investigation:

HMPV ELISA (human metapneumovirus enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test.
Rapid diagnostic test (RDT).
Chest CT (computed tomography) scan.

Treatment:

If his oxygen levels are dropping, he should be on oxygen.
Supportive care.
Ribavirin can be used if available.
ICU care may be necessary for severe cases.

Please make sure to wear a face mask around him and wash your hands regularly. Long-term complications have not been documented in research.

Possible causes:

Respiratory droplets.
Contact with infected individuals.
Outbreaks.

Differential Diagnosis:

Bronchiolitis (an inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, commonly caused by viral infections like RSV).

I hope this information helps you.

Please feel free to contact, incase of further doubts.

Thank you.