There are several factors that may lead to pneumonia with chest pain, among the most major of which is an infection. Viral and bacterial infections affecting the upper respiratory system may cause pneumonia, and if it's severe, the pain can be serious. Pneumonia may also be caused by medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis. Chronic bronchitis can cause chest pain, and if left untreated, it may lead to pneumonia. Lung cancer is another disease that commonly causes both.
Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF) may be at higher risk for developing recurrent pneumonia and chest pain. CF is a disease that affects the lining of the lungs, which produce excessive mucus. Sufferers typically cough a great deal, and the build up of mucus in the airways and lungs may lead to pneumonia. Patients with cystic fibrosis typically undergo routine therapy to help control flare ups.
People suffering from viral illnesses, like influenza or acute bronchitis, may also get pneumonia with chest pain. If both lungs become inflamed, the condition is referred to as double pneumonia. In severe cases, one or both lungs may collapse, putting the patient's life at risk. Chest pain is a major symptom of pneumonia, but it may not always be present.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may cause complications of pneumonia. Chest pain may be another symptom, as are extreme shortness of breath and decreased function of the lungs. COPD is often linked to cigarette smoking.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) often leads to pneumonia with chest pain. Patients suffering from symptoms of AIDS generally have compromised or suppressed immunity, which causes bacterial and viral infections to become more virulent. Patients who test positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) may contract pneumonia even without developing full blown AIDS.
Anthrax, which is caused by a bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis, kills a high percentage of people who contract this infectious disease. It is typically caused by handling secretions of infected animals or meat products that have been tainted. People who inhale the bacteria often develop chest pain, pneumonia, and high fever.
Avian flu, commonly known as bird flu, is an influenza-type virus spread by wild birds. Humans who come in contact with the disease typically develop pneumonia. Some individuals may also experience chest pain and fever. This disease in not prevalent in the United States, affecting humans primarily in east Asian countries.