Diseases, endocrinologists. MRI
Site search

Scars on the lungs after pneumonia. Causes of scars on the lungs

Where do scars come from? What are they? Are there effective methods to make them less noticeable?

Scarring

Scars are characteristic changes in the skin that appear as a result of its damage and subsequent gradual regeneration. The color of scars is associated with the stage of skin restoration. Therefore, scars can take on a color ranging from red-pink to pale pink. The shape of scars is closely related to the cause of their occurrence. In this regard, oblong, round and irregularly shaped scars are observed.

Where do scars come from - the causes of scars

A scar is formed as a result of damage to the top layer of skin (called the epidermis), along with the layer below (called the dermis). Damage to the dermis stimulates fibrous tissue to fill the defect. This complex process of regeneration of the epidermis resulting in the formation of a scar is called scarring. Scarring is natural process necessary for skin restoration. A number of cells participate in this process along with the so-called mediators (substances that stimulate all kinds of reactions in the body). This is how scars are formed.

The main causes of scar formation are: trauma, surgery and damage caused by acne and other inflammatory processes of the skin. Scars are also called skin changes arising after burns. This type of scar is significantly different from others.

Wound healing - scarring

The process of scar formation consists of several phases. In the first phase (the so-called inflammation phase), tissue damage occurs, hyperemia appears and permeability increases blood vessels(24-48 hours). The second phase, the so-called limited inflammation phase, is the period during which the wound cleanses (seven days). The next phase, called the healing phase, is the actual scarring. At this stage, scar formation processes occur due to the formation of fibrous tissue. The last phase of wound healing is the scar reorganization phase, which can last from a few to more than ten months.

Scars - what types are there?

No two scars are the same; every scar is different. Despite this there is general classification scars:

  • atrophic (in the case when the scar is “retracted”, for example, after smallpox or acne),
  • hypertrophic (usually occur after burns),
  • keloid scars (protruding above the surface of the skin, sometimes painful, formed after operations and injuries),
  • scar contractures (appear on flexion surfaces, which can also be caused by burns),
  • scar stretch marks (flat, pale in color).

What do scars look like?

It is known that each scar takes on an individual shape. Therefore, postoperative scars look completely different and scars that appear at the site of acne and skin cuts look completely different. Scars can be flat and almost invisible, or protruding above the surface of the skin and very noticeable (so-called hypertrophic scars, formed as a result of increased regenerative activity of connective tissue). The first can be camouflaged very easily, while the others are very difficult to hide.

Can scars form on any part of the skin?

Yes. Scars can form in any location, regardless of how hard or soft the skin is. They can appear on the face (acne scars), on the extremities (arms and palms) and on the torso.

What are the risk factors for scarring?

It seems that we have no influence on whether another scar will appear on our body or not. However, there are certain risk factors that increase this likelihood. One of the first factors that needs to be addressed is the method of treating the wound. Scratching, cutting, tearing off the scab until it spontaneously falls off are the main reasons that prevent proper healing and contribute to the formation of more noticeable scar.
In the case of acne scars, the above actions are further aggravated by the habit of “squeezing” the acne. This provokes the occurrence of deeper wounds, the spread of infection and increased inflammatory reaction skin.

Factors that predispose the formation of scar tissue, which we cannot influence, include: dark skin, improperly applied postoperative suture, as well as genetic predisposition.

Why is the color of the scar different from the color of the skin?

Knowing the mechanisms of scar formation, you can easily understand why the “new skin” has a slightly different color. The fibrous tissue that replaces the lost or damaged area of ​​skin does not contain natural skin pigment (dye).

Why doesn't hair grow in the scar area?

Lack of hair is associated with a lack of hair follicles in fibrous tissue that replaces damaged skin.

Can a scar hurt?

Yes. The area where the scar is located may hurt, itch, and even contractures may appear. Over time, however, these symptoms disappear.

Can scar tissue tan?

No. Scars should not be exposed to direct sunlight. It is known that UV rays can damage the skin. In addition, UV rays clearly influence the development of skin diseases, including neoplasms. Therefore, it is necessary to apply creams with UV filters both to healthy skin and to areas with scars. It must be remembered that the skin in the scar area does not have a natural pigment (due to which healthy skin gets a tan), so you can’t hope that tanning will make the scar less noticeable. In this case we will get reverse effect, and in addition we will expose the “new skin” to the damaging effects of UV rays and provoke tumor processes in organism.

Postoperative scars (arising after operations)

A postoperative scar, as the name suggests, occurs as a result of tissue damage caused by surgical intervention. Due to big amount Various operations are performed, there is a wide variety of postoperative scars. Postoperative scars can be deep or superficial, regular oblong or irregular in shape.

How to eliminate scars?

Scar removal is very popular now. Surgical procedures aimed at reducing the visibility of scars (plastic surgery) and laser methods. In addition, various cosmetic procedures can be used, including microdermabrasion, peeling, or layering. special drugs for the treatment of scars.

What composition should a drug have to effectively treat scars?

With so many scar treatments available, the choice is certainly difficult. It is necessary to know which components of the drug are actually capable of reducing the scar. Remedies with proven effectiveness in treating scars include:

  • Onion extract (Allii capae bulbus extractum). Reduces the visibility of scars, affecting their color. In addition, it makes the scar more tender. The bactericidal effect of onion extract accelerates the long-term phase of wound healing (that is, the phase of limited inflammation). In addition, onions have the ability to dissolve blood clots, due to which the scar fades faster.
  • Allantoin. The substance has a softening, anti-inflammatory and astringent effect. All of these properties lead to accelerated wound healing and epidermal regeneration.
  • Heparin in salt form (Heparin sodium). Heparin is a substance also used in the treatment varicose veins veins Has an anti-edematous effect. Interestingly, when administered intravenously or subcutaneously, it exhibits anticoagulation properties.

Which drug to choose for the treatment of scars?

When choosing a drug for the treatment of scars, it is necessary, first of all, to analyze its composition. It is preferable that the product contains at least two components with proven effectiveness in reducing the appearance of scars. The richer the composition of a cosmetic product, the better.

Alcepalan – concentrated gel for the treatment of scars

Alcepalan is a cosmetic product intended for individuals who want to make their scars or stretch marks (striae) less noticeable. Thanks to the substances it contains (onion extract, allantoin, heparin), it is invaluable in caring for skin with scarring. As already mentioned, the effectiveness of drugs for the treatment of scars is greater, the richer the composition this drug. In the case of Alcepalan gel, there is no doubt about its effectiveness, since it is characterized by a rich composition.

When to use Alcepalan gel?

The use of Alcepalan gel should be started as soon as possible after the appearance of scars. When using Alcepalan gel, recovery is possible natural look skin for scars caused by acne, ulcers, boils, as well as surgical operations, burns, stretch marks and skin injuries.

How to use Alcepalan gel?
Alcepalan gel must be used regularly, preferably in the morning and evening. For the gel to be effective, it is necessary to rub it into the scar with light massaging movements until the cosmetic product is completely absorbed. Alcepalan gel should be applied only to a completely healed wound.

When can we expect the first results?

With systematic use of Alcepalan gel, the first visible effects of treatment can be expected after two or three months.

http://www.herbapol.ru

))) Congratulations)) how detailed everything is))))

And we are also catching up with you)

On the 16th I was given a plan for the 18th (Wednesday). But on the evening of the 16th I started having contractions, and they were slightly different than last time)))

I sensed that it was starting, but just in case I decided not to rush to conclusions, I asked for an injection of papaverine, and when it didn’t help, I realized that it would soon)))

There was periodicity, but still with large intervals, tried to sleep, but felt contractions in my sleep. Well, I really didn’t want to give birth with the team on duty at night (last time, I also had to give birth with the team on duty, because contractions started on the weekend, and there was a terrible ECS, and the recovery was the same as you write, so the fears were quite understandable)

At 4 I finally woke up, because... contractions became more frequent, it was no longer possible to sleep, and I asked (not knowing who) that time would pass quickly and my doctor would come)))

At 6:30 on the 17th I called the doctor on duty, she looked, and there was no pain. We agreed to wait for my doctor (she arrives at 7:30). After the examination, the plug came out))) I managed to take a shower, then my doctor looked at me, and said, has the water been leaking for a long time? (damn, everything is the same as last time))))) And I answered that I might not have noticed in my heart, but it didn’t seem to be. (the doctor on duty 100% did not puncture the bladder, but said it was low).

In general, the bubble burst on its own, mine only slightly ruptured the membranes in order to drain more water) And I got ECS again, although it can’t be compared with the previous “emergency”))) Only because it didn’t go according to plan, it is called emergency)))

Yeah, last time it was terrible, there was no pressure, I was in a semi-fainting state almost the entire time. I felt sick, I couldn’t walk or straighten up... and by the end of the third day I somehow came to my senses.

And this time... MMMM))))

Immediately after the intensive training, after being transferred to the ward, I also asked to pick up the baby, although they tried to dissuade me) but I was in a “fighting mood”))) I asked to remove the catheters, and immediately went to get the kitten)))

The pain, yes, has not gone away, but general state incomparable, of course. A friend/relative kept telling me, “Don’t compare, then the general condition was what, and for a long time in the green waters - intoxication, etc., and the contractions lasted a long time, they exhausted you, and for almost a day without water. »

So it turned out)

Although when I got to the maternity ward, already in the operating room I wanted to ask them to take off the IVs, not give me anesthesia and try it myself)))) Funny))))

However, it’s good that I didn’t try, because... During the CS, it turned out that meconium had managed to escape into the waters, and we still experienced hypoxia...

Regarding the scar, the doctor said that everything turned out to be not so criminal. Then there is the thickness between the edges - that’s one thing, but the thickness of the layer turned out to be quite normal.

But you know, I read what your doctor told you about the next birth, and I’m surprised... I was told to take careful precautions... There is a risk and it’s very big... And then it’s up to me, of course, to decide. How, they say, don’t tighten the tissue, don’t re-form the scar, it won’t get thicker anyway... Here... Previously, everyone didn’t get around to unsubscribing, but here you inspired))))

Health to us and our kids)

By the way, the day before yesterday I had to go to the district, because... the seam swelled and began to ache.

There they opened the seam in one place, without anesthesia. Tough. They pumped out the liquid from there... (a seroma appeared).

But now everything is fine)

Do you still have a belly?

I have a rough area inside that can be felt like a thick strip - apparently there are seams and tissue around it. And on the outside my tummy is like a ball of fat... I understand that it’s early, but I’m already waiting for it to “melt”))) I miss my flat stomach)))

We have collected in one place popular user posts on the topic “where do lung scars come from” so that you can get answers to questions related to:

  • - pregnancy planning;
  • - raising a child;
  • - treatment and diagnosis of childhood diseases.

The baby.ru social service is a community of 10 million current and future mothers who have already discussed the question “where do scars on the lungs come from” in their blogs and thematic communities.

http://www.baby.ru

Throughout our lives, we injure our skin many times. Some injuries go away without a trace, while others can leave a mark that lasts a lifetime. Why is this happening? Is it possible to somehow influence this? Is there any point in putting in the effort and spending a lot of money? Which scars last forever and which ones can be easily treated? You will find the answer to these and many other questions below.

The process of scar formation

A scar does not form instantly. He doesn't appear even for a few days. This is quite a long process. And the more seriously the skin tissue was damaged, the longer it lasts.

To understand why scars remain, let's look at the formation process step by step:

  1. Inflammatory stage. Lasts 7-10 days from the moment of injury. This is the period when damaged tissue First they swell and become inflamed, and then gradually return to normal. If at this stage the wound has not become infected and the correct first aid has been provided, then the wound will heal with minimal unpleasant consequences. Only a slight thin scar may appear, which over time will become completely invisible.
  2. The appearance of a young scar. Only after ten days does a true scar begin to form. This stage lasts about a month. The scar tissue is immature; collagen fibers, which make up the scar, are just beginning to form in it. During this period, the scar has bright red color because of what it contains a large number of blood vessels. Excessive physical activity can cause repeated injury to the same area of ​​skin. This largely determines whether scars remain in children and adults.
  3. Transition to a mature scar. This happens within 1-3 months from the date of injury. If a repeated injury occurs during this period, the scars remain for life. The scar becomes denser due to the fact that collagen fibers begin to line up in a certain order. He also turns pale because some of the blood vessels die.
  4. End of maturation. The process is also long, taking a period from the fourth month to a year. It is at this stage that the doctor can give an objective assessment of the condition of the scar and determine the prognosis for its treatment. The tissue becomes even denser and paler.

Scar removal at home. A reminder for you!

Causes of scars

Where do rough scars come from? Typically this is mechanical damage skin. But at the same time, everyone knows well that if you get a small scratch, not a trace will remain of it. This means that the scars remain forever if the wound was large. Why is this happening? Here are a few reasons for this:

Prevention

How to properly treat acne wounds

Do scars remain after removing them using all sorts of methods? In most cases, yes. That is why you need to try to minimize the risk of their occurrence. To do this you need:

  • Immediately after the injury, clean the wound of contamination by rinsing it with water.
  • If the wound is too deep, wide or lacerated, it is highly advisable to seek medical attention. medical assistance. In this case, suturing is simply necessary.
  • You must follow your doctor's instructions during the healing period. Try not to re-injure yourself.
  • Since children have scars after chickenpox (often even for life), it is necessary to explain to them the dangers of scratching the sores and make sure that they do not do this. Taking antihistamines (antipruritics) gives good results.
  • If a scar appears, you need to use special gels and patches to absorb them.
  • Do acne scars remain on your face? There are still some left! This suggests that you need to take care of your skin and not neglect its condition.

Exclusive video! Treatment of scars with folk remedies

How your skin will look after a wound largely depends on you. If you do not want to get unsightly scars, you need to respond to any injuries in a timely manner and then healing will proceed comfortably and with minimal consequences.

How to quickly and easily get rid of calluses on your hands

Do you have a scar or bruises that don’t go away for a long time and you’ve already tried a bunch of medications? Judging by the fact that you are reading these lines, you are still looking for a life-saving remedy.

Perhaps you have passed special courses complex therapy, which included standard procedures, but was there any point?

Do not lead to a situation where the doctor poses the question bluntly. Follow the link and find out what Elena recommends doing to get rid of scars, scars, bruises and bruises.

Which mask is better?

http://magical-skin.com

Scars on the lungs are a pathology in which normal tissue For one reason or another, the lung is replaced by the connective tissue. This process is associated with increased production collagen.

The connective tissue begins to grow and a rough scar is formed. Unfortunately, the formation of such a scar is irreversible. In this regard, all treatment is aimed only at improving the patient’s quality of life.

Many people believe that pulmonary fibrosis it's cancer. This idea is a delusion. Connective tissue spreads only to a certain limit, without screening out and without causing the appearance of new lesions in other organs.

Types of fibrosis and its manifestations

For this pathology no age restrictions. The risk group includes people whose profession involves constant contact with organic and inorganic dust. Such dust can be metal shavings, or even ordinary flour.

There are a number of factors that can cause this disease:

  1. Various kinds infectious processes in the lungs.
  2. Allergic diseases.
  3. Action radiation therapy in the treatment of oncology of other localizations.
  4. Work in an industry that involves inhaling various harmful substances.

The mechanism of occurrence of the disease lies in the damaging effects of etiological factors. As a result of their impact, microtraumas of the lung are formed, which, after healing, are replaced by scar tissue, which once again proves that fibrosis is not cancer.

In the group of pneumofibrosis, there are two main types:

  1. With local fibrosis, only a section of the lung is involved in the process, which, as mentioned above, is replaced by coarse connective tissue. As a result of such changes, the lung is somewhat deformed, and its volume decreases.
  2. In diffuse fibrosis, inflammation affects a significant part of the lung. The lung becomes much more deformed, and its function suffers significantly. This form of the disease is quite insidious, as it can affect the vascular network and spread throughout it. The main way it differs from cancer is that the process does not go beyond the respiratory system and does not affect other organs. Changes in organs, such as the heart, are secondary to this disease.

As for the clinical picture, recognizing a scar on the lung is early stages It's hard enough. Symptoms can be sufficiently smoothed out or disguised as another disease, which makes it possible to detect fibrosis in the early stages in only 20% of patients.

The main symptoms and stages of the disease are presented below.


Basics of therapy for fibrotic changes in the lungs

In medical practice, there are six main methods of treating such conditions.


Since scars in the lungs are quite serious and practically incurable, you need to think about preventing pulmonary fibrosis.

  1. Avoid prolonged respiratory tract infections, try to stop them in a timely manner.
  2. Avoid contact with allergens.
  3. Refuse from working conditions associated with work in harmful conditions. If this cannot be done, it is necessary to undergo regular medical examinations.
  4. If there is any suspicion of possible availability pulmonary fibrosis, consult a doctor immediately.

In conclusion, I would like to say that only a doctor can and should treat such diseases; independent attempts at cure can be fatal. In the treatment of fibrotic changes in the lungs, one cannot adhere to any one type of therapy.

Everything must be comprehensive. Only the correct combination of all components of therapy will help to completely get rid of fibrosis in the early stages, and prevent the development of complications in later stages.

Cicatricial stenosis is a condition in which the natural lumen of the intestine, esophagus or duodenum (12-pc) narrows due to the formation of connective tissue that is not capable of normal stretching and reduction. Stenosis can develop in any part of a hollow organ; this complication often accompanies operations on the pharynx.

Connective tissue differs in structure from healthy tissue internal organs, it is formed by strong and non-elastic collagen fibers. The main component of collagen is fibrin, a dense protein that performs a supporting function in the extracellular matrix. If the scar occupies a large area or is located in an unfavorable location, it can impair organ function and lead to pain and a number of other adverse symptoms.

Why do scars occur?

Connective tissue forms where it should not exist due to injury. The body requires urgent healing of the damage, and it uses the most economical option, since fibrin fibers can be quickly synthesized. All scars on internal organs can be divided into 2 large groups:

  1. Life threatening. This group includes scars in the heart, lungs and digestive tract, as well as fibrotic changes in the liver. The damage that the body receives depends on the area and location of the scar, and on the degree of damage to healthy tissue.
  2. Not life threatening. These include scars on the tonsils, eardrum, prostate or thyroid gland. If fibrosis does not interfere normal function organ, it may cause discomfort, but does not pose a serious danger. Large scars, for example, on the eardrum, necessarily lead to loss of organ function, and a person may lose hearing.

Scarring of internal organs can cause respiratory, liver or heart failure, this serious problem which requires medical attention. It is important to understand that initial stage It is possible to eliminate a scar on the liver or on another organ, but when the area of ​​fibrotic changes becomes too large, treatment becomes either difficult or impossible in principle.

Advice! After operations on the lungs, liver or gastrointestinal tract, you need to find out in detail from the doctor how the recovery is going, so that if symptoms of fibrosis appear, you should immediately be alert and come for a consultation.

A scar in the lung is considered one of the most dangerous. The lungs consist of spherical alveoli that resemble sacs. When you inhale, oxygen enters the sac, and the walls absorb it and pass it into the blood. When you exhale, the sac contracts and expels carbon dioxide.

The most common cause of scarring in the lungs is pneumonia. If the patient suffered from acute or chronic pneumonia, the alveoli in the area of ​​the inflammatory process were damaged. Used to heal damage fibrous tissue, which glues the alveoli together, conglomerates are formed. Fibrin cannot support gas exchange like normal lung tissue, so scarring on the lungs, if there is a lot of it, leads to respiratory failure.

A scar on the lung can be caused by infectious diseases accompanied by pneumonia:

  • tuberculosis bacillus;
  • staphylococcus or streptococcus;
  • cytomegalovirus;
  • Candida fungi and many other infections.

In addition, pneumonia can be caused autoimmune process, For example, bronchial asthma due to allergies. Competent and timely treatment does not lead to the formation of scars in the lungs, but chronic illness, left without due attention – leads.

There are 3 more dangerous conditions leading to pneumonia:

  1. Pneumothorax. As a result of open or closed injury chest air enters pleural cavity, that is, in the space between the lungs and the chest. Normally, the pressure in the pleural cavity is negative, due to which the lung can expand when inhaling. With pneumothorax, pressure increases and the lung collapses. If the condition cannot be normalized, death from oxygen starvation or from heart failure. A small amount of air in the pleural cavity is not life-threatening, but if this condition lasts for a long time, pneumonia is possible with subsequent scar formation in the lung.
  2. Hematox. If blood enters the pleural cavity, there is also the possibility of death, and if there is little blood, then the possibility of pneumonia with scarring of the lung tissue.
  3. Hydrothorax. Water, most likely unsterile, enters the pleural cavity, resulting in respiratory failure, and then pneumonia and scars.

Normally, the pleural cavity contains a small amount serous fluid, which is needed for smooth sliding along the walls of the chest cavity when inhaling and exhaling. The chronic inflammatory process leads to an increase in the concentration of fibrin in the serous substance, so-called adhesions appear, which are not elastic and impede the movement of the lungs. This is another complication that pneumonia can cause, in addition to alveolar hypoventilation.

Fact! Severe respiratory failure inevitably and quickly provokes death Therefore, when treating lung diseases, scarring should be avoided.

Scars of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract

Scarring of the stomach, esophagus or 12 pcs is considered one of the common postoperative complications. There are 3 indications for surgery, in which clinical picture will vary as the damage heals.

Scars after removal of malignant tumors

In the area of ​​the intestines or esophagus surgery carried out for common or non-common malignant neoplasms. At stages 2-4 of the oncological process, the patient always suffers from vitamin deficiency and a lack of microelements important for regeneration, so healing of the mucous membrane is slow, with atrophic changes and prolonged inflammation.

A scar in the area of ​​the pylorus (this is a sphincter that is located between the stomach and the 12-pc) leads to a narrowing of the lumen of the 12-pc. As a result of stenosis, the advancement of the food coma becomes difficult, nausea, vomiting and gastritis occur.

Cicatricial stenosis of the larynx after removal cancerous tumors often complicated by fibrotic changes in the vocal cords, which can lead to loss of voice or chronic hoarseness. Narrowing of the glottis as a result of swelling or scarring of the ligaments can cause aphonia.

Scars after removal of benign tumors

Bulk benign tumors are removed if they cause pain or make it difficult to eat. For benign tumors, healing occurs differently, depending on the degree of exhaustion of the patient.

If the laryngeal tumor was small and the patient has good potential for regeneration, cicatricial laryngeal stenosis develops in only 1-2% of cases. In elderly patients, compared to young patients, scars are vocal cords and in the pharynx area they form 4 times more often.

Surgical removal benign tumors in the area of ​​the pylorus, 12-pc or stomach gives fibrotic changes in the mucosa if the tumor was more than 2 cm in diameter. Large scars impair the contractility of the pylorus, can provoke a narrowing of the 12-pc lumen and significantly complicate digestion.

Advice! If after surgery on the stomach you experience heartburn or nausea after eating, you need to contact a gastroenterologist and find out the cause of the ailment. These symptoms may indicate a malfunction of the gatekeeper.

Scars caused by inflammation

Gastrointestinal scars can disrupt normal motility of the digestive organs, cause pain after eating and even eating disorder. What leads to stomach and intestinal scars besides surgery:

  1. Chronic gastritis, turning into ulcerative lesion mucous membrane. A long-term inflammatory process affects not only the superficial, but also the deep layers of the mucosa, up to muscle tissue. The degree and area of ​​damage depend on the intensity of the inflammatory process. In some cases, not only the stomach, but also the 12-pc and even the large intestine suffers. A post-ulcer scar is accompanied by pain and can significantly complicate the patient’s life. With gastritis, in 80% of cases the pylorus is affected, since this sphincter is constantly in contact with the acidic contents of the stomach. If acidity gastric juice chronically elevated, erosions form in the pyloric area, which heal with the formation of scars. As a result, the sphincter becomes inelastic and cannot fully regulate the movement of chyme (a lump of semi-digested food), the patient experiences dyspepsia. Significant narrowing of the digestive tract leads to a complete inability to eat normally.
  2. Sharp or chronic poisoning. A chemical or thermal burn to the mucous membrane of the stomach and esophagus leads to erosion, the depth of which largely depends on the destructive potential of the chemical reagent or on the temperature of the liquid that the person drank. Normal food poisoning rarely provokes persistent changes in the mucous membrane, but acetic acid and other poisons can cause poorly healing ulcers. Such injuries not only cause pain and disrupt normal nutrition patient, they can provoke reflex spasms of the esophagus. The gatekeeper always gets injured due to poisoning and burns, because he is in direct contact with aggressive substances. Scarring of the pylorus requires additional treatment in 4-5% of cases of all severe poisonings.

The mucous membrane of the stomach, esophagus and duodenum has a high potential for regeneration and is capable of a short time compensate for damage. In the area of ​​natural anatomical curves and sphincters, it is more vulnerable, healing takes longer and is more difficult, and the likelihood of complications and scars is higher.

Fact! Sooner or later, 80-90% of all patients with chronic gastritis encounter gastrointestinal scars.

Cicatricial stenosis of the pharynx

Constriction of the pharynx is a serious problem, given that this anatomical structure includes both the respiratory tract and digestive tract. The main reasons why scars appear on the pharyngeal mucosa:

  • chemical and thermal burns (for example, 3rd degree burns);
  • unsuccessful operations, for example, to remove tonsils;
  • spicy or chronic tonsillitis, tonsillitis;
  • mechanical injuries to the palate or oropharynx, for example, from a knife wound.

The mucous membrane of the pharynx is mobile, and the scars disrupt the contractility of the muscles and prevent reflex swallowing. As a result of fibrosis of the pharynx, dysphagia may develop, and it becomes difficult and painful for the patient to eat.

Injuries in the tonsil area, affecting not only the mucous membrane, but also the deep layers of the muscle tissue of the pharynx, heal with the formation of fibrous cords.

Advice! An otolaryngologist helps normalize the condition of the pharynx and cope with postoperative and other complications, eliminate cicatricial obliteration.

Deadly liver fibrosis

The liver differs from many other organs in its wide variety of collagen fibers; it contains 5 types of this protein. Fibrosis is most often caused by 4 factors:

  • infectious or non-infectious inflammatory process, for example, hepatitis;
  • surgery, such as tumor removal;
  • mechanical injury to the liver, for example, a knife wound;
  • low activity of the immune system, insufficient number of macrophages that remove excess fibrin.

With scarring of the liver, the following consequences are possible:

  • dysfunction of the gland, liver failure;
  • impaired blood supply to the gland, necrosis due to oxygen starvation of tissues.

Since liver enzymes are built into many chemical reactions in the body, scarring of this organ poses a serious threat to human health.

Important! Deals with the treatment and prevention of liver fibrosis narrow specialist- hepatologist, but the examination can also begin with a therapist.

Scars that are not life-threatening

There is a category of common scars that are not directly life-threatening, although they may cause minor discomfort, especially during the healing stage. Regeneration and accompanying tissue changes are often accompanied by itching – this is what worries patients.

It is important not to forget that not only the speed of healing, but also the functioning of the corresponding organ depends on the area and location of the scar. Fibrosis is not life-threatening as long as the healthy part of the organ is able to compensate for the damage and fulfill its purpose.

Scarring of the eardrum occurs as a result of mechanical injuries, for example, during barotrauma or contusion. With perforation, the puncture area on the eardrum heals in most cases without fibrosis.

A scar is formed if the area of ​​the rupture is more than 25% of the total area of ​​the eardrum. Only in 3-5% of cases the eardrum becomes inelastic and hearing impairment occurs, which can progress to deafness.

Another cause of fibrosis is acute or chronic otitis media middle ear. The inflammatory process involving the eardrum is called myringitis. Without treatment, myringitis causes a dangerous complication - inflammation inner ear, which is accompanied not only by hearing impairment, but also by disturbances in the functioning of the vestibular apparatus.

Advice! In case of otitis media or injury to the eardrum, the help of an otolaryngologist is required. You need to see this specialist urgently, otherwise a scar may form on the eardrum.

Prostate scars

The prostate gland is located in a place where mechanical trauma or burns are rare. main reason The reason why scars appear on the prostate is an inflammatory process that continues for a long time without treatment. Timely treatment genitourinary infections can prevent the scarring process and maintain normal functionality of the prostate gland.

In some cases, fibrosis develops as a complication in postoperative period, after removal of an adenoma or malignant tumor of the prostate gland. Prevention of scarring is considered competent post-operative care. When the prostate gland is completely removed (for example, for cancer), the scar is localized in the perineal area. During the healing stage, itching occurs, but after 1-2 months there is no unpleasant symptoms the tripe does not bear fruit.

But prostate fibrosis can provoke the following disorders:

  • congestion caused by impaired lymph flow;
  • insufficient blood supply, up to necrosis;
  • decreased secretion production and associated disorders of the urinary and reproductive systems.

Normal prostate function is necessary for a full erection. If the scar affects the seminal ducts or interferes with the normal contraction of the muscles surrounding the prostate, the patient may experience impotence and infertility.

In patients under 35 years of age, prostate regeneration occurs without complications, and scars are rare. In the elderly, especially over 65 years of age, against the background of congestion and hyperplasia, there is increased risk prostate fibrosis.

Advice! A competent urologist will help restore the structure and function of the prostate gland; you should contact this specialist as early as possible.

malignant tumors, originating in the mucous membrane and glands of the bronchi and lungs. Cancer cells divide quickly, enlarging the tumor. Without proper treatment it grows into the heart, brain, blood vessels, esophagus, spine. The bloodstream carries cancer cells throughout the body, forming new metastases. There are three phases of cancer development:

  • The biological period is from the moment the tumor appears until its signs are recorded on x-rays (grade 1-2).
  • Preclinical - the asymptomatic period manifests itself only during x-rays(2-3 degree).
  • Clinical shows other signs of the disease (grade 3-4).

Causes

The mechanisms of cell degeneration are not fully understood. But thanks to numerous studies, chemical substances, capable of accelerating cell transformation. We will group all risk factors according to two criteria.

Reasons beyond a person's control:

  • Genetically predisposed: at least three cases similar disease in the family or the presence of a similar diagnosis in a close relative, the presence of several different forms of cancer in one patient.
  • Age after 50 years.
  • Tuberculosis, bronchitis, pneumonia, scars on the lungs.
  • Problems of the endocrine system.

Modifiable factors (what can be influenced):

  • Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer. When tobacco is burned, 4,000 carcinogens are released, covering the bronchial mucosa and burning living cells. Together with the blood, the poison enters the brain, kidneys, and liver. Carcinogens settle in the lungs until the end of life, covering them with soot. Smoking experience of 10 years or 2 packs of cigarettes per day increases the chance of getting sick by 25 times. Passive smokers are also at risk: 80% of exhaled smoke comes from them.
  • Professional contacts: asbestos-related factories, metallurgical enterprises; cotton, linen and felt mills; contact with poisons (arsenic, nickel, cadmium, chromium) at work; mining (coal, radon); rubber production.
  • Poor ecology, radioactive contamination. The systematic influence of air polluted by cars and factories on the lungs of the urban population changes the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

Classification

There are several types of classification. In Russia, there are five forms of cancer depending on the location of the tumor.

  1. Central cancer- in the lumen of the bronchi. In the first degree, it is not detected on photographs (masks the heart). The diagnosis may be indicated indirect signs X-ray: decreased airiness of the lung or regular local inflammation. All this is combined with a persistent cough with blood, shortness of breath, and later chest pain and fever.
  2. Peripheral cancer penetrates into the lungs. Painful sensations no, the diagnosis is determined by x-ray. Patients refuse treatment, not realizing that the disease is progressing. Options:
    • Cancer of the apex of the lung grows into the vessels and nerves of the shoulder. In such patients, osteochondrosis takes a long time to be treated, and they get to the oncologist late.
    • The cavity form appears after the collapse of the central part due to lack of nutrition. Neoplasms up to 10 cm are confused with an abscess, cysts, tuberculosis, which complicates treatment.
  3. Pneumonia-like cancer treated with antibiotics. Without getting the desired effect, they end up in oncology. The tumor is distributed diffusely (not in a node), occupying most lung
  4. Atypical forms: brain, liver, bone create metastases in lung cancer, and not the tumor itself.
    • The hepatic form is characterized by jaundice, heaviness in the right hypochondrium, deterioration of blood tests, and enlarged liver.
    • Brain damage looks like a stroke: a limb does not work, speech is impaired, the patient loses consciousness, headache, convulsions, bifurcation.
    • Bone – pain symptoms in the spine, pelvic region, in the limbs, fractures without injury.
  5. Metastatic neoplasms originate from a tumor of another organ with the ability to grow, paralyzing the functioning of the organ. Metastases up to 10 cm lead to death from decay products and dysfunction of internal organs. The primary source is the maternal tumor cannot always be determined.

By histological structure(cell type), lung cancer is:

  1. Small cell– the most aggressive tumor, quickly occupies and metastasizes in the early stages. Frequency of occurrence – 20%. Forecast – 16 months. with non-advanced cancer and 6 months. - when widespread.
  2. Non-small cell occurs more often, characterized relatively slow growth. There are three types:
    • squamous cell lung cancer (from flat lamellar cells with slow growth and a low incidence of early metastases, with areas of keratinization), prone to necrosis, ulcers, and ischemia. 15% survival rate.
    • adenocarcinoma develops from glandular cells. It spreads quickly through the bloodstream. Survival rate 20% at palliative care, 80% during surgery.
    • large cell carcinoma has several varieties, is asymptomatic, and occurs in 18% of cases. Average survival rate 15% (depending on type).

Stages

  • Lung cancer stage 1. A tumor up to 3 cm in diameter or a bronchial tumor in one lobe; there are no metastases in neighboring lymph nodes.
  • Lung cancer stage 2. A tumor in the lung is 3-6 cm, blocks the bronchi, grows into the pleura, causing atelectasis (loss of airiness).
  • Lung cancer stage 3. Tumor 6 -7 cm goes to neighboring organs, atelectasis of the entire lung, the presence of metastases in neighboring lymph nodes (root of the lung and mediastinum, supraclavicular zones).
  • Lung cancer stage 4. The tumor grows into the heart, large vessels, and fluid appears in the pleural cavity.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of lung cancer

  • Fast weight loss,
  • no appetite,
  • decline in performance,
  • sweating,
  • unstable temperature.

Specific signs:

  • cough, debilitating, without obvious reason- companion of bronchial cancer. The color of the sputum changes to yellow-green. IN horizontal position, physical exercise, and in the cold, coughing attacks become more frequent: a tumor growing in the area of ​​the bronchial tree irritates the mucous membrane.
  • Blood when coughing is pinkish or scarlet, with clots, but hemoptysis is also a sign.
  • Shortness of breath due to inflammation of the lungs, collapse of part of the lung due to tumor blockage of the bronchial tube. With tumors in large bronchi, organ shutdown may occur.
  • Chest pain due to the penetration of cancer into the serous tissue (pleura), growing into the bone. At the beginning of the disease alarms no, the appearance of pain indicates advanced stage. The pain can radiate to the arm, neck, back, shoulder, intensifying when coughing.

Diagnostics

Diagnosing lung cancer is not an easy task, because oncology looks like pneumonia, abscesses, and tuberculosis. More than half of tumors are detected too late. For the purpose of prevention, it is necessary to undergo an x-ray annually. If cancer is suspected, they undergo:

  • Fluorography to determine tuberculosis, pneumonia, lung tumors. If there are deviations, you need to take an x-ray.
  • X-ray of the lungs more accurately assesses the pathology.
  • Layer-by-layer X-ray tomography of the problem area - several sections with the focus of the disease in the center.
  • Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging with the introduction of contrast on layer-by-layer sections shows in detail and clarifies the diagnosis according to explicit criteria.
  • Bronchoscopy diagnoses central cancer tumors. You can see the problem and take a biopsy - a piece of affected tissue for analysis.
  • Tumor markers test the blood for a protein produced only by the tumor. The NSE tumor marker is used for small cell cancer, the SSC and CYFRA markers are used for squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, and CEA is a universal marker. The diagnostic level is low; it is used after treatment for early detection of metastases.
  • Sputum analysis has a low probability of suggesting the presence of a tumor if atypical cells are detected.
  • Thoracoscopy - examination through camera punctures into the pleural cavity. Allows you to take a biopsy and clarify changes.
  • A biopsy with a CT scan is used when there is doubt about the diagnosis.

The examination must be comprehensive, because cancer masquerades as many diseases. Sometimes they even use exploratory surgery.

Treatment

Type (radiological, palliative,) is selected based on the stage of the process, histological type of tumor, medical history). The most reliable method is surgery. At lung cancer Stage 1 - 70-80%, stage 2 - 40%, stage 3 - 15-20% of patients survive the control period of five years. Types of operations:

  • Removal of a lobe of the lung corresponds to all principles of treatment.
  • Marginal resection removes only the tumor. Metastases are treated in other ways.
  • Removal of the lung completely (pneumoectomy) - with a tumor of 2 degrees for central cancer, 2-3 degrees - for peripheral cancer.
  • Combined operations - with the removal of part of the adjacent affected organs.

Chemotherapy has become more effective thanks to new drugs. Small cell lung cancer responds well to polychemotherapy. With the right combination (taking into account sensitivity, 6-8 courses with an interval of 3-4 weeks), survival times increase 4 times. Chemotherapy for lung cancer. It is carried out in courses and gives positive results for several years.

Non-small cell cancer is resistant to chemotherapy (partial tumor resorption occurs in 10-30% of patients, complete resorption is rare), but modern polychemotherapy increases survival rate by 35%.

They also treat with platinum preparations - the most effective, but also the most toxic, which is why they are administered with large (up to 4 liters) amounts of liquid. Possible adverse reactions: nausea, intestinal disorders, cystitis, dermatitis, phlebitis, allergies. The best results are achieved with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, simultaneously or sequentially.

Radiation therapy uses beta-tron gamma units and linear accelerators. The method is designed for inoperable patients of grade 3-4. The effect is achieved due to the death of all cells of the primary tumor and metastases. Good results obtained for small cell cancer. In case of non-small cell irradiation, irradiation is carried out according to a radical program (in case of contraindications or refusal of surgery) for patients of 1-2 degrees or for palliative purposes for patients of 3 degrees. Standard dose for radiation treatment– 60-70 gray. In 40% it is possible to achieve a reduction in the oncological process.

Palliative treatment - operations to reduce the impact of the tumor on the affected organs to improve the quality of life with effective pain relief, oxygenation (forced oxygen saturation), treatment of associated diseases, support and care.

Traditional methods are used exclusively to relieve pain or after radiation and only in consultation with a doctor. Hope for healers and herbalists with this serious diagnosis increases the already high risk of death.

Forecast

The prognosis for lung cancer is unfavorable. Without special treatment 90% of patients die within 2 years. The prognosis is determined by the degree and histological structure. The table presents data on the survival rate of cancer patients for 5 years.

Stage
lung cancer

Small cell
cancer

Non-small cell
cancer

1A tumor up to 3cm

1B a tumor of 3-5 cm does not spread to others.
areas and lymph nodes

2A tumor 5-7cm without
metastasis to lymph nodes or up to 5 cm, legs with metastases.

2B tumor 7cm without
metastasis or less, but with damage to neighboring lymph nodes

3A tumor more than 7 cm with
damage to the diaphragm, pleura and lymph nodes

3B spreads on
diaphragm, middle of the chest, lining of the heart, other lymph nodes

4 the tumor metastasizes to other organs,
accumulation of fluid around the lung and heart

Nowadays, there are cases when a person who has undergone an annual mandatory fluorography is told that he has a scar on his lung. Naturally, panic begins, because thousands of diseases are spinning in your head.

But under no circumstances should you flog a fever, since a scar on the lung can only in some cases cause concern. Most often, scars on the lungs appear in cases where a person has suffered from pneumonia.

As it became known, by looking at the conditions of this organ, an experienced doctor can determine how many times a person has suffered from pneumonia. But this was also when the disease became severe.

In other cases, the scars are very small and pose absolutely no threat.

If a decent-sized wound is formed from small scars, then the person will immediately feel it, as it will become difficult to breathe when walking quickly, and shortness of breath will appear. In this case, the doctor will prescribe treatment that will be aimed at healing the wound.

Other reasons for the development of scars may be inflammatory processes V respiratory organs. For example, if you do not seek help in time for diseases such as measles, whooping cough, bronchitis or tuberculosis, then connective tissue, which leads to the development of scars.

They can also appear when a person works in a heavy, dusty or gas-filled room. In this case, it will not be possible to avoid “dust” bronchitis, or pneumoconiosis.

It is also necessary to pay attention to the aging of the body, since in this case scars are formed when the lungs gradually lose their elasticity and ability to contract and expand quite quickly.

The airways may become blocked when older people for a long time will be in a horizontal position. The most common age-related appearance of scar is interstitial fibrosis. In this case, fibrous tissue grows and the walls of the alveoli thicken. As a result, the patient will cough with sputum and a small amount of blood. He will feel chest pain.

Therefore, older people need to lead an active lifestyle whenever possible, even if it is difficult to move, they need to at least do physical exercise. It is useful to read aloud, communicate and sing.

Scar tissue can also develop in the lungs when toxic substances are inhaled.

As stated above, the scar can be different sizes, and symptoms change solely from their magnitude. Patients in whom the scar runs through the entire lung are diagnosed with diffuse pneumosclerosis. They are most often bothered by shortness of breath, so doctors recommend not engaging in heavy physical activity.

It is difficult for such people to run up to the minibus if they are late for it, or to climb to the 8th floor without an elevator. It is worth noting that if you ignore the disease and do not treat it, it will be difficult to breathe even when the patient is carrying a bag with regular products, in a few more years the disease will get to you even if you lie in front of the TV.

As a result, the disease will develop into cardiopulmonary failure. But we need to remind you once again - only when the patient refuses to accept medical help.

Difficulty breathing with a slight tingling sensation may also indicate a scar disease - hypoventilation of the lungs. In the end, right under your nose skin will acquire Blue colour. It will be seen that dry wheezing will be constantly heard when breathing.

Modern medicine can cope with the disease in a short time, since the doctor will prescribe a course of the usual symptomatic treatment. Shortness of breath can be overcome with regular use of bronchodilators in inhaled form. If the patient produces sputum when coughing along with wheezing, therapy is immediately supplemented with mucalytics.

If allergic manifestations are expressed, then glucocorticosteroids are prescribed. Launched form scars when cardiopulmonary failure occurs are treated with cardiac glycosides. In addition to the above medications, doctors may prescribe procedures such as exercise therapy and electrophoresis, chest massage, which significantly increases blood flow to the lungs.

If during the examination the doctor says that the scar is small and there is no need to be afraid, then the person should play it safe. It is advisable to beware colds, places with heavy gas pollution and dust. It is necessary to spend time among trees, especially conifers, as often as possible. The main thing is to immediately stop smoking, which can cause an increase in the size of the scar, because a large amount of smoke will enter the lungs.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that preventing the progression of the disease is not difficult. The main thing is to consult a doctor in time, who will prescribe a full examination. You will need to go to hospital until complete recovery.