The most common symptom of Actinomyces is a chronic infection in the mouth, throat, chest, and lungs. These infections are often accompanied by a range of other symptoms, such as fever, coughing, and chest pain. Other signs and symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, blood in the sputum, and weight loss.
Diagnosis of Actinomyces
If you have any of the symptoms associated with Actinomyces, it is important to see your doctor for diagnosis. Your doctor may order tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, and may take a sample of sputum for laboratory analysis. If the diagnosis is confirmed, your doctor can recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment of Actinomyces
Treatment for Actinomyces usually involves a combination of antibiotics and other medications. The type and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause. Antibiotics may need to be taken for weeks or even months. If the infection is severe, hospitalization may be necessary. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the infected tissue.