Lung Disease

Lung diseases not only affect the lungs but also other parts of the respiratory system, such as the larynx, bronchi, bronchioles, or blood vessels. They are often caused by viral or bacterial infections, smoking, or prolonged exposure to pollutants.

Some of the most common lung diseases include:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): The irreversible loss of lung function due to airflow obstruction in the bronchi. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis causes daily cough and sputum production, while emphysema (destruction of the alveoli) primarily makes breathing difficult.
• Cystic fibrosis: A congenital disease characterized by the presence of bronchiectasis (bronchial dilations) and excessive production of thick mucus that clogs the airways.
• Pneumothorax: The leakage of air into the space between the chest wall and the lungs.
• Lung cancer: The abnormal growth of cells forming lung tissue.
• Pulmonary fibrosis: Thickening of the lung tissue due to secondary inflammatory rheumatic diseases, resulting in a loss of elasticity and function.
• Asthma: Reversible airway obstruction due to inflammation in the bronchi.
• Pulmonary embolism: The result of a blood clot (thrombus), usually originating in the legs, breaking loose and blocking blood vessels that carry blood to the lungs.

Currently, lung diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, making early detection and proper treatment essential for a better prognosis and patient outcomes. Additionally, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking, helps prevent these diseases and improves quality of life.

Symptoms

Although each condition is different, individuals with lung disease commonly exhibit the following symptoms:

• Dyspnea (difficulty breathing or shortness of breath).
• Persistent cough, sometimes producing mucus or blood.
• Clubbing of the fingers (fingertips shaped like drumsticks).
• Chest pain.
• Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing due to bronchial inflammation).
• Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin).
• Fatigue.
• Depression.
• Anxiety.

Causes

The primary cause of lung diseases, especially chronic ones, is exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, certain allergens, environmental pollution, some chemicals, or dust.

Depending on the origin of the disease, lung conditions are classified into:

• Interstitial lung disease: Affects the connective tissue surrounding the alveoli.
• Infectious lung disease: Caused by fungal, viral, or bacterial infections.
• Pneumoconiosis or occupational lung disease: Results from exposure to irritants in the workplace.

Risk Factors

Some factors that increase the risk of developing lung disease include:

• Smoking.
• Inhalation of pollutants.
• Exposure to dust or allergens.
• Certain medical treatments, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy.

Complications

The most severe complication of lung diseases is respiratory failure, meaning the lungs deteriorate completely and cease to function, preventing the body's cells from receiving enough oxygen.

Prevention

To prevent lung diseases, it is recommended to adopt healthy lifestyle habits such as:

• Quitting smoking.
• Engaging in moderate regular exercise.
• Ventilating indoor spaces daily.
• Maintaining proper hygiene, especially handwashing (frequently, particularly after using the bathroom, returning home, or before cooking).
• Following a balanced diet rich in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals like zinc.

Which Doctor Treats Lung Disease?

Lung diseases are treated in pulmonology clinics or palliative care units.