Lung Disease Explained
Lung disease is any disease or disorder that impairs the function of the lungs.
Lung Disease Statistics
Lung disease is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., taking one in seven lives every year. Lung disease and other lung infections and illnesses are the number one killer of infants. It is estimated that more than 35 million Americans are currently living with a lung disease.
Lung diseases can be separated into two categories:
# Obstructive lung diseases
# Restrictive lung diseases
Obstructive Lung Diseases
Obstructive lung diseases cause a narrowing or blockage of the airways resulting in a decrease in exhaled air flow. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, asthma, and bronchiectasis are examples of obstructive lung diseases.
Restrictive Lung Diseases
Restrictive lung diseases cause one or more of the following:
# Loss of lung tissue
# Decrease in the lung's ability to expand
# Decrease in the lung's ability to transfer oxygen or carbon dioxide with the blood.
Pulmonary fibrosis (including sarcoidosis), lung cancer and pneumonia are examples of restrictive lung diseases.
Common Lung Diseases
Although there are many lung diseases, some of the most common are:
# Asthma
# COPD
# Cystic Fibrosis
# Emphysema
# Lung Cancer
# Mesothelioma
# Tuberculosis
Lung Disease Symptoms and Signs
Millions of people are diagnosed every year with a lung disease, while many more may go undiagnosed. There are specific signs and symptoms characteristic of lung disease. The following is a list of lung disease symptoms and signs, and a description of each. If you believe you may have a lung disease, you should contact your doctor immediately.
TIP: You may want to print this page and check off any lung disease symptoms you are experiencing and take it with you to your doctor.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Cough
Coughing is a defense mechanism that is used to clear the airways of mucus, inhale toxins, or a foreign body. Coughs can be productive or unproductive depending on how it is done. A productive cough should result in the clearing of mucus or secretions from the airways.
A persistent or worsening cough hay be accompanied by a high fever, dyspnea, or bloody or copious sputum requiring immediate medical attention. Coughing is one of the most common lung disease symptoms.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Dyspnea
Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is sometimes a result of a problem with the respiratory system, heart disease, anxiety, or other condition. Sudden bouts of shortness of breath, particularly if is is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, may indicate disease, and should be evaluated by a doctor immediately. Shortness of breath is NOT a natural part of aging. It should be taken seriously and reported to your doctor.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Wheezing
Wheezing is a high pitched sound produced while inhaling or exhaling. It occurs when airways are narrowed or obstructed by abnormal tissue or inflammation, excessive secretions or mucus, or when a foreign material has been inhaled and is obstructing the airways. Wheezing may also be a signal that a lung condition is worsening.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Chest Pain
Chest pain generally indicates a problem in the lungs, pleura, or muscles and bones of the chest wall. The problem may be minor or severe, or even life-threatening, and may be constant or experienced only during inhalation. Pain in the chest may indicate infection if it is accompanied by cough or fever. If you are experiencing chest pain, you should immediately seek medical attention.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Hemoptysis
Hemoptysis (coughing up blood) may appear as pinkish froth, mucus with a bloody streak or clot, or pure blood. It may occur as a result of a persistent cough or it may be indicative of a serious lung disease. If you are experiencing hemoptysis, you should consult your doctor immediately. Hemoptysis is a serious lung disease symptom.
Lung Disease Signs - Cyanosis
Cyanosis is when the skin becomes a bluish or purplish color, most apparent around the lips and nail beds. It is a sign that the blood is not receiving enough oxygen. Cyanosis may appear suddenly as a result of acute lung disease or slowly as lung disease progressively worsens.
Lung Disease Signs - Swelling
Swelling of the arms, legs, and ankles may indicate lung disease. Swelling is typically associated with heart disease and accompanied by shortness of breath. Many times, the heart and lungs produce similar symptoms because many disorders affect both organs.
Lung Disease Symptoms - Respiratory Failure
Respiratory failure is the most severe sign of lung disease, acute and chronic. Acute respiratory failure may be due to massive infection, lung inflammation, cessation of the heartbeat, or severe lung disease. Chronic respiratory failure is when the lungs cannot oxygenate the blood and/or remove carbon dioxide normally.
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