Lung Diseases
All Lung Diseases
Acute Chest Syndrome
Lung Diseases
Acute Chest Syndrome Sickle cell disease (SCD) or anemia is an inherited blood disorder that affects the hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Acute chest syndrome (ACS) is a severe lung-related complication of sickle cell disease that affects both children and adults. It creates a pneumonia like illness and is one of the leading causes of morbidity, hospitalizations and death in children and adults living with sickle cell disease. ACS occurs when sickle red blood cells block blood vessels in the lungs. This is considered an emergency and may be life threatening. How Acute Chest Syndrome Affects Your Body Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen in your body. A person with sickle cell anemia makes a different type of hemoglobin called sickle hemoglobin. While normal red blood cells are shaped round, flexible and smooth, red blood cells that contain sickle hemoglobin develop an irregular shape like a crescent or banana. Acute chest syndrome happens when these sickle cells block the small blood vessels in the lungs. This blockage reduces blood flow and the amount of oxygen that travels out to nourish the body. The longer the small blood vessels are blocked, the more damage can be done to other organs of your body. Key Facts: Acute chest syndrome can be life-threatening and accounts for close to 25% of deaths in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). The peak incidence of ACS in children is ages 2 to 4. Because it is potentially fatal, it requires immediate intervention regardless of age If you are living with asthma and SCD, you are five times more likely to have respiratory symptoms at the time of a Vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). A VOC occurs when sickled cells block blood flow resulting in tissues being deprived of oxygen. With timely treatment, most people can recover. While the cause is unknown, long-term complications of repeated ACS include interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension . Who Is at Risk? There is no single cause of ACS, however certain conditions can trigger it. ACS can be brought on suddenly when the body is under stress from illness or dehydration. Other Medical Conditions : Pulmonary embolism (blood clots from other parts of the body travelling to the lungs), pulmonary fat embolism (bone marrow tissue travelling from the bones to the lungs), pulmonary artery thrombosis (blood clots forming in the lungs), infections like pneumonia, and asthma. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported as a cause of ACS Vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC): Vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) which is a common complication of SCD, presents with excruciating pain, usually of sudden onset, although it may be a gradual onset. The pain is often concentrated to the extremities like your arms and legs, chest or back. ACS may be a complication of VOC. Low oxygen levels: Low oxygen in the lungs and blood leads to the formation of sickle cells . This may be the result of infection in the lungs. Low Fetal Hemoglobin (HbF): Fetal hemoglobin or HbF is the main form of Hemoglobin in the fetus. HbF continues after birth and being in red blood cells protects against sickling. Low levels of HbF can increase the risk of ACS. Genotype: Sickle Hemoglobin is the product of the sickle gene S. Genes exist in pairs and individuals with SS have the most serious form of SCD. S may be present with another variation of the hemoglobin gene such as C which causes a less severe form of the disease. Age: ACS can occur at any age. In children with SCD peak onset of ACS occurs ages 2 to 4 years old. Infection: ACS in children is often triggered by infection Recent trauma or surgery : Due to pain and medications post-surgery, you may experience shallow breathing and low oxygen levels resulting in sickling in the lungs that cause ACS. Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure: Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke is associated with a higher risk of ACS and more severe episodes in children. What Are the Symptoms of Acute Chest Syndrome? The signs and symptoms of acute chest syndrome can vary. Children are more likely to have an infection that will present respiratory symptoms and fever. Adults are more likely to have pain in the chest, arms, and legs, as well as shortness of breath and vaso-occlusive pain episodes. The most common symptoms are: Shortness of breath Wheezing Rapid shallow breathing (tachypnea) Cough , which may contain blood Fever Chest or back pain Vaso-occlusive pain How to Diagnose Acute Chest Syndrome? It is important to get immediate medical treatment if you suspect ACS. If you go to an emergency room or hospital, you should notify them that you have sickle cell disease. During your exam, your physician will conduct a physical exam and ask about your personal history, including any potential risk factors. Diagnosis is based on test results from chest imaging, medical history and symptoms. Common tests that may be ordered are: Chest X-ray of your heart and lungs Pulse oximetry to measure oxygen saturation Blood tests including complete blood count, metabolic panel, cultures (to rule out infection), type and cross match (due to the potential need for transfusion) Bronchoscopy with BAL to evaluate other sources of infection if symptoms are not improving with supportive care and antibiotics A CTA or computed tomographic angiogram is a special type of X-ray that is the most common test used to diagnose pulmonary embolism because it uses contrast to analyze blood vessels. A Ventilation perfusion scan may be ordered instead if you are allergic to the dye used for a CTA. D-Dimer (blood test) to screen for possible pulmonary emboli Ultrasound of the legs to measure blood flow speed Electrocardiogram to record heart activity MRI is usually reserved for pregnant women and individuals that may not be able to tolerate the contrast used in other imaging tests How Acute Chest Syndrome Is Treated Treatment must be aggressive since the disease can progress quickly and can be fatal. ACS treatment may include pain control, intravenous (IV) fluids if dehydration is suspected, antibiotics to treat infection, supplemental oxygen, and blood transfusions. If you are hospitalized for a vaso-occlusive pain episode, you may be provided with an incentive spirometer. An incentive spirometer is a device that will help you expand your lungs and breathe deeper and fuller. It helps to prevent areas of lung collapse, also known as atelectasis. Atelectasis may increase hypoxia or low oxygen in the blood. Bronchodilators may be used when there is underlying asthma or pulmonary disorders. If oxygen therapy is inadequate to treat low oxygen levels, additional treatments are needed to prevent respiratory failure. These treatments may include noninvasive ventilation like BiPAP. In more serious cases intubation and extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may be required. Treatment for ACS will usually require hospital admission to monitor oxygen levels and clinical status. Treatment with corticosteroids is sometimes used. A new gene therapy, called LentiGlobin, is being studied for long-term results that may provide a potential cure for sickle cell disease. You can learn more about this hopeful treatment in our Lungcast episode, “ The Troubling Cycle of Sickle Cell Disease ” with Dr. Ify Osunkwo. How Can Acute Chest Syndrome Be Prevented If you have asthma or another lung disease, it is important to follow your lung disease treatment and management plan and follow up with a pulmonary doctor. Lung diseases, like asthma, are related to higher rates of ACS and reduced lung function over time. For example, people living with sickle cell disease and asthma are two to four times more likely to get ACS than people with sickle cell disease alone. Your healthcare may prescribe Hydroxyurea, which is a medication that can increase HbF and is used to treat SCD. Hydroxyurea can help reduce the pain, the need for blood transfusions, and prevent episodes of ACS. The length of treatment may vary, and routine blood tests and close monitoring may be needed, as there are side effects to this medication. Chronic transfusions may be used during high-risk months for respiratory infections, like winter. Chronic transfusions are used to support the transition to hydroxyurea or if you are recovering from a life-threatening ACS. Stem cell transplants may be considered if hydroxyurea is not working to prevent recurring ACS episodes. You should also stay up to date with vaccinations that protect you against infectious respiratory diseases like COVID-19, flu and pneumonia. There is a risk of long-term complications with recurring ACS episodes. These complications include reduced lung function, interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension. For more information: Some resources available to patients include: Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Centers for Disease Control Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/acute-chest-syndrome
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
Lung Diseases
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung injury that allows fluid to leak into the lungs. Breathing becomes difficult and oxygen cannot get into the body. Most people who get ARDS are already at the hospital for trauma or illness. Key Facts Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) occurs when our lungs are severely injured, often by infection or trauma. Many people who get ARDS are already in the hospital due to an infection or a trauma. But if you are not and your symptoms suggest ARDS, go to the nearest ER immediately. ARDS causes fluid to leak into the lungs, making it difficult to get oxygen into the bloodstream. Treatment is improving and more people are surviving ARDS now than in the past. Survival can depend on age and presence of other medical problems. How ARDS Affects Your Body In the early stages of ARDS, fluid from the smallest blood vessels in the lungs starts to leak into the alveoli—the tiny air sacs where oxygen exchange takes place. The lungs become smaller and stiffer and it becomes hard to breath. The amount of oxygen in the blood falls. This is called hypoxemia. The body becomes starved for oxygen. This harms the brain and other tissues and leads to organ failure. ARDS patients need help to open closed airspaces, get oxygen into the blood and make it easier to breath. A ventilator and extra oxygen are used for these reasons and maintained until the injury resolves. What Causes ARDS? ARDS results from lung injury. The exact nature of the injury is not always clear. Common injuries are: Sepsis, a life-threatening condition occurs when your immune system must work aggressively to fight off infection or trauma Inhaling harmful substances Pneumonia Trauma to the head, chest or other areas of the body Blood transfusions Pancreatitis Near drowning Who Is at Risk for ARDS? Most people who develop ARDS are already in the hospital because of injury or illness. While it is not clear who will develop ARDS, certain factors may increase the risk for ARDS including: Advanced age A history of tobacco use A history of alcoholism Presence of chronic lung disease High-risk surgery What Are Symptoms of ARDS? Patients with ARDS are short of breath, often to a distressing level. They are breathing faster and their heart is beating faster. They may have pain as they try to take a breath. As the oxygen in the blood falls, their fingernails and lips may have a bluish color. How Is ARDS Diagnosed? When patients present with the above symptoms, doctors will do a chest X-ray to look for fluid in the lungs and a blood test to find out the severity of the oxygen starvation. ARDS has to be separated from heart failure and chronic lung disease. Doctors suspect ARDS if they can identify a lung injury. If you have heart disease or chronic lung disease, this may be more difficult because ARDS and heart problems have similar symptoms. Related Blogs What to Know if Your Loved One is Diagnosed with ARDS ARDS is a serious condition that can be frightening for patients and their loved ones. The outcomes tend to be better in younger patients, trauma patients and when ARDS is caused by blood transfusions. Chances of survival and recovery are better for those who recover before other organs begin to fail. Liver failure, kidney failure and severely decreased blood pressure are some common warning signs of a potentially life-threatening situation. Survivors can recover full or partial lung function due to scarring. Health problems outside of the lung such as muscle weakness or fatigue can persist for as long as a year. How Is ARDS Treated? There is no cure for ARDS at this time. Treatment focuses on supporting the patient while the lungs heal. The goal of supportive care is getting enough oxygen into the blood and delivered to your body to prevent damage and removing the injury that caused ARDS to develop. Ventilator support All patients with ARDS will require extra oxygen. Oxygen alone is usually not enough, and high levels of oxygen can also injure the lung. A ventilator is a machine used to open airspaces that have shut down and help with the work of breathing. The ventilator is connected to the patient through a mask on the face or a tube inserted into the windpipe. Prone positioning ARDS patients are typically in bed on their back. When oxygen and ventilator therapies are at high levels and blood oxygen is still low, ARDS patients are sometimes turned over on their stomach to get more oxygen into the blood. This is called proning and may help improve oxygen levels in the blood for a while. It is a complicated task and some patients are too sick for this treatment. Sedation and medications to prevent movement To relieve shortness of breath and prevent agitation, the ARDS patient usually needs sedation. Sometimes added medications called paralytics are needed up front to help the patient adjust to the ventilator. These medications have significant side effects and their risks and benefits must be continuously monitored. Fluid management Doctors may give ARDS patients a medication called a diuretic to increase urination in hopes of removing excess fluid from the body to help prevent fluid from building up in the lungs. This must be done carefully, because too much fluid removal can lower blood pressure and lead to kidney problems. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) ECMO is a very complicated treatment that takes blood outside of your body and pumps it through a membrane that adds oxygen, removes carbon dioxide and then returns the blood to your body. This is a high-risk therapy with many potential complications. It is not suitable for every ARDS patient. Recovering from ARDS ARDS patients may require ventilation for long periods of time. On average this is seven to 14 days. Beyond this time, doctors may suggest a tube be placed directly into the windpipe through the neck (tracheostomy) by a surgeon. Usually the doctor believes it may take weeks more to recover from ventilator support. This tube can easily be removed once the patient is free of the need for a ventilator. It is important to note that most people survive ARDS. They will not require oxygen on a long-term basis and will regain most of their lung function. Others will struggle with muscle weakness and may require re-hospitalization or pulmonary rehabilitation to regain their strength. For More Information: Consult the ARDS Foundation Questions to Ask Your Doctor about ARDS Because many people with ARDS are hospitalized, it can be helpful to have a caregiver present when consulting your physicians. Ask your doctor the following questions to better understand an ARDS diagnosis: What is the prognosis for survival and discharge from the hospital in ARDS? Just how sick is my family member with ARDS? What are the main risks/side effects of mechanical ventilation? If someone requires mechanical ventilation, how long does it take to be weaned? If my family member has an acute episode of ARDS and can be discharged from the hospital, how long until they reach maximum recovery? What are the chances my family member will be able to recover to their previous level of lifestyle activity? Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/ards
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Lung Diseases
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Learn About Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Alpha- antitrypsin deficiency is a rare genetic disorder that is passed on in families and primarily affects the lungs and liver. Rarely, the skin may be affected as well. When this condition affects the lungs, it causes COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) . Key Facts Alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced by the liver that protects the lungs from inflammation and damage caused by inhaling irritants such as tobacco or wildfire smoke. It is estimated that there are between 80,000 to 100,000 people living with AAT deficiency in the United States, putting them at greater risk for developing COPD. Alpha-1 lung disease is commonly called ‘genetic COPD’ Emphysema caused by AAT deficiency often presents at a younger age There is no cure, but treatment can help people with AAT deficiency manage their symptoms and live a better life. How AAT Deficiency Affects Your Body Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency puts you at greater risk for lung, liver or skin disease. AAT is normally produced in the liver and travels through the blood to protect the lungs and liver from inflammation. AAT deficiency is genetic. Affected individuals inherit a copy of the abnormal gene from each parent. Generally if you have at least one normal copy of the gene, your AAT levels will be adequate. There are different types of genetic mutations that can determine the severity of this disease. The lower the level of circulating AAT protein, the greater the risk of disease. If you have AAT deficiency and you are exposed to irritants such as smoke, air pollution or dust, your lungs can become more easily damaged. This damage can make it harder to breathe and puts you at greater risk of emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Not everyone with AAT deficiency develops emphysema, but anyone who has a family member who has AAT deficiency or was diagnosed with COPD in their 40s or 50s should be tested for alpha-1 lung disease. Even if you have one functioning copy of the AAT gene, exposure to lung pollutants like smoke will cause loss of lung function at a greater rate than in persons without the gene mutation. AAT deficiency is more likely to affect your liver than your lungs. Untreated, it can result in poor liver function and increase your risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. In some people, AAT deficiency may cause frequent red, painful nodules on the skin. Who is at Risk? AAT deficiency is a genetic (inherited) condition, which means it runs in families. Everyone inherits two AAT genes, one from each parent. If each of your parents pass on a mutated AAT gene, you have AAT deficiency. However, if you only receive one mutated AAT gene you become a carrier for AAT deficiency, with a 25% chance of any child you have developing AAT deficiency if your partner is also a carrier. AAT deficiency is more common in white people of Northern-European backgrounds, but anyone of any race or ethnicity can inherit it. People with AAT deficiency are at an increased risk of developing lung disease early in life if they: smoke or use tobacco products are exposed to secondhand smoke work or live in a dusty environment have a family history of emphysema have a personal history of asthma or a history of repeated lung infections. What Are the Symptoms of AAT Deficiency? Symptoms can appear early in life, but many symptoms will not begin until a person reaches middle-age. People with AAT deficiency may have a wide variety of breathing-related symptoms like: Shortness of breath Chronic cough with sputum (mucus or phlegm) production Wheezing Reduced exercise ability Fatigue or tiredness Frequent lung infections like cold or flu When the liver is affected by AAT deficiency, symptoms may include tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss, swelling of the feet or belly, yellowish discoloration of the skin (jaundice) or white part of the eyes, vomiting of blood, or blood in stools. In rare cases, AAT can cause a skin disease called panniculitis, resulting in hardened patches and red, painful lumps. Early diagnosis of AAT deficiency can help prevent COPD from developing. How AAT Deficiency Is Diagnosed AAT deficiency runs in families so if you have family members with AATD, developed COPD in your 40s or 50s, or have liver disease, it is important medical history to discuss with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may order you a blood test to check the level of AAT protein in your bloodstream. People who smoke with AAT deficiency tend to develop disease 10 or more years earlier than people who do not smoke. Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Guidelines recommend that all people with COPD, regardless of age or ethnicity, should be tested for AAT deficiency. If you have a close family member—such as a parent or sibling—with AAT deficiency you should also be screened. Tests and procedures for healthcare provider may perform include: Blood test to check the level of alpha-1 antitrypsin protein in your body. If your levels are low, genetic testing with another blood test may be used to identify any abnormal genes. Lung function tests like a spirometry test cannot diagnose AAT deficiency but it can tell how well a person’s lungs are working. Imaging tests like a chest X-ray or CT scan of your lungs can check for damage in the lungs or rule out other conditions. If your healthcare provider suspects AAT deficiency is affecting the liver, the provider may order blood testing of liver function and in some cases an ultrasound of the liver. If you have low levels of AAT but normal liver and lung function tests, you may not need treatment; however, you will be monitored with repeat testing over time. When to See Your Doctor The symptoms mentioned above may occur with AAT deficiency but are not specific to it. You should consult your healthcare provider if you have any of the symptoms above and especially if you have a family history of liver or lung disease. How AAT Deficiency Is Treated People diagnosed with AAT deficiency before pulmonary symptoms occur usually have better outcomes than those who are diagnosed at later stages and are already experiencing respiratory illness. If you do not have any symptoms, you may be monitored by your healthcare provider and asked to return for regular follow-ups. To determine your treatment plan, your healthcare provider will review the results of other testing and the severity of your symptoms. AAT deficiency management and treatment options may include: Augmentation therapy is a long-term treatment that will increase the levels of AAT in your blood by giving you donated AAT. It cannot reverse lung damage that has already occurred, but it may help to slow lung damage. Augmentation therapy generally requires a weekly infusion and is reserved for those individuals with the lowest AAT levels. Medications may be prescribed to control symptoms of COPD. If needed, antibiotics or inhaled corticosteroids may be recommended to control symptoms of flare-ups, infections or exacerbations. Oxygen therapy may be prescribed to help you get more air into your lungs. Oxygen is transferred from a tank through a tube that fits into the nostrils, or with the help of a mask. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise program designed to help people with chronic lung conditions like COPD maintain optimal activity levels and breathe better. Some people with advanced lung disease may be referred for a lung transplantation . Quit smoking as soon as possible and avoid secondhand smoke. The American Lung Association offers several smoking cessation programs to give people trying to quit the support they need. Protect yourself from environmental dusts or workplace exposure to toxic substances. AAT deficiency research is quickly advancing, so clinical trials are available for people living with the disease. To view available clinical trials for people living with AATD, visit Lung.org/Clinical-Trials . If AAT deficiency affects your liver, you should avoid drinking alcohol. It is important to talk with your healthcare provider about your medications because some medications can cause liver damage. More information More information about AAT deficiency is available from the Alpha-1 Foundation , such as a nationwide network of affiliated support groups for alpha-1 patients and families. Finding Support Communicate regularly with your doctors about changes in your breathing and general health. The Lung Association recommends patients and caregivers join our Living with Lung Disease Support Community or attend Better Breathers Club meetings to connect with others facing this disease. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support. Learn More Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/alpha-1-antitrypsin-deficiency
Asbestosis
Lung Diseases
Asbestosis Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition that is caused by prolonged exposure to high concentrations of asbestos fibers in the air. Though asbestosis is believed to be mostly an occupational disease, there are reports of secondhand exposure to asbestos containing dust. Learn About Asbestosis - Key Facts: Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral used as an insulation material and as a fire retardant. Exposure to asbestos can occur in certain occupations. Inhaling large amounts of asbestos fibers or its dust over a long period of time can produce scarring of lung tissue. This scarring is called asbestosis. Asbestosis is one of over 200 types of pulmonary fibrosis and is also classified as an interstitial lung disease . You may hear your condition referred to by any of these names. The severity of asbestosis depends in part on how long you were exposed to asbestos and the amount you inhaled. There is no cure for asbestosis, but treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. What Causes Asbestosis? Exposure to high levels of asbestos fibers is what causes asbestosis to develop. The airborne fibers and dust can become trapped in the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lung at the end of the airways), where they irritate and scar the lung tissue. Since asbestosis is a progressive disease (meaning it gets worse over time), symptoms may not develop for up to 20 years after exposure. By this time the asbestos has significantly scarred the lung tissue, making it stiff and unable to expand normally. Smoking can increase the amount of damage done by asbestos and speed up the progression of the disease. Who Is at Risk? The main group at risk for asbestosis is people who worked in mining, milling, manufacturing, installation or removal of asbestos products before the late 1970s. With strict regulations in the United States, developing asbestosis from exposure on the job now is much less likely. Nonetheless, many workers in construction and some other industries still face potentially significant workplace exposure, particularly when they work with old equipment or participate in the demolition or renovation of older buildings. Many homes that were built before 1977 may have asbestos in materials such as pipes, popcorn ceiling and floor tiles. Asbestosis does not occur from exposure to asbestos that is not in an inhalable dust form, so as long as the asbestos fibers are contained, it is not harmful, and you are not at risk of developing asbestosis. You can find more information about risk factors and work rules designed to protect workers against asbestos in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website . Asbestosis Symptoms and Diagnosis When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause inflammation and scarring of lung tissues. Prolonged exposure to these fibers may cause the condition asbestosis, one of over 200 types of pulmonary fibrosis which is also classified as an interstitial lung disease. You may hear your condition referred to by any of these names. Because exposure typically occurred at work, it may also be referred to as an occupational lung disease. What Are the Symptoms of Asbestosis? The effects of long-term exposure to asbestos typically don't show up for 10 to 40 years after initial exposure. The most common symptoms are: Shortness of breath Persistent dry cough Chest tightness or chest pain Weight loss from loss of appetite A dry, crackling sound in the lungs while breathing in Wider and rounder than normal fingertips and toes (clubbing) How Is Asbestosis Diagnosed? Asbestosis is usually diagnosed by a careful medical history, exposure history and chest X-ray or CT scan that shows scarring of the lung tissues. This information, along with breathing tests, helps your doctor determine how severe your asbestosis is and how well your lung is functioning. If you have a history of exposure to asbestos and you're experiencing increasing shortness of breath, you should contact your primary care doctor about the possibility of asbestosis. He or she likely will refer you to a doctor specializing in lung problems (pulmonologist). During the visit, your doctor will ask about your breathing, both at rest and during exercise. Your doctor will also ask about your job history in detail to determine how much you were exposed to asbestos. So, it would be a good idea to prepare the following information in advance: Your symptoms and the time they started Treatments given before for the symptoms and how they helped The work you have done over your entire career; the length of time you spent in each job; the nature of the work you performed. The products you were in contact with at work and whether or not you wore protective equipment Smoking history Any old medical records, including chest X-rays or CT scans During the physical examination, your doctor will listen to your lungs to determine if the sounds are normal or not. Your doctor may then order the following tests: Chest X-ray CT scan Lung function test Treating and Managing Asbestosis How Asbestosis Is Treated There is no treatment that can reverse the damage done by asbestos, but certain steps can help slow down progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Avoiding further exposure to asbestos and other irritants such as cigarette smoke will help slow down the disease from progressing. Medication and breathing treatments may be prescribed by your physician to help ease breathlessness and maintain your general lung health. Here are some things your doctor may recommend to manage asbestosis: Quitting smoking as soon as possible. Smoking can increase the damage done by asbestos and speed up the progression of the disease. The American Lung Association offers a number of smoking cessation programs to give people trying to quit the support they need. Oxygen may be prescribed to help you get more air into your lungs. Oxygen is transferred from a tank through a tube that fits into the nostrils, or with the help of a mask. Learn more about oxygen therapy. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise program designed to help all patients with chronic lung conditions maintain optimal activity levels. In very severe situations, your doctor may suggest surgery and refer you to a lung transplant specialist. Managing Asbestosis Your doctor can help manage your symptoms, but you can also take steps to keep yourself healthy by doing the following: Maintain nutrition with a well-balanced diet that limits salt intake and includes drinking lots of water. Get adequate sleep every night and take a short rest during the day if needed. Stay as active as you can by exercising regularly but be careful not to overexert yourself. Prevent infections by washing your hands often and getting flu and pneumonia shots according to your doctor's recommendations. Stay inside when air pollution is severe and pollen counts are high. Avoid breathing pollutants that can trigger shortness of breath, including secondhand smoke, traffic fumes, smog, aerosol sprays, and vapors from products, such as paint, kerosene and cleaning agents. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to avoid breathing in cold air in cold weather. What to Expect You may get sick more often when you have asbestosis. As your disease progresses, you may need to make lifestyle changes such as using oxygen therapy, attending pulmonary rehabilitation and learning to go about your daily life in a way that keeps you from feeling too short of breath. In advanced cases of asbestosis, patients may be hospitalized to help with breathing. As with all lung diseases, it is important to discuss with your doctor how to stay as healthy as possible. If your doctor thinks there may be a point when your asbestosis will cause you to be hospitalized, they might recommend a productive conversation about palliative care options, including filling out an advance directive and taking other steps so that all of your wishes are respected. Finding Support Communicate regularly with your doctors about changes in your breathing and general health. The Lung Association recommends patients and caregivers join our Living with Lung Disease Support Community or Better Breathers Clubs to connect with others facing this disease. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support. Learn More Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asbestosis
Aspergillosis
Lung Diseases
Aspergillosis Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus , a type of mold that is found all over the world. We all inhale Aspergillus spores every day, but they cause illness in only people with preexisting lung disease, a specific immune sensitivity to aspergillus, or weakened immune systems. Learn about Aspergillosis - Key Facts: Aspergillus is a type of mold commonly found indoors and out, in soil, dust, plant material and even food. It is harmless to healthy people but can cause illness in those with lung disease, a specific immune sensitivity to aspergillus, or weakened immune systems. Aspergillosis cannot be spread from person to person. Though most people with a healthy immune system can fight off the infection, anyone with a weakened immune system or underlying lung condition could be at risk of developing aspergillosis. There are three main forms – allergic, chronic and invasive. Who Is at Risk? If you are in good health, your body should be able to defend itself against inhaled Aspergillus spores before they can cause an infection. However, anyone with a weakened immune system or an underlying health condition could be at risk. Certain factors that make you particularly susceptible are: Low white blood cell count. This includes anyone undergoing chemotherapy, who is living with HIV/AIDS, who has had an organ transplant or patients with leukemia. Long-term lung disease, such as COPD or tuberculosis, that may cause cavities in lung tissue where the infection can take hold. Having asthma or cystic fibrosis, that can make you more susceptible to having an immune sensitivity to the Aspergillus mold. Long term use of corticosteroids or other immune-suppressing medications. What Causes it? Aspergillus , the mold that causes the disease, is found everywhere, indoors and outdoors. For people with a healthy immune system, it rarely causes a problem because their body can destroy the spores. That is why people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk—they are unable to fight off the infection before the fungus invades the lungs and other parts of the body. How Aspergillosis Affects the Body Aspergillosis severity varies depending on what form you have. There are three main categories—allergic, chronic and invasive. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis occurs when people develop an immune sensitivity to aspergillus after inhaling the mold. While not common, this disease tends to be seen more often in people with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis occurs in people who already have a chronic lung condition, such as TB, emphysema, COPD or advanced sarcoidosis. The fungus starts to grow in existing cavities in the lung caused by the underlying lung disease. Over time, the aspergillosis may cause these cavities to enlarge and increase in number. This process can also damage or alter the blood vessels in the lungs, which can result in bleeding. Invasive aspergillosis is the most uncommon but most severe form of the disease because it affects all parts of the body. This is most common in someone with a weakened immune system, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy or people who have had an organ transplant. In these patients, the infection spreads rapidly from the lungs to the brain, heart, kidneys or skin, and can be life-threatening. Aspergillosis Symptoms and Diagnosis - What are the Symptoms of Aspergillosis The signs and symptoms of aspergillosis vary depending on the specific form. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis has symptoms similar to asthma. They include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. In chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, it usually takes a while for patients to develop symptoms. When they finally do emerge, symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue and weight loss. It is also common for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis patients to develop a tangled mass of fungus fibers called an aspergilloma or “fungus ball” in cavities within the lungs. Symptoms that accompany this growth are frequent and bloody coughing as well as shortness of breath. Because patients with invasive aspergillosis usually suffer from other medical conditions, it can be hard to identify symptoms related to the aspergillosis infection. Symptoms may also differ depending on what organs are affected as the infection spreads. However, they commonly include coughing up blood, fever and chills, headaches, chest pain and shortness of breath. Additionally, Aspergillus can cause localized infections of the nails, eyes, skin, sinuses or ear canals. How Aspergillosis Is Diagnosed When diagnosing aspergillosis, your doctor will want to consider your risk factors and medical history in conjunction with your symptoms and a physical exam. Then, they may suggest lab tests including skin, blood and sputum tests. Imaging tests such as a chest X-ray or CT scan can help with diagnosis because your doctor may be able to spot a nodule or fungal mass on your lung, caused by the mold, that would prompt your doctor to do further testing. If they are still unsure, a tissue biopsy may be the best way to get a clear diagnosis. Treating and Preventing Aspergillosis How Aspergillosis Is Treated In patients with milder forms of the disease who are experiencing fewer symptoms, the infection may not require treatment and eventually clear up on its own. A single fungal ball, for example, may persist unchanged for a long time without treatment. It is recommended that, in these cases, your doctor monitor you to ensure that the disease does not progress. If treatment is required, your doctor’s recommendation will depend on the type that is diagnosed. If you are diagnosed with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, an antifungal medication, such as itraconazole, is the most common course of action. If it is not effective, your doctor may suggest an oral corticosteroid as an alternative medication. For chronic pulmonary aspergillosis patients who develop a fungal ball, surgery is the best option if the mass is in a good location to be removed. Though sometimes prescribed, antifungal medications have been found to have little effect. In the most severe cases, a combination of antifungal medication and surgery may be necessary. Other medications that are suppressing the immune system may also need to be discontinued during treatment. Your doctor will help you determine the correct treatment for you. Preventing Aspergillosis Though it can be difficult to avoid exposure to Aspergillus , if you have severe lung disease or a weakened immune system, you should take special precautions, such as minimizing your exposure to soil and dust. If you are at high risk, your doctor may suggest taking antifungal drugs as a preventive measure. Visit our mold and dampness page for more information about how to handle mold infestation safely. Finding Support If you have questions about your diagnosis or what to expect, you can call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with support. Learn More Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/aspergillosis
Asthma
Lung Diseases
Asthma Asthma makes breathing difficult for millions of Americans. There is no cure, but it can be managed and treated so you can live a normal, healthy life. Learn About Asthma The more you can learn about asthma, the better you and your loved ones can manage living with this disease, making the most of every day and maintaining a high quality of life. Asthma is a chronic (or lifelong) disease that can be serious—even life-threatening. There is no cure for asthma. The good news is that with proper management, you or your loved one with asthma can live a normal, healthy life. What Is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of your lungs. Key Points Asthma is chronic. In other words, you live with it every day. It can be serious, even life-threatening. There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed so you live a normal, healthy life. How Asthma Affects Your Body With asthma, there is always a little bit of swelling inside the airways of your lungs. This makes the airways extra sensitive when exposed to viruses, allergens, irritants or even emotions. Learn more about how the air we breathe plays a role in our health . Asthma Flare-Ups During an asthma flare-up, the insides of your airways swell even more and can produce extra mucus. This narrows the space for the air to move in and out of the lungs. The muscles that wrap around your airways also can tighten, making breathing even harder. When that happens, it is called an asthma flare-up, asthma episode or asthma "attack." After an asthma flare-up, you probably will feel tired. You're also at greater risk of having another flare-up for several days after an episode. For the days following a flare-up, be sure to: Avoid your asthma triggers Monitor your symptoms or check you airways using a peak flow meter Airway Remodeling Poor asthma management can lead to airway remodeling. Airway remodeling is a serious condition that happens when asthma is untreated or poorly managed. The lungs become scarred, asthma medicines do not work as well and less air is able to move through your airways. Airway remodeling does not have to happen. Work with a healthcare professional to minimize asthma flare-ups and find a treatment plan that works for you. Take control of your asthma . Asthma can start at any age. Sometimes, people have asthma when they are very young and as their lungs develop, the symptoms go away, but it is possible that it will come back later in life. Sometimes people get asthma for the first time when they are older. Learn The Basics If you are a person living with asthma, a friend, family member or co-worker of someone with asthma, or a frontline healthcare professional, take some time to learn more about asthma by participating in our online learning module, Asthma Basics. Also available in Spanish. Take Asthma Basics Asthma Causes & Risk Factors A combination of genetics and exposure to certain elements in the environment put people at the greatest risk of developing asthma for the first time. The most common factors for developing asthma are having a parent with asthma, having a severe respiratory infection as a child, having an allergic condition, or being exposed to certain chemical irritants or industrial dusts in the workplace. What Causes Asthma? Scientists continue to explore what causes asthma, but we do know that these factors play an important role in the development of asthma: Family history If you have a parent with asthma, you are three to six times more likely to develop asthma than someone who does not have a parent with asthma. Allergies Some people are more likely to develop allergies than others, especially if one of their parents has allergies. Certain allergic conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or allergic rhinitis (hay fever), are linked to people who get asthma. Viral respiratory infections Respiratory problems during infancy and childhood can cause wheezing. Some children who experience viral respiratory infections go on to develop chronic asthma. Occupational exposures If you have asthma, exposures to certain elements in the workplace can cause asthma symptoms. And, for some people, exposure to certain dusts (industrial or wood dusts), chemical fumes and vapors, and molds can cause asthma to develop for the very first time. Smoking Cigarette smoke irritates the airways. Smokers have a high risk of asthma. Those whose mothers smoked during pregnancy or who were exposed to secondhand smoke are also more likely to have asthma. Learn more about the health effects of smoking with asthma Air Pollution Exposure to the main component of smog (ozone) raises the risk for asthma. Those who grew up or live in urban areas have a higher risk for asthma. Obesity Children and adults who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk of asthma . Although the reasons are unclear, some experts point to low-grade inflammation in the body that occurs with extra weight. Obese patients often use more medications, suffer worse symptoms and are less able to control their asthma than patients in a healthy weight range. While these factors increase a person's risk for developing the disease, there are additional factors, such as poverty and lack of health insurance, that contribute to more asthma symptoms, emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Learn more about ways to improve asthma by understanding the risks related to exposure to things in the environment that are known to make asthma worse and management steps . Virtual Home Assessments Indoor air quality plays a crucial role in asthma management. The Lung Association’s Environmental Improvements for COPD and Asthma virtual home assessment program helps identify and address indoor air pollutants and allergens to better manage asthma symptoms. Learn more about available virtual home assessment programs in your state. Learn more about virtual home assessments Types of Asthma Understanding your type of asthma can help with treatment and management. Today, asthma is no longer thought of as a single disease. Asthma is often categorized into different types. They include: Allergic asthma Aspirin-induced asthma Cough-variant asthma Exercise-induced asthma Nighttime asthma Steroid-resistant asthma Occupational asthma Depending on the type of asthma, there are different management steps and treatment options that can help. The Role of Inflammation Researchers have started to look deeper at the role that inflammation plays in asthma. They believe that all people with asthma have some degree of inflammation of the airways. They have categorized these into four biological pathways of inflammation, or endotypes: Eosinophilic Neutrophilic Mixed eosinophilic and neutrophilic Non-inflammatory (Paucigranulocytic) Do I Have Severe Asthma? Some people do not respond well to inhaled corticosteroids or other long-term controller medicines, a sign that you are suffering from severe asthma. It is important to talk to your doctor to determine if your symptoms signal severe asthma or are just uncontrolled asthma. Learn more about severe asthma. Severe Asthma Treatment Planning Tool Answer questions about your asthma and download a worksheet help you have conversations about treatment. Get started Exercise-Induced Asthma Some people with asthma only have symptoms (e.g., shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing or coughing) during exercise or when doing physically demanding tasks. This is called exercise-induced asthma or exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB). Learn more about exercise and asthma . Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS) ACOS is diagnosed when you have symptoms of both asthma and COPD. ACOS is not a separate disease, but rather a way for doctors to recognize the mix of symptoms and select a treatment plan that is most appropriate for you. Learn more about ACOS. Is Your Asthma Under Control? Answer these short questions to determine your overall asthma control. Use the downloadable summary as a guide to talk with your healthcare provider about asthma treatment options and how to improve control. Take quiz Asthma Trends Brief This report presents descriptions, figures, and links to more detailed tables on trends and current patterns of the burden of asthma among adults and children. Asthma, a serious chronic lung disease affecting 26.8 million adults and 4.5 million children, causes inflamed airways during episodes, leading to millions of hospitalizations and healthcare costs annually. Asthma Trends and Burden Asthma mortality, prevalence, and healthcare use trends and demographic comparisons, and missed school and work days and economic costs. View Trends Current Asthma Demographics Current asthma rates by demographic groups and state. View Rates Index of Tables See a complete list of all the data tables available in this brief. View Tables Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma
Atelectasis
Lung Diseases
Atelectasis Atelectasis (pronounced at-uh-LEK-tuh-sis) happens when the tiny air sacs or alveoli in your lungs are blocked, and it causes a partial or full collapse of one or more lobes or sections of the lungs. Atelectasis is more common in people who had recent surgery under general anesthesia. Anesthesia, a medication that puts you to sleep during surgery, may affect your ability to breathe deeply or cough effectively to remove the mucus that builds up in your airways. Other causes may include A small object blocking the airways (like food or toy) Mucus plugs (buildup of mucus in the airway) Tumor (which blocks the airway) Pleural effusion (fluid between the chest wall and lungs) Prolonged bed rest Pre-existing lung condition Lung infection like pneumonia Signs and symptoms of atelectasis often depend on the severity of the collapse. Some people may have a mild form and do not experience symptoms. If atelectasis affects a larger part of your lungs, you are more likely to experience symptoms. Symptoms associated with atelectasis include shortness of breath , cough that may bring up mucus, wheezing, chest pain, or low oxygen levels. You should seek medical attention immediately if you are short of breath, have trouble breathing, have an object stuck in your airway, or experience other symptoms or signs of atelectasis. Atelectasis can be diagnosed with a chest x-ray . To find the severity or type of atelectasis, your provider may recommend other diagnostic tests or procedures. A CT scan can also help get a better picture of the lungs. A bronchoscopy is a technique used if there is a suspected blockage or obstruction in the airway. It can be used to look inside the lungs and may be able to remove the blockage. An arterial blood gas test can check the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. The goal of treatment is to relieve or remove the blockage in the airways and re-inflate the lungs. Mild forms of atelectasis may not require any treatment. If mucus build up is the cause, you may use medication to open your airways, an incentive spirometer, and techniques to loosen the mucus in the airways (chest percussion, assisted cough, etc). An incentive spirometer is a medical device often given after surgery and may help prevent lung infections and clear mucus from the lungs. If an object is causing the blockage, it must be removed. Your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options if atelectasis is caused by a tumor, an aspirated foreign body, or other chronic lung conditions. Serious complications may occur if atelectasis remains untreated. Complications can include low oxygen levels, pneumonia, or lung failure. Many cases clear up in 24-48 hours, however more severe cases may take longer to resolve. Talk with your healthcare provider about how long to continue using any medications or mucus clearance techniques. Keep any follow-up appointments to monitor your health condition. If a tumor is causing atelectasis or you have an underlying lung condition, discuss with your provider ways to manage and treat the condition. Talk to an Expert Our Helpline is staffed by registered nurses and respiratory therapists ready to answer your lung health questions. Connect with us by phone, email, or live chat. Contact the HELPLINE Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/atelectasis
Blastomycosis
Lung Diseases
Blastomycosis Blastomycosis is an uncommon, but potentially serious infection caused by the fungus Blastomyces . This fungus lives in moist soil and decomposing plant matter such as leaves or wood. You are most likely to be exposed to it if you are in central or eastern United States. Learn About Blastomycosis - Key Facts Blastomyces is a fungus that grows in moist soil and rotting wood, and when inhaled, about half of the people exposed become sick with blastomycosis. Blastomycosis is a type of pneumonia caused by Blastomyces that is more likely to make people over 50, those who are living with a chronic lung disease or who have a weakened immune system seriously ill. Blastomycosis is treatable, but your healthcare provider must test for it. How Blastomycosis Affects Your Body You can get sick with blastomycosis by inhaling microscopic fungal spores, called Blastomyces that live in the environment in moist soil and decomposing plant matter like wood and leaves. They are released into the air by activities and weather events that disturb the soil or plant material. Once the inhaled spores enter your lungs, they are warmed up by your body temperature and turn into yeast. This yeast may stay in your lungs and cause fungal pneumonia or spread through your bloodstream to other parts of your body. Blastomycosis is not contagious, meaning it is not spread from one person to the next. It used to be called Gilchrist disease or Chicago disease. Who Is at Risk? There are two types of risk factors to consider: Risk of exposure: Anyone can get blastomycosis if you spend time in an area where Blastomyces lives and are doing outdoor activities that may disrupt areas where the fungal spores are accumulating, predominantly near lakes or rivers. Blastomyces lives in the Central and Eastern parts of the United States. Wisconsin and Minnesota typically record the highest number of illnesses. Some hobbies place you at increased risk, such as hiking, camping, fishing or riding an all-terrain vehicle. Some jobs place you at increased risk such as if you work at a construction or excavation site, or work in forestry. Risk of infection: Certain individuals are more likely to become seriously ill from Blastomyces , including people who: Have a weakened immune system due to pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, have had an organ transplant or are on certain long-term medications such as corticosteroids. Are living with COPD or another chronic lung disease. Are older than 50. Have a racial or ethnic background including American Indian, Alaskan Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. Blastomycosis Symptoms and Diagnosis What Are the Symptoms of Blastomycosis? Blastomycosis is a specific type of fungal pneumonia. Approximately 50% of people with blastomycosis do not have any symptoms. For those who do, symptoms typically start anywhere from three weeks to three months after exposure, can vary from mild to severe, and almost always begin in the lungs. Your initial symptoms may include: Fever Chills Cough Shortness of breath Night sweats Muscle and joint pain Chest pain Fatigue (tiredness) Untreated, these symptoms can progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome or an invasive infection. An invasive infection happens when Blastomyces spores travel via your bloodstream and impact other body parts including your skin, bones, spinal cord and brain. These complications can be fatal. Blastomycosis is often initially misdiagnosed. The symptoms are non-specific, meaning they do not point to a single cause of illness, so your healthcare provider is likely to start you on a course of antibiotic treatment for the most common cause of pneumonia. However, only antifungal medications can treat fungal pneumonia so unless you have the correct diagnosis you will be taking a medication that doesn’t work for your illness. If you have taken more than one course of antibiotics, are still experiencing symptoms and were potentially exposed to Blastomyces, ask your healthcare provider about testing for fungal pneumonia. The best way to avoid becoming severely ill is to tell your healthcare provider when you are experiencing initial symptoms, and if your symptoms do not resolve, so you can begin appropriate treatment. How Blastomycosis is Diagnosed The first thing your healthcare provider will do is take a detailed medical history, including any travel history and potential exposure. Then they will complete a physical examination and analyze your symptoms. To diagnosis blastomycosis, your healthcare provider may take a sample of your blood, saliva, skin, urine or sputum (mucus you cough up from your lungs). They will send the sample to a lab to look for Blastomyces yeast, test for signs of Blastomyces or try to grow Blastomyces. They may also use a chest x-ray or CT scan to look at your lungs and may request a lung biopsy. For Healthcare Providers The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have created clinical diagnostic algorithms for blastomycosis. You can also download a PDF of the algorithm to help with diagnosis. Diagnostic Algorithms Download Resource Treating and Preventing Blastomycosis How Blastomycosis is Treated Half of the people infected with Blastomycosis never develop symptoms. In mild and moderate cases, blastomycosis needs to be treated with antifungal medication. You may be on medication for as few as a couple weeks, or in some cases, a year or longer. This depends on how ill you are, if the fungus has spread beyond your lungs and your overall health status, including if you are currently living with a chronic lung disease or have a compromised immune system. It will be important to maintain communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms once you begin treatment. If your shortness of breath and cough aren’t getting better after a week, or if you experience new symptoms that are worrisome, your healthcare provider needs to know. Signs of serious illness that require care at an emergency department include severe shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, seizures, confusion and high fever. Recovery from blastomycosis may take weeks, months or even a year or more. iframe video Recovery from serious lung infections, such as pneumonia, can take longer than you expect. Learn what you can do to help your body recover, when to reach out to your healthcare provider and how to help prevent future infections. Watch Video Preventing Blastomycosis There isn’t a reliable test to determine if a specific area has Blastgomyces , so it’s best to simply be aware of where it is commonly found. This includes most of central and eastern United States. Among those areas, Wisconsin and Minnesota record the highest number of illnesses. There aren’t very many practical measures to prevent exposure. There are a few things you can do to lower your risk of exposure, including avoiding large areas of dirt and near water. And if you aren’t able to do that, you could wear an N95 mask to help filter the air you breathe. Learn More: Avoiding Diseases From the Dirt (blog) Finding Support To talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support, call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA. For more severe or chronic forms of blastomycosis, join an in-person or virtual support group through the Better Breathers Clubs , become a member of the Patient & Caregiver Network which is an online support program through the American Lung Association, and connect with others on our Living with Lung Disease Support Community page . Learn More Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/blastomycosis
Bronchiectasis
Lung Diseases
Bronchiectasis Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition where the walls of your airways (bronchi) widen and are thickened from inflammation and infection. Early diagnosis and treatment of bronchiectasis and any underlying condition is important for preventing further damage to your lungs. Learn About Bronchiectasis - Key Facts Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition where the lung’s airways become permanently damaged and widened. Bronchiectasis affects 350,000 to 500,000 adults in the United States. The risk of developing bronchiectasis increases with age. Bronchiectasis is more common in women than in men; and older adults are at increased risk. Although there is no cure for bronchiectasis, getting the correct treatment as early as possible can help you have the best possible quality of life. iframe video Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease causing your airways, called bronchi, to become damaged and widened over time. There is no cure but getting on the right treatment path will help you manage your disease, avoid flare-ups and live your best life. Watch Video How Bronchiectasis Affects Your Body Each time you breathe, air travels within your lungs through airways called bronchi. When you have bronchiectasis your airway walls (bronchi) become irreversibly thickened and damaged. As more walls become scarred, the bronchi are no longer able to effectively drain normal secretions, so mucus builds up and becomes a breeding ground for germs. This creates a vicious cycle of inflammation and infection that can damage your lungs. Bronchiectasis may occur throughout your lung or only in certain airways. The more widespread the damage, the more serious the disease. What Causes Bronchiectasis? Although the cause of bronchiectasis is not known in about 40% of the cases, it is often brought on by damage from another condition that affects the lungs. An airway blockage, like a growth or a noncancerous tumor, can lead to bronchiectasis. Though it is often linked to cystic fibrosis , many other conditions can trigger bronchiectasis such as: Autoimmune disease Immunodeficiency disorders, such as HIV or diabetes Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency which can cause COPD in some people Diseases that affect the cilia, the small, hair-like structures that line your airways and whose main function is to clear mucus Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis which is a type of allergic lung inflammation of the airways Chronic pulmonary aspiration, problems with swallowing that cause food or fluids to get into the lungs and leads to inflamed airways Recurring infections that can cause damage to the airway walls include: Pneumonia Pertussis (Whooping cough) Tuberculosis Fungal infections Bronchiectasis Symptoms and Diagnosis - What Are the Symptoms of Bronchiectasis? Symptoms of bronchiectasis can take months or years to develop and gradually become worse. The two primary symptoms are: A daily cough that occurs for at least eight weeks Daily production of mucus (sputum). Other symptoms typically include: Coughing up yellow or green mucus daily Shortness of breath Fatigue, feeling run-down or tired Fevers and/or chills Wheezing or whistling sound while you breathe Chest pain Clubbing, or the thickening of the skin under fingernails and toenails A less common symptom that may develop over time is coughing up blood or mucus mixed with blood, a condition called hemoptysis. Top Five Bronchiectasis Facts You Need to Know People living with this disease share insight into diagnosis and living with this disease. Read the blog How Is Bronchiectasis Diagnosed? Bronchiectasis is an under-diagnosed condition with many patients being incorrectly diagnosed with other lung diseases. Early diagnosis is important to prevent further lung damage. If your healthcare provider suspects bronchiectasis, they will want a detailed family history and blood tests to determine whether you may have an underlying condition that could cause bronchiectasis. These blood tests can also tell your healthcare provider if you have low levels of infection-fighting blood cells. Other assessments that your healthcare team may recommend: A chest X-ray or CT scan are the most common ways to diagnose bronchiectasis. Both tests create detailed images of your lungs, heart or airways. Lung function tests can determine how well your lungs are working. A sputum culture can tell your provider if bacteria are in your lungs. A sweat test may be ordered to determine if you have cystic fibrosis. In severe cases when bronchiectasis isn’t responding to treatment, doctors may recommend a bronchoscopy . This flexible, narrow tube is inserted into the airways to help find blockages and sources of infection. When to See Your Healthcare Provider If you have not been diagnosed with a respiratory disease and have a daily cough, daily production of mucus, or any respiratory symptoms that concern you. If you have been diagnosed with another respiratory condition and your symptoms are not well managed with your current treatment plan. Once you have been diagnosed with bronchiectasis, you should see your healthcare provider for regularly scheduled visits. If you are coughing up blood or have severe shortness of breath it is considered a medical emergency and you should seek help immediately. Treating and Managing Bronchiectasis - How Is Bronchiectasis Treated? The goal of bronchiectasis treatment is to treat any underlying conditions, prevent lung infections, remove excess mucus , and prevent flare-ups, also called exacerbations. This is done with a combination of medication, hydration and airway clearing techniques with a goal to prevent any further damage to the airways. Medication Specific for Bronchiectasis Antibiotics Other Medications Mucus Thinning Airway Clearance Devices and Chest Physical Therapy Airway Clearance Techniques Other Treatment Options How to Manage Bronchiectasis Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition, meaning it will not go away; however, it can be well managed. It is important to follow the treatment plan established by your healthcare provider. You should also work closely with your healthcare provider to determine healthy habits that will help manage your symptoms and decrease the risk of flare-ups. To better manage your disease: Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Avoid air pollution and other toxic fumes. Maintain a healthy diet, low in sodium, added sugars, saturated fats and refined grains. Stay hydrated, drinking plenty of water to help prevent mucus build-up. Take your prescribed oral and inhaled medications as directed by your provider and perform mucus clearance techniques daily. Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations . Take antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider during flare-ups. Stay active and talk to your provider about what activity is right for you. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, occasional flare-ups may occur. This often happens because of a new respiratory infection or overgrowth of bacteria. Symptoms such as increased mucus (sputum) that is bloody or a different color, fever, fatigue, weight loss and worsening shortness of breath may be a sign you’re experiencing a flare-up. In these instances, you should contact your healthcare provider right away to discuss further treatment options. Finding Support The Lung Association recommends patients and caregivers join our Living with Lung Disease Support Community, Patient & Caregiver Network or a Better Breathers Club to connect with others facing this disease. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with support. Learn More Newly Diagnosed with Bronchiectasis - Take These Important First Steps It is helpful to learn about bronchiectasis , what your treatment options are and how it is managed. Talk to your healthcare provider about your diagnosis to better understand how it will impact your life and what steps you can take to ensure you have the best quality of life. Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition without a cure, so starting the right treatment will help you have the best possible health outcomes. Featured Resource: Health Journal Use this fillable digital health journal to help achieve your wellness goals. If you have been diagnosed with bronchiectasis, call the Lung HelpLine 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872 and press 2) to have this FREE journal mailed to you or download here. Get Journal Take Care of Yourself Staying healthy when you are living with a chronic lung disease is important so that your condition does not get worse and you decrease the risk of damaging your lungs. You should talk to your healthcare provider to ensure you understand what your treatment plan is and how often you should see your provider to best manage your disease. Ask your provider to explain how any medications you are prescribed will help you and make sure you understand what side effects to expect so you can better manage them. If your provider is recommending airway clearance techniques, also called mucus clearing, make sure you understand what this means and how to do it. You can take these actions to following a healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking and avoid exposure to tobacco smoke. Avoid exposure to unhealthy air, both indoors and outdoors . Choose healthy foods. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Talk to your healthcare provider about how much fluid is right for you. Avoid respiratory infections through hand washing, staying away from others who are sick and getting vaccinations that are recommended by your healthcare provider. Stay active. Talk to your healthcare provider about what activity is right for you. Connect with Others No person facing a chronic lung disease should go through it alone. There are online and in-person support groups available. Finding a group early in your journey will provide you with more opportunities to get information about your disease, empower you to better manage your disease and give you the support you need. Living with Lung Disease Community (online support community) Better Breathers Clubs (in-person or virtual support groups) Patient & Caregivers Network Lung HelpLine You can also call the Lung Association's Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions about bronchiectasis and connect you with support. Contact the HELPLINE Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchiectasis
Bronchiolitis
Lung Diseases
Bronchiolitis Bronchiolitis develops when small airways in the lungs become injured or inflamed. The easy passage of air is blocked, which may cause shortness of breath and cough. It's most often caused by viral infections and is common among young children. Learn About Bronchiolitis Bronchioles are small airways that connect your airways (bronchi) to tiny air sacs of the lung. When these small airways swell, it is called bronchiolitis. Key Facts Infants younger than 3 months of age are at greatest risk of getting bronchiolitis. Bronchiolitis is caused by a viral infection and can almost always be treated at home. It usually takes about 2 or 3 weeks for the infection to go away. A small percentage of children develop a more serious illness that requires hospitalization. How Bronchiolitis Affects Your Body Bronchiolitis develops when an infection causes the very small airways in the lungs (the bronchioles) to become swollen and filled with mucus. This makes it hard to get air into the lungs, which may result in shortness of breath and coughing. A second type of bronchiolitis, called bronchiolitis obliterans , is a rare and dangerous condition seen primarily in adults. What Causes Bronchiolitis? Bronchiolitis is almost always the result of a viral infection. Many infections could lead to bronchiolitis, though the most common culprit is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) . The viruses that cause bronchiolitis are highly contagious, and outbreaks typically occur in the winter. Who Is at Risk? Infants, especially those under 3 months old are at the greatest risk because their lungs and immune system are not fully developed. Other factors that may make a child more susceptible include: Premature birth Underlying health conditions, especially heart and lung-related Exposure to tobacco smoke Contact with other children who are sick, such as in child care settings Bronchiolitis Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment - What Are the Symptoms of Bronchiolitis? When symptoms of bronchiolitis first occur, they are usually similar to that of a common cold. Runny nose, fever, stuffy nose, loss of appetite and cough are the first signs of the infection. Symptoms may worsen after a few days and may include wheezing, shortness of breath, and worsening of the cough. Young children who get very sick may have trouble breathing and trouble swallowing. You should consult your doctor if your child shows signs of trouble breathing, dehydration such as dry mouth, crying without tears, or producing less urine than normal. If your child experiences severe symptoms like blue lips or skin, pauses in breathing or respiratory failure, call 911 immediately. How Bronchiolitis Is Diagnosed Doctors will usually start with a basic physical exam when determining if a child has bronchiolitis. Additional tests may be necessary if symptoms are severe. A chest X-ray may be needed to look for signs of pneumonia. A blood test may be needed to check white blood cell count for signs of infection. A doctor may take a nose swab to test your child’s mucus in an attempt to identify the virus that is causing the infection. How Bronchiolitis Is Treated There are no vaccines or specific treatments for bronchiolitis. Antibiotics and cold medicine are not effective in treating bronchiolitis. Most cases go away on their own and can be cared for at home. It is key that your child drinks lots of fluids to avoid dehydration. To aid your infant’s breathing, your doctor may recommend saline nose drops. Using a suction bulb to clear your child’s nasal airways is also a simple solution. Your doctor may recommend acetaminophen if they develop a fever. About three percent of children with bronchiolitis will need to be hospitalized. Here the child may be put on humidified oxygen and receive fluids through an IV to prevent dehydration. For the most severe cases, the child may have to have a tube inserted into the windpipe to aid breathing. Most children will be sent home between 2 and 8 days in the hospital. How to Prevent Bronchiolitis Because the virus that causes bronchiolitis is contagious, the best way to prevent it is by washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. It is important to limit your child’s contact with people who have respiratory infections and to clean and disinfect surfaces often. Additionally, it has been suggested that breastfed babies may have higher immunity, as well as children who are not exposed to secondhand smoke. Finding Support You can call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support. Learn More Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis Obliterans (Popcorn Lung)
Lung Diseases
Bronchiolitis Obliterans (Popcorn Lung) Bronchiolitis obliterans is a chronic lung disease that also goes by the nickname “popcorn lung.” The condition damages the tiniest airways in your lungs (bronchioles), causing coughing and shortness of breath. Learn About Bronchiolitis Obliterans - Key Facts: Bronchiolitis obliterans is a rare chronic lung disease that worsens over time. This disease was first discovered in workers at a microwave popcorn plant who had inhaled the flavoring chemical diacetyl. That is how bronchiolitis obliterans became known as ‘popcorn lung’. Exposure to other chemicals, some lung infections, autoimmune diseases and complications from lung transplants can also cause bronchiolitis obliterans. It is important to note that the similarly named bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP), now referred to as Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia (COP) , is a completely different disease. How it Affects Your Body The very small airways of the lungs are called bronchioles. Bronchioles can become injured as a result of inhaling a harmful substance, due to an infection, from an autoimmune response or as a complication to a lung transplant. Most of the time, the injury heals normally. Occasionally the body’s repair process becomes overactive, causing the build-up of scar tissue. The thick scar tissue blocks the bronchioles and prevents air from passing through to the alveoli, also called air sacs. This makes it harder for the body to absorb oxygen. The scarring and narrowing of the bronchioles may continue to worsen over time. If left untreated, it could result in irreversible lung damage and respiratory failure. What Causes Bronchiolitis Obliterans Bronchiolitis obliterans is most commonly caused by breathing in toxicants over time. Diacetyl is a frequent cause of exposure that and can be found in artificial butter flavoring and odor products such as popcorn, cake mixes and candy. It also is found in tobacco smoke, flavored tobacco products and vaping products. Some other toxicants linked to causing bronchiolitis obliterans are: Acetaldehyde, found in cannabis and e-cigarette smoke Formaldehyde, a highly irritating chemical used in adhesives and building materials and emitted from e-cigarette smoke Metal oxide fumes, a byproduct of welding Sulfur dioxide, released by burning fossil fuels Ammonia Chlorine Nitrogen oxides Hydrochloric acid Mustard gas, or sulfur mustard Besides environmental exposure, bronchiolitis obliterans can be caused by severe respiratory infections, such as RSV , and some forms of pneumonia or bronchitis . If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, you are also at a higher risk of developing bronchiolitis obliterans. If you have had a lung transplant , you are at risk of developing the condition if your body rejects the new organ. About 50% of recipients of a lung transplant develop the condition within five years. This is called bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome. Some people who have a bone marrow transplant from a donor may also develop this condition. This occurs in about 10% of people receiving a bone marrow transplant and typically develops within five years of their transplant. Bronchiolitis Obliterans Symptoms and Diagnosis - What Are the Symptoms of Bronchiolitis Obliterans? Not everyone with bronchiolitis obliterans will have symptoms. When symptoms are present the most common symptoms include: Shortness of breath , Dry cough Wheezing Fatigue Symptoms will normally develop over a few weeks or months and can flare up while exercising or doing manual labor. Depending on the exposure, other parts of the body may experience irritation. For example, a skin rash may develop in addition to respiratory problems. As the condition progresses, symptoms will worsen. How Bronchiolitis Obliterans Is Diagnosed Symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans are similar to other lung diseases which is why your healthcare provider will need a detailed medical history, including the mention of any possible environmental exposure, to determine if bronchiolitis obliterans is likely. Additionally, your provider will need to do a physical exam and listen to your breathing. They will order diagnostic tests such as a chest X-ray or CT scan of the chest, as well as non-invasive lung function tests to measure the amount of air you can breathe in and out. If the diagnosis is still unclear, a lung biopsy may be necessary. Treating and Managing Bronchiolitis Obliterans - How Bronchiolitis Obliterans Is Treated Bronchiolitis obliterans is an irreversible and chronic condition, with available treatments that can slow progression and reduce the severity of your symptoms. It is important to catch the disease early when treatment is more likely to keep the disease from worsening. If the disease was caused by breathing in a harmful chemical, it is essential to reduce your exposure to that chemical and any other toxin. Your healthcare provider may recommend the following treatment options. Corticosteroids, specifically prednisone, are the most common treatment of bronchiolitis obliterans. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation through suppressing the immune system. Bronchodilators relax the muscles around the airways or breathing tubes which work to help open the airways. When the airways are more open, it helps you breathe easier. Steroids are strong medications used to fight inflammation. They work by suppressing the immune system. Steroids may be prescribed when your symptoms are more severe. Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to increase low blood oxygen levels. If your condition worsens, is life threatening and does not respond to other treatment options, your provider may recommend a lung transplant. How to Manage Bronchiolitis Obliterans Bronchiolitis obliterans is a chronic condition, meaning it will not go away. It is important to follow the treatment plan established by your healthcare provider. You should also work closely with your healthcare provider to determine healthy habits that will help manage your symptoms and decrease the risk of flare-ups. Some suggestions include: If the disease was caused by breathing in a harmful chemical, reduce or eliminate your exposure to that chemical and any other toxin Quit smoking , e-cigarettes, vaping Avoid secondhand smoke and air pollution Stay healthy by avoiding people who are sick and if you do get sick, let your healthcare provider know so you can get timely treatment Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations . Finding Support The Lung Association recommends chronic disease patients and caregivers seek support from their community. Learn better ways to cope with your lung condition by joining a Better Breather’s Club. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with support. Learn More Newly Diagnosed with Bronchiolitis Obliterans - Find Out More About Bronchiolitis Obliterans If you are newly diagnosed, it is helpful to learn about bronchiolitis obliterans , what your treatment options are and how it is managed. Talk to your healthcare provider about your diagnosis to better understand how it will impact your life and what steps you can take to ensure you have the best quality of life. Take Care of Yourself Staying healthy when you are living with a chronic lung disease is important so that you avoid flare ups, your condition doesn’t worsen and you decrease the risk of damaging your lungs. You can take these steps to following a healthy lifestyle: Quit smoking , e-cigarettes, and vaping Avoid exposure to unhealthy air, both indoors and outdoors Avoid infections through hand washing, staying away from others who are sick, and getting vaccinations that are recommended by your healthcare provider Choose healthy foods and stay active; talk to your healthcare provider about what activity is right for you Connect with Others No person facing a chronic lung disease should go through it alone. There are online and in-person support groups available. Finding a group early in your journey will provide you with more opportunities to get information about your disease, empower you to better manage your disease, and give you the support you need. Living with Lung Disease Community (online support community) Better Breathers Clubs (in-person or virtual support groups) You can also call the Lung Association's Lung Helpline at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions about bronchiolitis obliterans and they can help connect you with support. Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/popcorn-lung
Bronchitis (Acute)
Lung Diseases
Bronchitis (Acute) Commonly known as bronchitis, acute bronchitis is a form of lower respiratory infection that affects the air tubes (bronchi) of the lungs. It usually comes on suddenly and lasts for a week to 10 days. This is very different from chronic bronchitis , which is a more serious, life-long condition. Learn About Acute Bronchitis Bronchitis is the sudden development of inflammation in the bronchial tubes—the major airways into your lungs. It usually happens because of a virus or breathing in something that irritates the lungs such as tobacco smoke, fumes, dust and air pollution. Key Facts Bronchitis is temporary and usually does not cause any permanent breathing difficulties. The infection usually lasts for a week to 10 days, but the cough can continue for several weeks. Bronchitis usually gets better on its own without the need for medical treatment. It is different from chronic bronchitis, a chronic disease that is part of COPD. Young children, the elderly and people with major health conditions are the most at risk. How Acute Bronchitis Affects Your Body In bronchitis, cells that line the bronchi become inflamed. The symptoms usually start in the nose or throat and travel to the bronchial tubes. When the body tries to fight the airway inflammation, it causes the bronchial tubes to swell and fill with mucus. This causes you to cough . Sometimes it is a dry cough, but often you will cough up mucus (sputum). The swelling also narrows your airways, allowing less air to pass through, which can cause wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath . With time, the bronchitis will resolve and your airways return to normal. Symptom improvement can take around a week to two weeks, though the cough may stick around for longer. What Causes Bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is usually caused by a virus , such as a cold or the flu, and occasionally by bacterial infection like whooping cough. You are more vulnerable to developing bronchitis if: You have close contact with someone who has a virus You have not been immunized against the viruses and bacteria that can cause bronchitis like the flu , RSV , COVID-19 and pneumococcal disease . You are exposed to lung irritants like tobacco smoke, fumes, dust and air pollution Bronchitis Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment - What Are the Symptoms of Bronchitis? The most common symptoms of bronchitis are: Runny, stuffy nose Low-grade fever Chest congestion Wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing A cough that may produce yellow or green mucus (sputum) Feeling run-down or tired Shortness of breath How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed? During the first few days of illness, bronchitis symptoms are similar to that of a common cold. Healthcare providers diagnose bronchitis by asking patients questions about symptoms and doing a physical examination. There aren’t tests to diagnose acute bronchitis, but your healthcare provider may test you for viral infections to rule those out. If your cough lasts for longer than typical, your healthcare provider might order a chest X-ray to look for more serious conditions like pneumonia. Preventing Bronchitis Avoiding lung irritants, including smoking, is important for preventing bronchitis. To help protect your lungs, wear a mask over your mouth and nose when using lung irritants such as paint, paint remover or varnish. Wash your hands often, and stay up to date on your recommended immunizations. How Is Bronchitis Treated? Most cases of bronchitis go away on their own. Bronchitis has to run its course over several weeks. There are ways to help make yourself more comfortable at home that your healthcare provider may suggest, including: Resting and getting plenty of fluids Drinking lots of water, which helps loosen chest congestion A cough suppressant and/or pain reliever, especially at bedtime A humidifier or steam Antibiotics are not effective for treating viral infections, but if your doctor suspects that you have a bacterial infection, they may prescribe one. If you have chronic lung disease, your healthcare provider may recommend additional treatments to reduce airway inflammation. When to See Your Doctor On average, the symptoms of acute bronchitis last only a couple of weeks. However, if you have a cough that won't go away, or if you get sick with bronchitis frequently, it may be the sign of a more serious disease and you should visit your doctor. Here are some questions to ask your doctor about bronchitis: Am I contagious? For how long? Do I need to get a chest X-ray? (Most of the time, the answer is "No.") Should I be concerned about having a fever? Should I take over-the-counter cough and cold product? What are the side-effects of the medications? When will I be able to resume my normal activities? Frequently Asked Questions about Bronchitis: Is bronchitis contagious? Are bronchitis and pneumonia the same? Can I only get bronchitis during respiratory illness season? Talk to an Expert Our Lung HelpLine is staffed by registered nurses and respiratory therapists ready to help answer your questions about bronchitis. Connect with us by phone, email or live chat. Contact HelpLine Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchitis
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Lung Diseases
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a form of chronic lung disease that affects newborns. Most infants who develop BPD have been born prematurely and need oxygen therapy. Most infants recover from BPD, but some may have long-term breathing difficulties. Learn About Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a form of chronic lung disease that affects newborns, most often those who are born prematurely and need oxygen therapy. In BPD the lungs and the airways (bronchi) are damaged, causing tissue destruction (dysplasia) in the tiny air sacs of the lung (alveoli). Key Facts Babies are not born with BPD; the condition results from damage to the lungs, usually caused by mechanical ventilation (respirator) and long-term use of oxygen. An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 newborns develop BPD in the United States every year. The severity of the disease varies from infant to infant. The more premature the newborn, the greater the risk of developing BPD. How Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Affects Your Body In the lungs, BPD causes damage to the current and developing alveoli. Additionally, the tiny blood vessels surrounding the alveoli may be affected, making the passage of blood through the lungs more difficult. The lower the number of working alveoli, the longer the infant may need to remain on a ventilator, which can cause further damage to the child’s lungs. In the long run, increased pressure inside the blood vessels in the lungs and between the heart and lungs can cause pulmonary hypertension . In severe cases, heart failure can occur. Newborns who suffer from BPD may also experience trouble feeding, leading to delayed development. What Causes Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia? BPD is a respiratory disease that can occur when a newborn’s lungs are undeveloped at birth, requiring the use of a ventilator or oxygen therapy for support. Because newborns’ lungs are particularly vulnerable, high amounts of inhaled oxygen and pressure may overstretch the alveoli, causing inflammation and damage to the inside lining of the airways, the alveoli and the blood vessels around them. These effects are particularly damaging on the premature lung, and BPD is considered to be primarily a complication of prematurity. Different conditions may affect the growth of the fetus during the pregnancy and may also lead to premature labor. Prenatal infections or maternal complications such as smoking, drug use, placental abnormalities (preeclampsia) and inflammation of the fetal membranes (chorioamnionitis) may cause BPD. After birth, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is closely linked to the development of BPD, though only some infants with RDS will develop BPD. Another condition called patent ductus arteriosus, a heart defect in which the blood vessel connecting the right and left side of the heart fail to close and remain open, may lead to BPD if the child is put on a ventilator. Who Is at Risk for BPD? The degree of prematurity in an infant is largely what puts a child at risk of developing BPD. A majority of newborns who develop BPD are born more than 10 weeks early, weigh less than two pounds at birth, and are born with breathing problems. BPD is rare in infants born after 32 weeks of pregnancy. Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Symptoms and Diagnosis - What Are the Symptoms of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia? The symptoms of BPD vary depending on its severity. The most common symptoms of bronchopulmonary dysplasia are: Rapid breathing Labored breathing (drawing in of the lower chest while breathing in) Wheezing (a soft whistling sound as the baby breathes out) The need for continued oxygen therapy after the gestational age of 36 weeks Difficulty feeding Repeated lung infections that may require hospitalization How Is Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Diagnosed? The diagnosis of BPD is based on the clinical evaluation, the degree of prematurity, and the need for oxygen after a certain age. As infants with BPD usually had oxygen and mechanical ventilation, they are often in the hospital when diagnosed. Regardless, you should contact your pediatrician if: Your infant/child is breathing much faster than usual. The breathing is labored (pulling in of the skin between the ribs, below the chest or at the bottom of the neck just above the chest). There is bluish discoloration around the mouth or lips. There are frequent alarms of the apnea monitor and/or pulse oximeter. Preventing Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Ensuring that your baby is born after the lungs are fully developed is the best prevention for bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Healthy pregnancy practices may increase this likelihood. Simple steps every mother should take are: avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs, eat right, prevent infections and see your doctor regularly. If there is a risk of delivering your baby prematurely, your doctor may give you injections of a corticosteroid medicine that speeds up the development of the baby’s lung ability to produce surfactant. This will lower the risk of your baby developing respiratory distress syndrome, which can lead to BPD. Treating and Managing Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia - How Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Is Treated There is no specific cure for BPD, but treatment focuses on minimizing further lung damage and providing support for the infant’s lungs, allowing them to heal and grow. Newborns suffering from BPS are frequently treated in a hospital setting, where they can be continuously monitored. Types of drug therapies that may be used are: Diuretics : This class of drugs helps to decrease the amount of fluid in and around the alveoli. They are usually given by mouth one to four times per day. Bronchodilators : These medications help relax the muscles around the air passages, which makes breathing easier by widening the airway openings. They are usually given as an aerosol by a mask over the infant's face and using a nebulizer or an inhaler with a spacer. Corticosteroids : These drugs reduce and/or prevent inflammation within the lungs. They help reduce swelling in the windpipe and decrease the amount of mucus that is produced. Like bronchodilators, they are also usually given as an aerosol with a mask, either with the use of a nebulizer or an inhaler with a spacer. Viral immunization : Children with BPD are at increased risk for respiratory tract infections especially respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) . Infants with moderate or severe BPD receive monthly injections with a medication that helps prevent the infection during the RSV season. Cardiac medications : A few infants with BPD may require special medications that help relax the muscles around the blood vessels in the lung, allowing the blood to pass more freely and reduce the strain on the heart. Patients with more severe disease may need oxygen for several months. They may also need some form of support with a machine that delivers pressure through the nose through special prongs or a mask. These machines provide either nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP). A small number of patients with very severe disease may need to stay on a ventilator for a long time, in which case they will need to receive a tracheostomy (a breathing tube inserted into the lungs through the neck). Managing Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia BPD tends to cause the most trouble during infancy and early childhood, with symptoms receding by 2 or 3 years of age and treatment ending by 5 years of age at the latest. However, the lungs may not develop normally and this can cause other lung problems later in life. This is why it is highly recommended that infants with BPD receive regular check-ups, timely vaccinations and consultations with a pediatric lung specialist at least during the first few years of life. Premature infants with even mild BPD are at risk for other developmental problems. Many newborns with BPD will experience pauses in breathing (apnea), feeding complications that may be severe enough to require a feeding tube, GERD, pulmonary hypertension, neurologic complications, vision or hearing problems and various learning disabilities. Most of these complications are rare in those with mild to moderate BPD. After discharge from the hospital, growth may still be delayed. Your child may continue to experience lung problems into adulthood. Many people who have BPD as infants may develop reactive airway disease or asthma and struggle with exercise intolerance for the rest of their life. They may also be more susceptible to infections, such as a cold or the flu . Symptoms of these viruses may be more severe, and it may take them longer to recover. Frequent hospitalizations are common, especially among those with moderate to severe BPD. Finding Support Caring for a premature infant struggling with bronchopulmonary dysplasia can be challenging. As a caregiver, it is important to take steps to limit the emotional stress put on your life. Your physicians can answer questions and assist with the newborn’s care, but you may also want to consider seeking support outside the hospital. Talk with your friends and family and consider joining a community support group for parents of premature newborns, such as our INSPIRE group. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support. Learn More Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Learn as much as you can about your baby’s daily care. This will help you to identify questions early on. Talk to your doctor about BPD and become familiar with the various medications and treatments. How severe is my child’s BPD? What treatments do you suggest and what are the benefits and the side effects for each? What is likely to happen in the short-term and as the baby gets older? How long will he/she need treatment? What things do I need to be aware of when taking my baby home to prevent complications? How do I fit the care of my child into my daily routine? Do I need a follow-up visit for my child and how often? Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchopulmonary-dysplasia
Chronic Bronchitis
Lung Diseases
Chronic Bronchitis Bronchitis is a lung condition where the bronchi, or large airways in your lungs, become inflamed. This can cause severe coughing spells that bring up sputum (mucus or phlegm), wheezing, chest pain and shortness of breath. There are two main types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis usually develops from a lung infection such as a cold and goes away in a week or two. Chronic bronchitis is a more serious condition that develops over time. Symptoms may get better or worse, but they will never completely go away. Over time, inflammation can cause sticky mucus to build up in the airways, leading to long-term breathing difficulties. See video: https://youtu.be/YIw705PCPxM Key Facts about Chronic Bronchitis Along with emphysema , chronic bronchitis is one of the main lung diseases that comprise COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of chronic bronchitis. Other risk factors include exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution like dust, fumes, or chemicals in the workplace or environment. It may also occur more often in people who have a family history of bronchitis. To classify chronic bronchitis, you must have a productive cough (producing mucus or phlegm) that lasts at least three months and over the course of two years. In addition, other lung conditions like asthma must be ruled out. To diagnose chronic bronchitis, your healthcare provider will ask you about your health and family history, conduct a physical exam and review the results of your lung function tests. Spirometry is a common lung function test that can determine if you have COPD. Other tests or procedures your healthcare provider may order include a chest X ray, CT scan and a blood test to check your oxygen levels. There is no cure for chronic bronchitis or COPD, but treatments include medications like bronchodilators that open your airways, quitting smoking, oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation . Visit our COPD section to learn more » Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-bronchitis
Chronic Cough
Lung Diseases
Chronic Cough Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts for at least eight weeks, and often much longer. Although cough is a common symptom of many lung diseases, chronic cough can't always be linked to another disease or condition and it often doesn't respond to treatment. If you have chronic cough it can feel like a burden on your daily life, with lack of sleep, mental and physical exhaustion and social stigma impacting your quality of life. Learn About Chronic Cough A cough is an important reflex that helps protect your lungs. An occasional cough is a normal and a healthy function in your body, however if it persists for longer than eight weeks, you should speak with your healthcare provider. Watch the animation and learn more about why we cough? iframe video A cough is an important reflex that helps protect your airways and lungs. Coughing can propel air and particles out of your lungs and throat at speeds close to 50 miles per hour. And this whole process is almost instantaneous and very effective! But a cough that last eight weeks or longer, should be discussed with your doctor. Watch Video What Is Chronic Cough? Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts eight weeks or longer on some or most days. While having a cough is a symptom of many lung diseases as well as some non-lung conditions, a chronic cough often last much longer than eight weeks and continues despite treatment of any other condition and in some cases, when other diseases have been ruled out. There are different types of chronic cough: "Symptomatic" chronic cough is caused by an underlying disease and can treated and often resolved once the disease is diagnosed. "Refractory" chronic cough is often caused by an underlying reason that persists despite guideline-based treatment. “Unexplained” or “idiopathic” chronic cough means that no cause is found for the cough even after a thorough evaluation. Terms to Describe Chronic Cough Chronic: This means long term. When diagnosing cough, there are three lengths: "Acute cough" is one that lasts less than three weeks "Subacute cough" is one that lasts three to eight weeks "Chronic cough" lasts longer than eight weeks Refractory: This means the cough hasn’t been controlled after multiple testing and specific treatments, as well as having tried various over-the-counter treatments from your healthcare provider. What Causes Chronic Cough? Some common causes of chronic cough include: Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , asthma , non-asthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis (NAEB) or pulmonary fibrosis . Allergies, sinus issues like postnasal drip and digestive issues such as gastroesophageal reflux or GERD Medications such as ACE inhibitors for blood pressure Smoking tobacco products Often when the cause of the cough has been identified, it can be successfully treated. But sometimes a chronic cough persists, either because treating the underlying cause is not effective, only one of the causes have been identified or the cause of your chronic cough is unknown. Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage. iframe video Chronic cough isn’t contagious and it can’t always be linked as a symptom to any other disease. Watch Video May Be a Symptom of Another Disease Alternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough. It is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus/stomach specialist. When to see your healthcare provider A cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own. If you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it. Questions about Your Chronic Cough Talk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email. Visit the Helpline How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed? To identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough. Medical history Your healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities: About Your Cough About Your Activities About Your Overall Health Diagnostic tests Your healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include: Chest X-ray : Quick and easy chest picture Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies CT scan of the chest : A better-quality picture of the chest Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough Lung function tests : Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is spirometry . Methacholine challenge test : A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma Questions about Your Chronic Cough? Talk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email. Visit the Helpline Treating and Managing Chronic Cough iframe video Chronic cough can affect your entire life – from lack of sleep, social stigma or concern over a misdiagnosis. Watch Video What to Expect A diagnosis of chronic cough can be both confirming and frustrating. It is a relief to know there is a name for the symptoms you have experienced for so long. But that doesn't always mean that the cough itself will go away. Your healthcare provider may instead work with you to manage living with chronic cough. A chronic cough can impact your quality of life and may cause more severe challenges such as vomiting, muscle pain, rib fractures, urinary incontinence, tiredness or fainting. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about managing any symptoms you are experiencing along with your chronic cough. Treatment Options There is no FDA approved medication in the United States to treat chronic cough however clinical trials are happening to find new treatments and therapies. If your cough is identified as being caused by a specific medical condition such as asthma , COPD , pulmonary fibrosis , sinus drainage issues, nasal polyps, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) there may be specific treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider that can be helpful in getting rid of the cough or at least making it more manageable. Certain off label neurological medications may help reduce the cough reflex for people living with a refractory or unexplained chronic cough. If your provider prescribes this type of medication, you will need to work together to find the right dosage and monitor any side effects. Your provider may also recommend working with a speech-language pathologist to learn behavioral cough suppression therapy. Even if your cough does not respond to treatment, often termed "chronic refractory cough" be sure to keep the conversation with your healthcare provider going to let them know how things are changing – or not. Managing Chronic Cough - Lifestyle Changes Lifestyle changes are not a cure for your chronic cough but may help in managing your cough. Avoid irritants . If you are aware of something that triggers your cough, try to decrease your exposure to this irritant. As an example, dust may cause you to cough so it can be helpful to damp dust your home and wear a mask to reduce your exposure. Be mindful of outdoor air quality, pollen or molds. Your local news or weather station often tracks the different pollen and molds in the air. You can also check the air quality at airnow.gov. Drink lots of fluids. This can help thin mucus and will keep you hydrated. Avoid tobacco smoke. Tobacco smoke is a lung irritant and can worsen your cough. If you currently use tobacco products, learn more about quitting tobacco. Soothe your throat. Hard candy, cough drops or honey can help to soothe your throat. However, do NOT give honey to infants under one as it may contain bacteria that is harmful to them. Moisturize the air. Use of a cool-mist humidifier may help decrease your cough. Be sure to clean the water basin of your humidifier frequently to prevent mold growth. Discuss with your healthcare provider any physical and emotional impacts related to your chronic cough or coughing spells. Managing your Emotional Health Living with a chronic cough may cause a range of mood changes and emotions such as anger, anxiety, depression, embarrassment, frustration or helplessness. You may also feel self-conscious about your cough, especially in social situations. While a chronic cough can feel isolating, you are not alone. You may find comfort and support in reaching out to others experiencing similar challenges. In sharing stories, voicing frustrations and affirming hope, the emotional toll chronic cough has on your life may lessen. Check out some of the supportive resources available to you: Online Support Communities Clinical Trials Better Breathers Club Patient & Caregiver Network Talk to an Expert Talk to our trained lung health professionals at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you. Visit the HelpLine Newly Diagnosed - Steps to Take After Being Diagnosed with Chronic Cough Step 1 - Communicate with Your Healthcare Team If you have been diagnosed with chronic cough, you most likely have seen several specialists such as a lung doctor, allergist and heart specialist to determine any other possible causes for your cough. It is important to have ruled out any other reasons for your cough. If your healthcare providers do not work in the same healthcare system, encourage them to communicate with each other for the most comprehensive approach to your care. Talk to your provider about ways you can manage your cough. Step 2 - Protect Your Lungs Avoid tobacco smoke . Smoking or breathing in secondhand smoke irritates your lungs and can worsen your cough. Occupational exposure, chemicals in the home and workplace, and mold can all act as irritants with the potential to worsen your cough. Stay up to date on vaccinations that protect against infectious respiratory diseases since coming down with one can make your cough worse. Step 3 - Get Support Living with a chronic cough can be frustrating. Joining a support group can provide you with a community that understands the types of challenges you may be facing. Online support groups and in person support groups are available Consider professional support if you feel overwhelmed with your chronic cough diagnosis. Ask your primary healthcare provider to provide a referral to a counselor or check with your insurance for an in-network provider that can help you with managing the stress and frustration of your diagnosis. Chronic Cough Resources and Videos This resource library includes videos and other resources for people living with a chronic cough. Videos Chronic Cough: A Doctor’s Perspective [Video] A cough is considered chronic if it lasts eight weeks, and often it lasts much longer. And it often doesn’t respond to treatment. Chronic Cough: A Patient’s Perspective [Video] Chronic cough can affect your entire life – from lack of sleep, social stigma or concern over a misdiagnosis. Chronic Cough: A Patient’s Perspective [Video] Chronic cough isn’t contagious and it can’t always be linked as a symptom to any other disease. The Process of a Cough [animation] A cough is an important reflex that helps protect your airways and lungs. Resources Chronic Cough One Pager Chronic Cough Diagnosis Roadmap Blog: After 25 years, a Chronic Cough Clinic Provides Answers Blog: The Story of One Woman's Lifelong Struggle with Chronic Cough Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough
Chronic Lung Disease
Lung Diseases
Chronic Lung Disease A chronic lung disease is a type of disease that prevents the lungs and respiratory system from working correctly. The main job of the respiratory system is to take in oxygen from the air we breathe and remove extra carbon dioxide. Every organ in your body needs oxygen. Chronic lung diseases often develop slowly but may get worse over time. Causes and risk factors may include smoking or having a smoking history, genetics or family history, work-related exposures, secondhand smoke, air pollution, or frequent childhood lung infections. iframe video There are several types of chronic lung disease that occur, and they impact different parts of your lungs in different ways. Understanding the type of chronic lung disease you have will help you better communicate your treatment goals with your healthcare provider for the best possible health outcomes. Watch Video Watch in Spanish Understanding Types of Chronic Lung Disease You may have one, two or all three types of chronic lung disease. Restrictive lung diseases Also called interstitial lung disease (ILDs), a restrictive lung disease happens when the tissue in the lungs may become inflamed, stiff, or scarred. This makes it harder for you to inhale air because your lungs cannot fully expand. Examples Pulmonary fibrosis or Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Sarcoidosis Work-related lung diseases like silicosis , histoplasmosis , or coal worker’s pneumoconiosis (black lung) Obstructive or airway lung diseases When the airways are blocked or obstructed, it is harder to breathe out all the air in your lungs. The airways may become inflamed, thick mucus can build up, and the walls of the air sacs become damaged. Examples Asthma Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis Bronchiectasis Cystic fibrosis Pulmonary vascular lung diseases These types of lung diseases affect the blood vessels in the lungs. This means the heart and lungs have a harder time working together to circulate oxygenated blood throughout your body. Examples Pulmonary hypertension Pulmonary embolism Lung Health Navigator Program A free, telephonic program for people living with asthma or COPD. Contact a Lung Health Navigator Key Facts: 35.2 million people in America were living with chronic lung disease in 2023. 586,000 people died due to lung disease, making it the 3rd leading cause of death in 2022. $129 billion - The total USA economic cost of lung disease per year. Living with a Chronic Lung Disease While there is no cure for most chronic lung diseases, there are ways to improve your symptoms and quality of life. People living with chronic lung disease can manage their disease by quitting smoking , avoiding secondhand smoke, reducing risk factors that worsen symptoms, staying up to date on vaccinations that prevent respiratory infections like flu or pneumonia, eating healthy, and staying active. Treatment for a chronic lung disease depends on the type of lung disease you are diagnosed with. Treatment options may include medications, supplemental oxygen , pulmonary rehabilitation , and surgery. Patient & Caregiver Network Join the Patient & Caregiver Network, a nationwide online support program offering easy access to lung disease management tools, educational resources, and a supportive community of fellow patients and caregivers. Join the Patient & Caregiver Network Around the Clock with Chronic Lung Disease Living with a chronic lung disease like pulmonary fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can make doing every day actvities, like bathing or running errands, more difficult. This booklet provides helpful advice and suggestions to conserve your energy and get more done. Download the Guide Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-lung-disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Lung Diseases
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The good news is COPD is often preventable and treatable. Here you'll find information, resources and tools to help you understand COPD, manage treatment and lifestyle changes, find support and take action. Learn About COPD The more you understand about COPD the better you and your loved ones can manage living with this disease. What Is COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease that causes air flow limitation (less air in and out of the airways) and breathing-related symptoms. There is no cure, but there are ways to manage and treat COPD. Key Points COPD is chronic. In other words, you live with it every day. It is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time. COPD is diagnosed by reviewing your medical history, physical examination and spirometry test results. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are also called COPD. COPD Basics Booklet - Download our new, easy-to-use COPD Basics Booklet to learn more about COPD and help you manage your COPD better. Download the COPD Basics Booklet in Spanish COPD Basics - Take some time to learn more about COPD by participating in our online learning module, COPD Basics. Learning to Live with COPD Workbook - Explore the Learning to Live with COPD Workbook and get all you need to know about managing COPD. Download the Learning to Live with COPD Workbook in Spanish How COPD Affects Your Body Not everyone with COPD has the same symptoms. At first, you may have no symptoms or mild symptoms. As your COPD gets worse, you may have more symptoms like a cough that may bring up sputum (mucus or phlegm) or shortness of breath. With COPD, less air flows in and out of your airways for one or more reasons: airways in your lungs become narrowed due to being swollen (inflamed) and thickened walls between your air sacs are destroyed airways and tiny air sacs lose their ability to stretch and shrink back airways make more mucus which can clog them and block air flow When less air flows into your lungs , less oxygen gets into your body tissues. Oxygen , one of the gases found in the air we breathe, is vital for our lungs and organs to work properly. Oxygen is exchanged for waste product or carbon dioxide . Carbon dioxide is removed from the blood stream when you exhale. When it becomes harder to get air in and out of your airways, you may have more breathing-related symptoms. Learn Early Warning Signs COPD is often not found until the disease is more advanced because people do not know the warning signs. Sometimes people think their shortness of breath is because they are "just getting older," and start to change day-to-day activities to avoid having more symptoms. The sooner COPD is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin. COPD Facts - COPD affects 11.7 million people in America. It accounts for millions of emergency department visits and tens of billions in healthcare costs each year. Learn more about COPD trends and disease burden in our COPD Trends Brief. Research - COPD research helps us understand how the disease is caused, how it develops and how it is best treated. COPD in Women More women are living with COPD compared to men and deaths from COPD are higher in women than in men. There are a few reasons why this happens. Tobacco industries target women Women may be more vulnerable to COPD risk factors Women are often misdiagnosed Join the Patient & Caregiver Network Your community is here to support you. Whether you’re a patient living with a chronic lung disease or a caregiver, join the Patient & Caregiver Network to get direct access to timely education, support, and connection. Join now Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH)
Lung Diseases
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH) CTEPH is a rare and progressive form of pulmonary hypertension caused when chronic pulmonary embolism, or blood clots, form scar-like tissue in the lung’s arteries, blocking or narrowing the arteries. Learn About CTEPH Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is rare, serious and treatable. This form of pulmonary hypertension is classified by the World Health Organization as Group 4 and occurs when blood vessels in the lung have been blocked by a clot for an extended period of time. Find Out What the Experts Are Saying Learn what our panel of experts recommended after convening an in-person PH Roundtable Meeting to review the updates to the ESC/ERS 2022 Diagnostic and Treatment Guidelines of Pulmonary Hypertension. View Guidance to the Guidelines Key Facts CTEPH is a rare disease with up to 3,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States and occurs equally in men and women. If you have been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension , your healthcare provider should rule out CTEPH to make sure you are getting the correct treatment. If you have a history of blood clots in your legs and/or your lungs and have new onset of shortness of breath, you should alert your healthcare provider immediately. What Causes CTEPH CTEPH is a rare and progressive form of pulmonary hypertension which can develop when chronic pulmonary embolism, or blood clots, form scar-like tissue in the lung’s arteries, blocking or narrowing the arteries. You may be at increased risk for CTEPH if you: Have a history of one or more blood clots in the lungs Have high blood pressure at the time a blood clot is diagnosed Have pulmonary hypertension for at least 6 months after a blood clot in the lung has been diagnosed How CTEPH Affects Your Body CTEPH results in blood clots getting stuck in the lungs, clogging the arteries, and causing the formation of scar-like tissue. As a result, the right side of your heart has to work harder. This increased work for the heart can result in heart failure. The oxygen level in the blood can also drop too low because of the increased time it takes for blood to travel through the lungs. This can result in damage to your cells, tissues, and organs which all need oxygen in order for you to be healthy. Without treatment, CTEPH can be fatal. Symptoms and Diagnosis of CTEPH - What Are the Symptoms of CTEPH? The symptoms of CTEPH are frequently nonspecific and similar to many other cardiopulmonary diseases such as asthma , chronic obstructive pulmonary disease , or heart failure. The most common symptoms may include increased shortness of breath with exertion such as climbing stairs and an increased intolerance to exercise. Other symptoms may include: Swelling in your abdomen Swelling in your legs Dizziness or feeling lightheaded Heart pounding (palpitations) Fatigue Tightness in the chest or stomach Coughing up blood, also called hemoptysis. When To See Your Healthcare Provider CTEPH can be hard to diagnose due to presenting with symptoms similar to other diseases. It is important to see your healthcare provider when noticing unexplained shortness of breath and fatigue. Alert your healthcare provider if you have a history of blood clots. Prompt treatment for CTEPH is important in order to have the most positive health outcomes. How CTEPH Is Diagnosed Your healthcare provider will need to order several tests to confirm that you have CTEPH. In order to be diagnosed with CTEPH, you first need to have a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension. Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) Scan : Measures how well air and blood flow into your lungs. Considered the best screening test for diagnosing CTEPH. Right Heart Catheterization : This test is invasive, so it is not usually performed unless other tests cannot produce a firm diagnosis. It involves inserting a catheter (small tube) into a large vein in either the neck, arm, or groin, and threading it through the right side of the heart and into the pulmonary artery. This allows measurement of the blood pressure in the lungs. Lung function tests (Breathing tests) : Checks for diseases like asthma or COPD. Echocardiogram : Ultrasound of the heart to check the size and condition of the chambers of the heart. It can also be used to estimate the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries. Pulmonary Angiogram: A dynamic X-ray of the blood vessels in your lungs using contrast injection. Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan Pulmonary Angiograph : Diagnostic imaging that shows cross-section images of your lungs using contrast to outline your blood vessels. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Non-invasive detailed imaging of your lungs that uses magnets and radio waves. 6-Minute Walk Test : Objectively measures how far you can walk and to see if your oxygen levels drop when you are physically active. Treating and Managing CTEPH - How CTEPH Is Treated The primary treatment method for CTEPH is a surgical procedure known as pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE), also referred to as pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA). This is considered the most effective treatment for CTEPH; however more than one-third of patients with CTEPH are not good candidates for this treatment option. Pulmonary Thromboendarterectomy (PTE) PTE is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of all of the clots from the arteries in your lungs. PTE results in significant improvement for patients that have been diagnosed with CTEPH and some patients may be cured. Not all patients with CTEPH are good candidates for this treatment intervention. Patients who have other medical conditions, or patients with distal lesions that are difficult to reach with surgery may not be candidates for this procedure. Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty (BPA) If you are unable to tolerate PTE, your healthcare provider may recommend balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA). This procedure involves the use of tiny balloons that are inflated inside the pulmonary artery to widen it. This decreases the pulmonary arterial pressure so that the right side of your heart does not have to work so hard. Lung Transplant A lung transplant is rarely needed; however, it may be recommended for patients with advanced CTEPH when other treatment options are not working. Your healthcare provider will decide if a lung transplant is right for you. Medications Medication management may be recommended by your healthcare provider if you are not a candidate for surgery or if you continue to have pulmonary hypertension after having surgery. Medication therapy will help in opening, or dilating, your pulmonary arteries so that the heart does not have to work so hard. Your healthcare provider will usually recommend treatment with anticoagulants, even if you have had successful surgery. Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, will keep new blood clots from forming. Oxygen therapy may be prescribed if you are not getting enough oxygen. Your healthcare provider will decide if supplemental oxygen is right for you. For More Information: Pulmonary Hypertension Association 2022 ESC/ERS Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension Living with CTEPH: A Personal Story Diagnosed in 2012 with a rare type of pulmonary hypertension, Dolores shares a new life purpose – raising awareness about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of CTEPH. Read the full story Newly Diagnosed with CTEPH? - Take These Important First Steps If you have been diagnosed with CTEPH, learn more about what can cause CTEPH, what your treatment options are and how to best manage your disease. It will be important for you to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine what treatment course is right for you as soon as possible. Get an appropriate referral. Because CTEPH is such a rare disease, it is extremely valuable to get a referral to a specialist at an expert CTEPH center to ensure you are getting the most up-to-date treatment options. Take Care of Yourself Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Ask your healthcare provider if pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is right for you. PR provides a structured environment for learning what exercise is right for you, the important role of nutrition in your health, learning how to manage your medications, and more. Nutrition: Good nutrition is important in managing your CTEPH. Talk to your healthcare provider about what foods are good for you and what your ideal weight should be. Medications: You may be on new medications to help manage your CTEPH. It is important to make sure that you are taking your medications as prescribed in order to get the maximum benefit . If your healthcare provider has prescribed oxygen therapy , make sure you know how to correctly use your oxygen delivery device. Exercise: Talk to your healthcare provider about what types of exercise are right for you. It is important to strengthen your muscles and work on breathing techniques that can improve your quality of life. Healthy Lungs: Quitting tobacco smoking is important to your lung health. You do not have to quit alone. You can find programs, resources and support at Quit Smoking . Talk to your healthcare provider about what vaccinations you should have to best protect your lungs. Connect With Others : No person facing a chronic lung disease should go through it alone. There are online and in-person support groups available. Finding a support group early in your journey will provide you with more opportunities to get information about your disease, empower you to better manage your disease, and give you the support you need. Living With Lung Disease (online support community) Better Breathers Clubs (in-person and virtual support groups) Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/cteph
Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (Black Lung Disease)
Lung Diseases
Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (Black Lung Disease) Coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP), commonly known as "black lung disease," occurs when coal dust is inhaled. Over time, continued exposure to the coal dust causes scarring in the lungs, impairing your ability to breathe. Considered an occupational lung disease, it is most common among coal miners. Learn About Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis - Key Facts Coal worker’s pneumoconiosis, or black lung, is one of over 200 types of pulmonary fibrosis and is classified as an interstitial lung disease. Your doctor may refer to your disease by any of these terms. Fibrosis - the development of fibrous connective tissue as a reparative response to injury or damage Interstitial Lung Disease - Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an umbrella term used for a large group of diseases that cause scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. The scarring causes stiffness in the lungs which makes it difficult to breathe and get oxygen to the bloodstream. Lung damage from ILDs is often irreversible and gets worse over time. An estimated 16% of coal workers are affected and after decades of improvement, the number of cases of black lung disease is on the rise again. There is no cure for coal worker’s pneumoconiosis, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has safety standards to help workers employers and workers take steps to prevent black lung disease. What Causes Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis? Black lung disease can develop when coal dust is inhaled over a long period of time. Coal dust is made of dangerous carbon-containing particles that coal miners are at risk of inhaling, which is why it is mostly considered an occupational (workplace) disease. Coal miners may also be exposed to silica-containing dust because coal mining may involve some drilling into silica-containing rock. However, not all workers will develop the disease. Recent studies have found that about 16% of coal miners in the U.S. will contract the disease. This number has been increasing in recent years, which may be linked to changes in mining technology that allow for higher volumes of coal to be extracted in a given time period and changes in the mineral content of the coal that make it more hazardous. How It Affects Your Body When the coal dust is inhaled, the particles can travel through the airways all the way into the alveoli (air sacs) that are deep in the lungs. After the dust particles land and settle in the lung, lung tissue may try to get rid of the dust particles, causing swelling as the body tries to fight the foreign particles. In some cases, the swelling is severe enough to cause scar tissue to form. The damaging effects of the inhaled coal dust may not show up for many years, and many patients don’t develop symptoms until long after their initial exposure. For coal worker’s pneumoconiosis, the scarring can be separated into two types: simple or complicated. In simple pneumoconiosis, a chest X-ray or CT scan will reveal small amounts of scar tissue, seen as tiny, circular nodules on the lungs. Complicated pneumoconiosis, also called progressive massive fibrosis, involves more severe scarring over a larger area of the lung tissue. In both types, your breathing will be negatively affected. Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis Symptoms and Diagnosis - Symptoms of Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis Symptoms of black lung disease can take years to develop. In early stages, the most common symptoms are cough , shortness of breath and chest tightness. Sometime the coughing may bring up black sputum (mucus). These symptoms may initially occur after strenuous activity, but as the disease progresses, they may become present at rest as well. If the scaring is severe, oxygen may be prevented from easily reaching the blood. This results in low blood oxygen levels which puts stress on other organs, such as the heart and brain, and can cause additional symptoms. How Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis Is Diagnosed There is no specific test for black lung disease. If you are concerned about your symptoms, your doctor will first want to take a detailed medical history, asking about your job history in detail to determine the likelihood of exposure. It may be a good idea to prepare the following information in advance: Your symptoms and the time they started Treatments given before for the symptoms and how they helped The work you have done over your entire career; the length of time you spent in each job; the nature of the work you performed. The products you were in contact with at work and whether or not you wore protective equipment Smoking history Any old medical records, including chest X-rays or CT scans Your doctor will also want to perform a physical exam and breathing tests to measure your lungs’ ability to breathe and move oxygen. Imaging tests such as chest X-ray or CT scan may be suggested, to look for nodules and areas of swelling. The Federal Mine Safety and Health Acts requires that surveillance programs be offered to all coal miners and include breathing tests and/or chest X-rays every year or periodically to look for irregular areas. When to See Your Doctor If you have been exposed to coal dust or other toxic dusts and have respiratory symptoms such as cough or shortness of breath, you should consult your healthcare provider. Treating and Managing Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis - How Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis is Treated There is no treatment that can reverse the damage done by coal dust, but certain steps can help slow down progression of the disease, relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Once the severity of exposure has been determined, your doctor can determine the best course of action. Medication and breathing treatments may be prescribed to help open your airways and decrease inflammation. In most cases, pulmonary rehabilitation , an exercise program designed to help patients with chronic lung conditions stay active, is recommended to help improve quality of life. As scarring in the lungs becomes more severe, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to help you get more air into your lungs when needed. Though you may need it only while exercising at the beginning, as the disease progresses you may need it at all times. In rare, very severe cases, a lung transplant may be recommended. Avoiding further exposure and avoiding other irritants, such as cigarette smoke, is crucial. If you are a smoker, you will be strongly advised to quit smoking. The American Lung Association offers a number of smoking cessation programs to give people trying to quit the support they need. Managing Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis If you have black lung disease, you should expect to have regular visits with your health-care provider(s). You may need regular testing, such as a lung function test or chest X-rays to monitor you and your disease closely, as well as check for lung cancer. Your doctor can help manage your symptoms, but you can also take steps to keep yourself healthy by doing the following: Maintain weight and nutrition with a well-balanced diet. Stay as active as you can by exercising regularly but be careful not to overexert yourself. Prevent respiratory infections that can make your lungs worse. Get vaccinated against the flu every year, and pneumococcal pneumonia as recommended by your doctor. Be vigilant about monitoring your condition and watching for the development of infections. See your doctor immediately if one develops. Have a plan to manage flare-ups of the disease. Prevention Black lung disease is preventable, which is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a set of safety standards to help workers avoid the disease. Under these guidelines, all coal miners should wear a mask, wash any skin that comes in contact with dust, safely remove dust from all clothing and wash their face and hands before eating, drinking or taking medication. In addition, all mines are regulated to limit how much coal dust is in the air. Finding Support Ask your healthcare provider about lung disease support groups in your area, or look online for a Better Breathers Club near you. The Lung Association recommends patients and caregivers join our Living with Lung Disease Support Community to connect with others facing this disease. You can also call the Lung Association's Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA to talk to a trained respiratory professional who can help answer your questions and connect you with additional support. Learn More For More Information: There are a number of resources available for coal workers who have contracted black lung disease. Under the Black Lung Benefits Act coal miners who are disabled by pneumoconiosis are entitled to worker’s compensation and other benefits. Health Resources and Service Administration’s (HRSA) Black Lung Clinics can be found nationwide, and are focused on providing black lung disease patients and their families with education, primary care, and other services. The Black Lung Center of Excellence supports these Black Lung Clinics Programs and provides additional services as well. Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Making notes before your visit, as well as taking along a trusted family member or friend, can help you through an appointment with your doctor. How advanced is my disease? What is the best treatment for the severity of my condition? What medications will I be given and what are the side effects? Would pulmonary rehabilitation be a good idea for me? Should I use oxygen? How much experience do you have with black lung disease, and should I talk to a specialist? Will I need a lung transplant? How often do I need to have follow-up appointments? Breathing tests or chest X-rays? Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/black-lung
Common Cold
Lung Diseases
Common Cold What Is a Cold? Colds are typically minor infections of the nose and throat (upper respiratory tract) caused by more than 200 different respiratory viruses. Rhinoviruses are the most common cause of colds in the U.S. Parainfluenza viruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, human metapneumovirus and common human coronaviruses also cause colds. A cold may last for about one week, but some colds last longer, especially in children, the elderly and those in poor health. Adults get an average of two to three colds per year, mostly between September and May. Children suffer from more colds per year than adults. Colds are highly contagious. They most often spread through droplets of fluid from an infected person sneezing or coughing. These droplets can enter your body through breathing them in or touching a contaminated surface then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Common Cold Symptoms Between one and three days after a cold virus enters the body, symptoms start developing, such as: Runny nose or congestion Sneezing Sore throat Headache Cough Respiratory viruses can cause complications such as middle ear infections, sinus infections, asthma attacks, bronchiolitis (infection of the small airways), pneumonia (infection of the lungs) and worsening of chronic medical conditions like COPD. Is it a Cold or More Serious Respiratory Virus? Symptoms of the flu, COVID-19 and RSV are similar to the common cold, but they last longer, tend to be worse, and can have serious outcomes. The flu , COVID-19 , and RSV can cause hospitalization and even death especially in individuals at increased risk for severe illness. These respiratory viruses do not cause colds and if you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19, you should get tested, especially if you are at increased risk for severe disease. There are treatment options available, and they work best when started as soon as symptoms begin. What Can Be Done If You Catch a Cold? The common cold does not have a treatment but should get better on its own. Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief of symptoms and help you feel better. They do not cure your illness. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about over-the-counter medication and mention any other prescription you are taking or medical condition you have. Over-the-counter cough/cold medicines are not recommended for children younger than 6 years old. Young children can have acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever. Be sure to discuss all medication choices with a healthcare provider. In addition to medication, Get plenty of rest Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids Use a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer Use saline nasal spray or drops Breathe in steam from a running shower Use lozenges or cough drops (not for children under 4) Use honey to relieve cough (must be at least 1 year old) There are no antiviral medications available for treating the common cold. Antibiotics are not useful for treating a cold and should only be taken to treat bacterial complications that arise from it. If you are concerned you have a bacterial complication, discuss it with your healthcare provider. What Can You Do to Prevent a Cold? Colds are extremely difficult to prevent entirely. The following suggestions may help: Avoid close contact with people who have a cold, especially during the first few days when they are most likely to spread the infection. Wash your hands after touching someone who has a cold, after touching an object they have touched, and after blowing your nose. If a child has a cold, wash his or her toys after play. Keep fingers away from your nose and eyes to avoid infecting yourself with cold virus particles you may have been picked up. Learn more ways to help prevent colds. Keep your cold to yourself. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then throw the tissue away and wash hands. Stay home when you are sick. Also, stay away from people who are most vulnerable, including older adults and anyone who has asthma or another chronic lung disease, or at least try to limit close contact. Complications of a Cold Colds get better within a few days to weeks, whether or not a person takes medication. However, a cold virus can pave the way for other infections to invade the body, including sinus or ear infections and acute bronchitis . A common complication is a sinus infection with a prolonged cough. If you have asthma , chronic bronchitis , or emphysema , the symptoms from those conditions may be worsened for many weeks even after the cold has gone away. Post-infectious cough, usually without phlegm, may last for weeks to months after the cold goes away and may keep a person up at night. This cough has been associated with asthma-like symptoms, and can be treated with asthma medications. Consult a healthcare provider if you have this kind of cough. Talk to a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following: Unusually severe cold symptoms; High fever or a fever that lasts longer than 4 days; Dehydration Difficulty breathing; Symptoms that last more than 10 days without getting better; Cough that gets worse while other cold symptoms improve; or Flare-up of any chronic lung condition, such as asthma. Learn more about how to keep your lungs healthy » Source: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/facts-about-the-common-cold