According to American Lung Association, 400,000 Americans alone die of various lung diseases annually. As per the reports of American Cancer Society, lung cancer kills many people every year than any other cancers. This articles gives information on various causes for lung diseases and disorders, treatments and prevention for certain diseases.
Causes of Lung Diseases and Disorders
Every lung disease has its own unique cause. Department of Health and Human Services listed out four common causes of lung diseases and disorders.
- Most common cause is damage to lungs caused by cigarette smoke, either by smoking or second hand exposure to smoke.
- The second leading cause is Radon gas. This is an idiopathic cause as many people are exposed to it at their work places or at home.
- Asbestos is a lung irritant that results in lung cancer.
- Lastly, air pollution causes asthma, lung cancer and several other lung diseases and disorders.
Types of Lung Diseases and Disorders:
While thinking about lung diseases, many people consider lung cancer alone. Lung cancer develops when cancerous cells develop and grow in lungs.
- Asthma is considered as the chronic bronchial tubes disease. This is also considered as a lung disorder. In fact, Department of Health and Human Services estimates that asthma affects 20 million people in United States.
- Chronic Obstructive pulmonary disease is referred to emphysema and chronic obstructive bronchitis. These block flow of air out of lungs.
- Other lung diseases include pneumonia, influenza and tuberculosis.
Symptoms of Lung Diseases and Disorders
Symptoms vary from disease to disease, but most of the symptoms overlap. In the initial stage, an individual’s energy is sapped. Other symptoms include:
- Frequent shortness of breath
- Trouble breathing
- Coughing up blood along with mucus
- Discomfort while breathing
- Chest pain
- Lingering cough
- Inability to exercise
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
An immediate medical attention is required, if you experience any of the above symptoms.
Prevention of Lung Diseases and Disorders
Certain diseases, such as COPD and lung cancer can be prevented. American Lung Association mentioned that smoking is primary cause for COPD and also responsible for 87% of lung cancer cases. It is an advice to quit smoking. Exposure to bacteria and viruses that cause lung disorders should also be avoided. Avoid exposure to toxic fumes, airborne pollutants, radon and asbestos.
Treatments for Lung Diseases and Disorders
Inhalers and nebulizers deliver direct mist on the lungs for relieving chest tightness which occur during lung inflammation. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation can be used for treating lung cancer. Certain diseases of lungs cannot be treated, but patient is given comforts by supplemental oxygen. Lung transplantation is suggested for some patients in the extreme case of the disease.
