Lung Diseases
Whether you're managing a lung condition, supporting someone who is, or just want to know how to keep your lungs healthy, we’re here to assist you. Lung disease can affect anyone, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly. It doesn’t discriminate—it can impact smokers, former smokers, or those who have never smoked. No matter who you are, you deserve the best care and support, and we're committed to providing it.
Signs and Symptoms
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or exertion
Chest Pain
Discomfort or pain in the chest area, which may worsen with breathing or coughing
Cough
A persistent cough that may produce mucus or blood
Fatigue
Feeling tired or weak, often due to decreased oxygen levels in the blood
Wheezing
A whistling sound when breathing, often associated with narrowed airways
Respiratory Infections
Frequent or recurring respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis
Types of Lung Diseases
Whether you have a lung disease, care for someone with one, or want to learn how to protect your lungs, we are here to help. Lung disease can affect anyone—men, women, children, smokers, and non-smokers. Everyone deserves care and support.
Asthma
Asthma is a long-term condition where the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making it hard to breathe. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma can start at any age. While there is no cure, asthma can be managed with medications and by avoiding triggers to help people breathe easier.
Interstitial Lung Disease
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) refers to a group of lung conditions that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue. This scarring makes it difficult for the lungs to work properly, leading to symptoms like persistent coughing and shortness of breath. The exact cause of ILD can vary, including factors like exposure to certain substances or underlying health conditions.
Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary embolism is a condition where a blood clot blocks one of the arteries in the lungs, which can be life-threatening. It often causes sudden symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and rapid heartbeat. Pulmonary embolism usually occurs when a clot from the legs or other parts of the body breaks off and travels to the lungs.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe due to blocked airways. It includes diseases like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, causing symptoms like ongoing coughing and shortness of breath. Smoking is a major cause of COPD, but pollution and genetics can also contribute. There is no cure, but treatments and healthy habits can help manage the symptoms.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is a condition where the blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs is too high, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood through them. This can cause symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, and fatigue. Pulmonary hypertension can result from other health problems, such as heart or lung diseases, or it can develop on its own. There is no cure, but medications and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a type of Interstitial Lung Disease where the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiff, making it hard to breathe. The cause of IPF is unknown, but it leads to symptoms such as a persistent dry cough and difficulty breathing. The condition worsens over time, and while there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a disease where cells in the lungs grow uncontrollably, forming tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. It often doesn’t show symptoms early on but can cause coughing, chest pain, and weight loss as it progresses. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but other factors like exposure to certain chemicals and pollution also increase risk. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, though it depends on the type and stage of cancer.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the lungs, making it hard to breathe. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and often leads to symptoms like cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Pneumonia can range from mild to severe and is more dangerous for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Occupational Lung Diseases
Occupational lung diseases are conditions caused by inhaling harmful substances at work, such as dust, fumes, or chemicals. These diseases can lead to symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Common types include black lung disease from coal dust, asbestosis from asbestos, and silicosis from silica dust. Prevention involves using protective equipment and following safety guidelines, while treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing further exposure.