Lung Condition: Lung Cancer
What is lung cancer? Lung cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that starts in the lungs. Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the US and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women. When you breathe, the lungs bring oxygen into the body and […]
Lung Condition: Pulmonary Fibrosis
What is pulmonary fibrosis? Pulmonary fibrosis is an illness in which the air sacs of the lungs (also called the alveoli) become inflamed and are gradually replaced by scar tissue. As the disease worsens, the scar tissue makes it harder to breathe. It becomes harder for the lungs to get oxygen into the bloodstream. Pulmonary […]
Lung Condition: Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is a condition that consists of infection or allergic reaction to various kinds of molds. Mold is a type of fungus that is often found outdoors on plants, soil, and decaying vegetation, though it can also grow indoors on dust, food items, and building materials. Aspergillus fumigatus is the mold that is most likely […]
Lung Condition: Tuberculosis
Causes And Treatment Of Tuberculosis Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease that mainly affects your lungs. TB also has the ability to spread to other parts of your body, such as your brain, spine, or kidneys. Tuberculosis used to be a widespread cause of death in the United States, but now it is easily curable. […]
Lung Condition: Pneumonia
What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection and inflammation of the lungs. How does it occur? Pneumonia occurs when the lungs are exposed to germs not usually present in the lungs. Your lungs may have become infected because: You were exposed to a large amount of a virus or bacteria. Your immune system was worn […]
Lung Condition: Bronchiectasis Treatment
What is bronchiectasis? Bronchiectasis is a pulmonary condition that occurs when the airways of the lungs are stretched and widened. In some cases bronchiectasis may be present at birth (congenital), although in other cases, it can develop later in life (acquired). How does it occur? When bronchiectasis is acquired over time, it is often caused […]
Lung Condition: Emphysema
What is emphysema? Emphysema is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that gradually destroys the lungs. The damage makes it hard to breathe. You have trouble breathing out carbon dioxide, and eventually you become unable to breathe in enough oxygen. How does it occur? Cigarette smoking is the main cause of emphysema. The smoke damages the cells […]
Lung Condition: Bronchitis Treatment
Causes And Treatment Of Bronchitis Bronchitis occurs when the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs, become inflamed. This causes an increase in mucus in your throat, as well as a high rate of coughing and wheezing. Types Of Bronchitis There are two types of bronchitis you may suffer […]
Lung Condition: Chronic Bronchitis Treatment
What is chronic bronchitis? Bronchitis is swelling and irritation of the bronchi, which are the airways that connect the windpipe to the lungs. Chronic means the symptoms occur year after year for months at a time. Chronic bronchitis is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. COPD is one of the leading causes […]
Lung Condition: COPD
What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition in which some of your airways are permanently blocked. COPD makes it harder for you to breathe. It causes strain on and enlargement of your heart (cor pulmonale) and increased blood pressure in your lungs (pulmonary hypertension). How does it […]