Lung Disease
Lung disease is any condition in the lungs that prevents the lungs from working properly. There are three main types of lung disease:
- Airway diseases – These diseases affect the tubes that carry oxygen and other gases into and out of the lungs. A narrowing or blockage of the airways results in restricted airflow.
- Lung tissue diseases – These diseases affect the structure of the lung tissue. Scarring or inflammation of the tissue makes the lungs unable to expand completely. This makes it hard for the lungs to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide.
- Lung circulation diseases – These diseases affect the blood vessels in the lungs. They are caused by clotting, scarring, or inflammation of the blood vessels. They affect the ability of the lungs to take up oxygen and release carbon dioxide.
The most common lung diseases include:
- Asthma
- Collapse of part or all of the lung
- Bronchitis
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Lung cancer
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary edema
- Pulmonary embolus
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of lung disease can include:
- Chronic cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic mucus production
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Chronic chest pain
Diagnosis
A Deborah® physician may order these tests to diagnose lung disease:
- Blood tests
- CT scan
- Echocardiogram
- Spirometry and diffusion capacity
- Oximetry
- Bronchoscopy
- Bronchoalveolar lavage
- Surgical biopsy