Breathe Easy: Understanding Lung Diseases and Essential Care
Introduction:
Most of us reading this blog might not have seen lungs physically but all of us can feel its expansion in the chest area. Lungs are one of the most vital parts of the body which are spongy, elastic and resemble a triangular cone like structure situated within the chest cavity ,protected by the rib cage. They are pinkish in colour for a healthy person that may vary according to age and health conditions. The lungs of a smoker or any other lung conditions may have grey or discoloured lungs.
What are the functions of lungs?
Lungs have alveoli inside them which facilitate the gas exchange. Alveoli collects the oxygen brought in and gives away the carbon dioxide from the body. Lungs have several crucial functions that keep us well apart from Oxygen Exchange, some of them are below:
- Carbon Dioxide Removal
- Regulation of Blood pH
- Protection Against Infections and Irritants
- Voice Production
Did you ever take some time to notice how your body feels during breathing?
For a healthy person, when you inhale, you may notice a sense of expansion and saturation. But when you exhale, it might feel like a gentle stretching or opening up at the chest area. You might feel your lungs more prominently when you are engaged in physical activities such as running or exercising. During the heightened awareness of lungs, your chest might feel the rise and fall profoundly along with a heavier breathing pattern. If the lungs are not optimal or efficient, you might experience discomfort or tightness in the chest, shortness of breath or wheezing etc. The above mentioned symptoms might be indicating underlying signs of distress and the lungs are communicating to the body.
Understanding how our lungs look, feel, and react will help us understand their importance and the need for medical attention when it is required.
What are the types of Lung diseases ?
Lung diseases are majorly categorised into 3 types, namely airway disease, lung tissue disease and lung circulation disease.
Airway Diseases
The name of this disease suggests the nature of disease also. Airway diseases are nothing but the conditions affecting the airway, making it heavy to breathe. With this Patients might have difficulty breathing in and out. Bronchiectasis and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease(COPD) are two examples of airway diseases.
Lung Tissue Diseases
Lung Tissue Diseases affect lung tissues. Affected lung tissues deteriorate the functioning of lungs which will make the lungs difficult to expand, take in oxygen, and release carbon dioxide. Lung tissue diseases are a group of disorders that affect lung tissue structures. Conditions like scarring and inflammation limits lung expansion which is common in lung tissue diseases making it difficult for oxygen exchange and carbon dioxide removal. One example of a lung tissue disease is pulmonary fibrosis.
Lung Circulation Diseases
In these types of diseases , the primary effect is on the blood vessels in and around the lungs. Overall respiratory function and oxygen exchange are affected as these diseases can disrupt the normal flow of blood through the lungs. Vasculitis and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome are examples of lung circulation diseases:
Did you know that there are some common Lung diseases that are prevalent?
Let us look at some of the most common lung diseases and their symptoms
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Lung Cancer
- Pneumonia
- Interstitial Lung Disease
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
- Tuberculosis (TB)
Why is it really important to care for your Lungs?
I know you might be thinking, are lungs the only important parts that need care in the body. Although not, maintaining healthy lungs is vital for overall well-being. Lung health directly impacts physical activity levels, sleep quality, and even mental health. Factors like air pollution, smoking, and occupational hazards can adversely affect lung function, making awareness and proactive care critical.
Some tips for Maintaining Healthy Lungs that I know you know but I will anyway repeat them:
- Avoid Smoking
- Monitor Air Quality
- Regular Check-Ups
- Stay Active
- Stay Hydrated
Recognizing Symptoms and When to Seek Help
It’s essential to be aware of the signs that indicate lung issues. Persistent cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain should not be ignored. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing potential lung diseases. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your lung health.
Conclusion
Overall health care would have lung care as one of the most important integral part. Knowing about the lungs, its diseases, symptoms will make you aware of the complications. Prevention and early detection of a condition are key to combating diseases and it is the same with lung diseases. “Be proactive today for a healthier breathing tomorrow”. We do not wish for your hospitalisation but if you ever feel you need medical attention or experience the symptoms mentioned in the above blog, please do visit Swasaclinics to keep your lungs blowing.
