Common Pulmonary Diseases and Their Impact

The lungs are vulnerable to numerous serious illnesses, some of which are life-threatening and difficult to cure. Certain diseases require long-term treatment, while others have limited options for management. The following highlights key lung diseases:

Pulmonary fibrosis commonly results from occupational hazards. Prolonged exposure to substances like coal dust, asbestos, or silica can lead to lung tissue becoming fibrotic, reducing elasticity and impairing breathing.

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder characterized by dehydration of lung secretory cells and other glands. This stems from a defective transport protein that hampers chloride ion movement, leading to decreased sodium, water, and mucus clearance. As mucus becomes thicker, airflow is restricted, and infection risks increase. This condition can cause severe lung damage, including alveolar rupture and collapse, historically contributing to infant mortality. Advances in genetic research offer hope for future treatments.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, predominantly affecting smokers. It involves abnormal growth of respiratory epithelial cells, with two main types: small cell and non-small cell carcinoma. Since the lungs are integral to blood oxygenation, cancer can spread rapidly to other parts of the body. Symptoms such as persistent cough, sputum production, and airway blockage often appear late, making early detection crucial. Other lung disorders may stem from nervous system failures, like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, where infants unexpectedly stop breathing during sleep. Though no definitive cure exists, monitoring systems can provide early warnings for at-risk babies.