Your airways and lungs are one of the most critical parts of your body. It is what allows you to breathe in oxygen, one of the most critical components for our survival. 

But just like any other organ or organ system, unfortunately, there are some common lung problems we have to face. 

In today’s world, studies from different health organizations across the world say that the rise of lung disorders is a major concern. 

In this blog post, we are going to give you an idea about some of the most common lung diseases and their symptoms. Finally, our main focus will be to give you an idea of when to visit a pulmonologist.

Lung disorders can range from inflammation issues like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD, to infections like pneumonia or tuberculosis. And even a severe issue like cancer affecting the lungs is possible.  

Common lung disorders affecting humans

Lung disorders are often categorized as a form of critical health issue. It can affect anyone at any age. Let us give you an idea about some of the common lung problems.

Asthma

A form of inflammation occurs affecting the lungs and causes the patient to wheeze, feel short of breath, and feel tightness in the chest. 

COPD

Signs can be very similar to asthma, like chest congestion and infection, which is what most patients are confused about. 

Emphysema

This disorder means that the sacs or the small pouches that hold air inside the lungs are damaged. 

Bronchitis

This is a form of infection that affects the bronchioles, the entry point of the lungs after the windpipe, and becomes inflamed. 

Pneumonia

 This is a type of infection affecting the alveoli. 

Lung cancer

Formation of the tumour inside the lungs.

Cystic fibrosis

Doctors blame this issue on your genetic makeup, and it usually forms mucus blocking the airways. 

Pulmonary fibrosis

An issue where scars begin to form in the lung tissues, making you feel hard to breathe.

Other lung conditions

• Bronchiectatis

• Pulmonary edema

• Penumothrax

• Pulmonary embolism

• Sarcoidosis

• Mesothelioma

How do you find out the first signs of a lung issue?

Usually, when you suffer from a lung disorder or infection, the signs are not hard to identify. It is just about knowing the right lung disease symptoms, like-

• Coughing with blood coming out

• Short of breath

• Wheezing

• Chest pain

• Irritation or burning in the chest area

• Lips, finger nails getting a bluish tinge, also known as cyanosis

Signs you cannot ignore that it is time to see a pulmonologist

The problem with most people is that they do not actually know when to see a pulmonologist. Sometimes, they just do not have any idea about the symptoms, while on other occasions, they would not bother about it too much. 

Let us give you a few signs, as told by doctors, that it is already high time that you visit a pulmonologist now-

• You have a persistent cough that is not getting better, even after taking pills and spitting out blood.

• You feel short of breath even with normal activities

• You have been smoking for a long time and often have throat burn or chest tightness

• You are suffering from breathing issues, along with swelling of the feet and legs

• You have signs of asthma or COPD

• A chest X-ray or a CT scan shows any sign of abnormality

• Sleeping for long hours during the day 

• Having heavy snoring during nighttime sleep, a condition known as sleep apnea

Green City Hospital- The place to consult top pulmonologists in India

Green City Hospital in Noida is one of the most specialized hospitals with the best chest and pulmonary experts in India. We have the best therapeutic remedies for a range of lung and pulmonary disorders or infections. 

With the most advanced healthcare and diagnostic machines, we use them for the diagnosis and treatment of the patient. Our team of doctors and pulmonary experts takes personalized care of each patient, providing good care for hospitalized and outpatient patients. 

FAQs:  

Q1. What are the most common lung problems?

Ans: If you talk about the most common lung problems, it has to go to lung infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, and so on. 

Q2. Are long-term coughs a sign of lung disease?

Ans: Yes, studies show that in more than 90% of cases, the patient is suffering from a lung disease already. It is one of the major signs that indicate severe asthma, lung infections like TB, bronchitis, and so on. 

Q3. Can lung diseases be prevented?

Ans: To avoid lung allergies and infections, remain indoors, take immune shots, and eat an immunized diet during seasonal changes. 

Q4. When should I see a pulmonologist?

Ans: Visit a pulmonologist if you track any signs as given here in this blog post for a few days, as they often get severe. 

Q5. Is shortness of breath always serious?

Ans: No, shortness of breath is not always serious until you start to have it abnormally before other people normally at your age.