What causes lung disease?
Lung disease is an umbrella term for conditions that affect your breathing on a regular basis. These conditions affect both children and adults and if they’re not properly managed, they can become life-threatening. Some of the most common causes and types of lung disease include:
- Chronic inflammation, as with asthma
- Abnormal growths, including lung cancer
- Exposure to cigarette smoke, as with emphysema
- Infection of the air sacs (alveoli), as with pneumonia
- Fluid leakage from blood vessels, which is pulmonary edema
- Infection of your bronchial tubes (airways), such as bronchitis
You can even develop lung disease because of pressure on your chest wall, which is often linked to obesity. It’s even possible to have poor functioning nerves in your respiratory system, as with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, resulting in muscle issues that affect your breathing.
When should I see a doctor for lung disease?
Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center provides comprehensive on-site diagnostic testing and imaging, so your dedicated pulmonologist can get to the root of your lung disease quickly. You should schedule an exam for lung disease if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty catching your breath, either at rest or with exercise
- Wheezing or whistling while breathing
- Chest pain, tightness, or congestion
- Fainting spells
You should also come into Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center if your lung disease symptoms are starting to affect your sleep. For instance, if you wake up frequently because of your breathing, you may need some form of treatment.
What can I do to prevent lung disease complications?
Not all cases of lung disease can be prevented, although they can all generally be managed. Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center uses the latest research-based solutions to help you learn to manage your lung disease and restore your quality of life.
Once your doctor gets your lung disease under control, they talk with you about preventing flare-ups and life-threatening issues. Your doctor may recommend:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy, such as relaxation techniques
- Immunotherapy or allergy medications
- Long-acting or quick-relief inhalers
- Pneumococcal or flu vaccines
- Respiratory or oxygen therapy
- Weight loss management
- Smoking cessation
Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center wants to help you prevent the most serious of lung disease complications, so you can get back to doing the things you enjoy, without limitations.
You can expect comprehensive care for lung disease at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center. Booking online or over the phone.
