What Are The Most Common Lung Diseases?

Emphysema

Emphysema is a lung condition where the small air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs incur damage and do not function properly. As the condition progresses, the alveoli become weakened and eventually burst. The surface area of the inside of the lungs becomes decreased, and symptoms occur because there is no room for new oxygenated air to enter. Symptoms of this condition include slow but progressive shortness of breath. At first, it only occurs upon exertion but eventually progresses to shortness of breath even while at rest. Emphysema patients experience shortness of breath to the point where they are unable to climb stairs, their lips and fingernails become pale or discolored upon exertion, and they experience changes in their ability to stay mentally alert upon exertion. An emphysema diagnosis is made with the use of chest x-rays, CT scans, blood testing, physical examination, and lung function tests. Treatment for this condition often includes inhaled steroid medications, antibiotics, bronchodilators, nutrition therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen, lung volume reduction surgery, and lung transplantation.

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