Lung disease: An ever-present threat an ever-present threat

CEBU, Philippines — There is a health threat that seems so stubborn as to be put out completely – lung disease.

The disease is comprised of disorders that affect the lungs, the organs that allow a person to breathe in order to supply the body organs with oxygen. Lung disease is a major concern, for both men and women.

These days, the number of people diagnosed with lung disease is reportedly on the rise. Many are dying from one type or the other of lung disease. The haze (from Indonesia) that recently hit Cebu City has stirred popular awareness on the hazards that the environment itself may pose against lung health.

The causes of all types of lung disease are not yet completely known, but health experts have established causes of some. The website www.womenshealth.gov lists the leading causes known so far:

Smoking. The smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco pipes is the number one cause of lung disease. It goes without saying that one shall never start smoking, or quit if he or she already smokes. If living or working with a smoker, one shall be on the lookout for secondhand smoke. Smokers shall smoke outdoors. Secondhand smoke is especially bad for babies and young children.

Radon. This colorless, odorless gas is present in many homes and is a recognized cause of lung cancer. Home owners shall check for radon with a kit that can be bought at many hardware stores. Radon can be reduced in homes where the substance is at high levels; the local health authorities shall be able to suggest ways for the house residents to follow.

Asbestos. This is natural mineral fiber that is used in insulation, fireproofing materials, car brakes, and other products. Asbestos can give off small fibers that are too small to be seen and can be inhaled by humans. Asbestos harms lung cells, causing lung scarring and lung cancer. It can cause mesothelioma, which is a cancer that forms in the tissue covering the lungs and many other organs of the body.

Air pollution. Recent studies suggest that some air pollutants like car exhaust may contribute to asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and other lung diseases.

Some diseases that affect the lungs, like the flu, are caused by germs – bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

In the light of the present environmental degradation, everyone needs to be doubly conscious about their exposure to triggers for lung disease, and try to minimize it as much as possible. It also helps to boost the body’s defenses against lung disease – and any disease – by eating nutritious and balanced diet.

How would one know if he or she has a lung disease? It is important to be keenly observant of one’s body. Early signs of lung disease are quite easy to overlook. One should be alarmed by not having his or her usual level of energy; it could be a sign of lung disease.

The signs and symptoms can differ according to the type of lung disease. The most common signs include trouble breathing, shortness of breath, feeling like one is not getting enough air, decreased ability to exercise, a cough that won’t go away, coughing up blood or mucus, and pain or discomfort when breathing in or out. In case of any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.