Why my lungs shrink?

1. Aging:

As we age, our lungs naturally lose elasticity. This is because the elastin fibers in our lungs weaken and become less able to stretch and recoil. As a result, our lungs become smaller and less able to hold air.

2. Smoking:

Smoking is one of the leading causes of lung shrinkage. The chemicals in cigarettes damage the elastin fibers in our lungs, causing them to weaken and lose their elasticity. Smoking also causes inflammation in the lungs, which can further damage the lung tissue.

3. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):

COPD is a group of lung diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD causes inflammation and damage to the lungs, which can lead to lung shrinkage.

4. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF):

IPF is a lung disease that causes scarring and thickening of the lung tissue. This can lead to lung shrinkage and difficulty breathing.

5. Sarcoidosis:

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that can affect the lungs and other organs. It can cause scarring and thickening of the lung tissue, which can lead to lung shrinkage.

6. Tuberculosis:

Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that can affect the lungs. It can cause scarring and damage to the lung tissue, which can lead to lung shrinkage.