What diseases or disorders affect the lungs?

There are numerous diseases and disorders that can affect the lungs. Here are some common examples:

1. Asthma: A chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A group of progressive lung diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD causes airflow limitation due to damage to the lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.

3. Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

4. Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. TB can cause persistent coughing, fever, weight loss, and fatigue.

5. Lung Cancer: A malignant growth of cells in the lung tissue. Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and weight loss.

6. Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi, the large airways that carry air to and from the lungs. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by viral infections, while chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition often associated with smoking.

7. Emphysema: A progressive lung disease characterized by the destruction of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs. Emphysema leads to shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.

8. Pulmonary Edema: A condition in which fluid accumulates in the lungs, causing shortness of breath, coughing, and difficulty lying down.

9. Pulmonary Fibrosis: A chronic lung disease characterized by the scarring and thickening of lung tissue. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue.

10. Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura, the membrane that lines the lungs and the chest cavity. Pleurisy can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing.

11. Sleep Apnea: A sleep disorder characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea can lead to daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems.

12. Chronic Respiratory Failure: A condition in which the lungs are unable to adequately exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to dangerously low blood oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels.

These are just a few examples of the many diseases and disorders that can affect the lungs. If you experience persistent respiratory symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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