Lung Problems in Children

Children can develop many different lung problems. The most common lung problem affecting children is asthma. Other less common lung problems include cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, interstitial lung disease, bronchiolitis obliterans and immotile cilia syndrome.

Asthma

• Asthma is a condition that causes the lungs' airways to become inflamed intermittently. Inflammation of the airways leads to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing and congestion.

Cystic Fibrosis

• Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder that causes bodily secretions, such as mucus, saliva, sweat and digestive substances, to be sticky and thick. Thick, sticky mucus in the lungs can damage the lungs and constrict airways.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a lung condition that may occur as a result of prolonged dependence on ventilators following birth, usually due to premature birth.

Other Lung Conditions

• Other lung conditions that may affect children are interstitial lung disease, bronchiolitis obliterans and immotile cilia syndrome. Interstitial lung disease is a condition that causes gradual scarring of the lungs. Bronchiolitis obliterans is a condition that results in lung inflammation. Immotile cilia syndrome is a condition that occurs when the lungs are unable to clear out mucus, resulting in blockages.

Treatments

• Lung treatments vary depending on the condition being treated. Children with asthma and cystic fibrosis may require breathing treatments and bronchodilators or inhalers. In addition, children with cystic fibrosis may need to take medications to thin mucus secretions.