Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Both chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two primary types of COPD. As emphysema worsens, the tiny air sacs in the lungs called alveoli suffer damage and lose some of their elastic properties. 

The capacity of the sacs to transfer gases like oxygen from the blood to the air we breathe in is therefore decreased. As a result, dangerous substances could build up and hypoxia (a lack of oxygen in the blood) might happen. The bronchial tube lining becomes irritated and inflamed as a result of chronic bronchitis.

Breathing may become more challenging and mucus production may increase as a result of the swelling. The signs and symptoms of COPD might vary depending on the kind. 

Common symptoms include wheezing, a protracted cough, mucus, and a squeaking or whistling sound when you breathe. Chest tightness, a higher risk of respiratory infections, weight loss, oedema, and cyanosis (a blue tint to the lips or fingernails) are other symptoms. After exertion, breathlessness is another sign.

 Asthma

The risk of asthma is increased in those with allergies, respiratory diseases, or a family history of it. Asthma is a long-lasting inflammatory condition that makes breathing difficult. This is because the airways are constrained by swelling or obstructed by mucus.

Although the severity of the ailment varies from person to person, the majority of patients use preventative medicine to manage their symptoms and avoid flare-ups. The symptoms of asthma might include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

 Lung Cancer

One of the most frequent malignancies is lung cancer. It can cause both small-cell lung cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer, the latter of which is more prevalent. Cigarette smoking, both active and passive, is one of the leading causes of lung cancer.

Lung cancer usually develops slowly and without symptoms. Symptoms include trouble breathing, weariness, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, face or neck swelling, and a cough that produces bloody mucus.

 Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) can lead to issues with both breathing and digestion. This is because it tends to create thick mucus. Although the illness can affect several organs, it typically results in issues with the lungs. This includes obstructions from thick mucus that trap dangerous germs and cause infections.

If a diagnosis is not made at birth, it may be determined later based on symptoms that appear in childhood. The symptoms of cystic fibrosis can take many different forms, including continuous coughing, coughing up blood or mucus, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms include frequent respiratory or sinus infections, nasal polyps, constipation, and oily or foul-smelling faeces.

 Bronchitis

Bronchitis is brought on when the bronchial tube becomes irritated or inflamed. The lining of the bronchial tube may produce excessive amounts of mucus to cover the inflammation. Breathing may be difficult due to the mucous. 

Swelling of the airway can also be brought on by inflammation. It will constrict as a result, making breathing more difficult. An infection is often to blame for the inflammation in acute bronchitis. Repeated exposure to cigarette smoke or pollution, results in chronic bronchitis, which inflames the airways.

Bronchitis that persists throughout time. Exacerbations are possible, especially if you have a cold or similar respiratory illness. You could experience both periods of respite and times when it becomes worse. Under the COPD umbrella is chronic bronchitis. 

Although it is not a type of COPD, acute bronchitis exhibits some of the same symptoms as the condition. Coughs, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and fevers are some of these symptoms.

 Emphysema

Emphysema is a kind of COPD that develops as the lungs' alveoli become less elastic. With each breath, these sacs expand, contract, and stretch, allowing air to flow in and out of them. 

These sacs are damaged and unable to expand when you breathe if you have emphysema. Your lungs' ability to transfer oxygen into your blood is compromised when these air sacs die.

Emphysema can be brought on by exposure to various pollutants and chemicals. Additionally, emphysema risk factors include age and obesity. You might not have any symptoms if you have early emphysema. The symptoms worsen over time and include chest aches, coughing and breathing difficulties.