Pulmonary diseases are conditions that affect the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system. They can develop as a result an infection, air pollution, exposure to allergens or irritants, or tobacco smoking.
What are the most common types of pulmonary disease?
Some of the most common types of pulmonary disease are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) asthma, and occupational lung diseases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Occupational asthma is the most common type of occupational lung disease.
What are the signs and symptoms of pulmonary disease?
Signs and symptoms of pulmonary disease may depend on the type, but can include breathlessness, wheezing, coughing, and chest pain.
What is idiopathic pulmonary disease?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a type of pulmonary fibrosis, which refers to scarring of the lungs. "Idiopathic" means that there is no identifiable cause for this. This condition is progressive, but some medications may help slow it down.