Each day, people visit health centers throughout the country for issues concerning their lungs. Lung diseases are common, affecting tens of millions of Americans. Here’s what you should know about lung diseases and how to keep your lungs healthy.

Understanding Lung Diseases

What Are the Most Common Lung Diseases?

Many types of lung disease exist, but here are a few of the most common:

• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): COPD refers to a group of lung diseases that worsen over time, the most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD prevents a person from exhaling normally, making it difficult to breathe. 
• Asthma: A chronic condition that causes symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing, asthma is often triggered by allergies, infections, or pollution.
• Pneumonia: Usually caused by bacteria or viruses, pneumonia is an infection of tiny sacs within the lungs called alveoli. Symptoms include coughing with phlegm or pus, trouble breathing, fever, and chills.
• Lung Cancer: Lung cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lungs. It can develop in any part of the lungs and is often caused by smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke. 
• Bronchitis: Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways that deliver air to your lungs, also known as the bronchial tubes. Symptoms include shortness of breath, a low fever, wheezing, and chest tightness. 

If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from a lung disease, contact a health center right away. 

How Can You Protect Your Lungs?

You can reduce your chances of developing a lung disease by: 

• Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
• Exercising regularly to improve lung strength
• Getting an annual flu shot, and avoiding large crowds during flu season
• Routinely visiting your health center for check-ups.
• Testing your environment’s air for pollutants and contaminants
• Maintaining your oral hygiene to prevent bacteria from entering your upper airway

If you or a loved one is living with a lung disease, turn to the compassionate team at Wolcott View Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center. Located in New Haven County, CT, their 20-bed heart and lung center helps patients manage conditions such as COPD, pneumonia, asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema with high-quality care from physician specialists and respiratory therapists. Patients enjoy private rooms featuring piped-in oxygen and wall suction. To make the most of their recovery, they can also take advantage of the therapy gym, entertainment lounge, and outdoor courtyard. Learn more about this trusted health center online, and call (203) 879-8066 to schedule a tour.