Knowing the early signs of lung disease can help us seek treatment before the condition deteriorates or even becomes life-threatening.
Symptoms of lung disease may come on slowly and unobtrusively at first. People often think that their symptoms are a sign that they are getting old or out of shape. Many people modify their daily activities to accommodate or lessen their symptoms instead of seeking help. By knowing the early signs of lung disease, you can get treatment before it gets worse or life-threatening. An annoying cough or mild wheezing can go unnoticed during our busy days, but it’s important to pay attention to even the smallest symptoms. Breathing problems should be checked regularly because they can be the first signs of lung disorders, such as COPD, asthma, or lung cancer.
Early Warning Signs of Lung Diseases:
- Chronic cough: A cough that has persisted for at least eight weeks is said to be chronic. This crucial early symptom alerts you to a problem with your respiratory system.
- Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath that persists after exercise, or that you experience with little or no exertion, is not typical. Another red flag is labored or labored breathing, which is the feeling that it is difficult to breathe in and out.
- Chronic mucus production: The airways create mucus, also known as sputum or phlegm, to protect itself from irritants or disease. Mucus production that has lasted for a month or more may be a sign of lung disease.
- Wheezing: Noisy breathing or wheezing are symptoms of a rare obstruction or narrowing of the airways in the lungs.
- Chest discomfort: Undiagnosed chest discomfort that lasts for a month or longer, especially if worsened by coughing or inhaling, is another red flag.
When you see any of the warning signs, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. (With input from Dr Sanggita Checker, Chest Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road)
