Asthma :: Allergy :: Bronchiectasis :: COPD
Cystic Fibrosis :: Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
Respiratory Infections :: Sleep Disorders :: Lung Cancer

Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis is a relatively rare condition that affects the Lungs. In this disorder the bronchial tubes become enlarged and distended forming pockets where infection may gather. The walls themselves are damaged which results in impairment to the lung's complex cleaning system. The tiny hairs, called cilia - which line the bronchial tubes and sweep them free of dust, germs and excess mucus - are destroyed. When this cleaning system is not working effectively dust, mucus, bacteria accumulate and there is Infection of the lungs develops.

Bronchiectasis can be congenital (inborn) or acquired.

Congenital bronchiectasis is a rare condition in which the lung periphery fails to develop, resulting in cystic dilation of developed bronchi.

Acquired bronchiectasis results from
(1) direct bronchial wall destruction--due to infection, inhalation of noxious chemicals, immunologic reactions, or vascular abnormalities that interfere with bronchial nutrition-or
(2) mechanical alterations--due to lung collapse or loss of parenchymal volume with increased traction on the walls of airways, leading to bronchial dilation and secondary infection.

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Cystic Fibrosis

When a person has CF, their mucous glands secrete very thick sticky mucus. The mucus clogs the tiny air passages in the lungs and traps bacteria. Repeated infections and blockages can cause irreversible lung damage and a shortened life. The pancreas is also affected, this prevents the release of enzymes which are needed to digest food. This means that people with CF can have problems with nutrition.

As yet, there is no known cure for CF, but there is real hope.

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Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) is a general term that includes a variety of chronic lung disorders. ILD may be Chronic, Malignant or Non-infectious.

ILD may also be called interstitial pulmonary fibrosis or pulmonary fibrosis.

When a person has ILD, the lung is affected in three ways. First, the lung tissue is damaged in some known or unknown way. Second, the walls of the air sacs in the lung become inflamed. Finally, scarring (or fibrosis) begins in the interstitium (or tissue between the air sacs), and the lung becomes stiff.

Breathlessness during exercise can be one of the first symptoms of these diseases. A dry cough also may be present. These are common symptoms that many people ignore. Someone with these symptoms may wait until they feel quite ill before going to the doctor.

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