What is the name of the disease associated with the lungs. Symptoms of lung disease. Treatment and prognosis of selected pulmonary diseases

The lungs are part of the respiratory system and are located inside the chest, above the diaphragm. Lungs- These are complex organs that consist of spongy, elastic tissue, designed to absorb oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide.

Oxygen enters the lungs when we breathe in. It is distributed to the lungs by a system called the bronchial tree, which has smaller diameter branches (called bronchi and bronchioles). bronchial tree carries oxygen to small sacs (alveoli) deep in the lungs, where oxygen (taken from the air we breathe) moves from the lung to the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide (a by-product of our metabolism) moves from the bloodstream to the lungs and is exhaled when we exhale.

Oxygen intake and the delivery of this oxygen (through the blood) to the tissues is necessary for the functioning of all cells in our body. Removal of carbon dioxide necessary to maintain blood pH at an appropriate level as part of the body's acid-base balance system.

Because the air we breathe contains many components from the environment (such as dust, pollen, bacteria, viruses, smoke, and volatile chemicals), the lungs maintain a defense system against these potentially toxic invaders. Lung protection system depends on immune cells and mucus secretion to contain and remove these unwanted components from the lungs.

lung disease

Lung diseases are conditions in which lung function is impaired. In some cases, the problem lies in the process of gas exchange that occurs in the membrane between the alveoli and the blood; this prevents the efficient uptake of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide.

In other cases, the problem lies in the inability of the bronchial system to effectively deliver air to the alveoli, perhaps due to blockage of the branches of the bronchial tree or because the muscles of the chest do not expand and contract enough to move air through the bronchi (tree in the alveoli).

Sometimes the problem is the inability of the lungs to remove or detoxify foreign substances, perhaps due to an underlying deficiency or due to the huge amount of these substances that overload the lung's defense systems.

A list of common lung diseases in humans include:

Asthma

In chronic bronchitis, the bronchi become inflamed and scarred. With emphysema, they are slowly destroyed. In both disorders, it becomes increasingly difficult for patients to exhale and get enough oxygen when they inhale.

Smoking causes 80 to 90 percent of COPD-related deaths. Other risk factors include exposure to polluted air.

Fibrosis of the lungs

Pulmonary fibrosis is an interstitial (located between adjacent tissues) lung disease. causes damage and scarring of the tissues between the air sacs, inflammation of the air sacs, and scarring of the lungs. Reasons include:

• occupational or environmental exposure to fine particles (including repeated exposure to inorganic substances such as asbestos, coal, beryllium and silica);
• repeated exposure to organic matter (mold, hay, animal droppings and grain dust) which can cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis and eventually lead to pulmonary fibrosis;
• chemicals and drugs that are toxic to the lungs;
• radiation therapy;
• and others ;
• fibrosis can also be idiopathic (that is, occurring on its own or from an unknown cause).

lung disease infections

infections may occur primarily in the lungs, develop in the pleura (membranes surrounding the lungs), or affect the entire body (including the lungs). They can be acute or chronic, caused by bacteria, viruses, and, less commonly, fungi.

Mycobacterial infections develop slowly and may be systemic or limited to the lungs.

Lungs' cancer

Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of malignant cells in the lungs. There are two main types: small cell and non-small cell lung cancer.

Other types of cancer can spread to the lungs and are considered metastatic because the cancer cells do not originate in the lung tissue itself, but instead spread from the liver or bones, for example.

In recent years, the number of deaths from lung cancer has increased in women, while in men it has decreased.

Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer death in general. Risks for lung cancer include:

• active smoking;
• second hand smoke;
• occupational exposure to asbestos, steel, nickel, chromium and coal gas processing;
• irradiation.

Pulmonary hypertension

pulmonary embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that usually originates in the veins of the legs or pelvis and travels to the lungs, where it blocks a blood vessel, causing chest pain, severe shortness of breath, and coughing. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a lung disease that develops primarily in premature infants who have received long-term oxygen therapy and/or have been on a ventilator for a long time, but can also be seen in those who have experienced oxygen toxicity or have had pneumonia. ,

In this condition, the airways become inflamed, do not develop normally, and can be damaged.

Respiratory distress syndrome

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDSD) refers to a childhood illness. Neonatal ARDS is a life-threatening breathing problem that can develop in babies born earlier than 6 weeks before due date (i.e. premature).

The lungs of these premature babies are not developed enough to produce enough of a protective liquid substance in the lungs called surfactant. Without surfactant, the lungs cannot expand or inflate properly, and children have difficulty inhaling enough oxygen.

The condition may occur within hours of a premature birth.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome

Other lung diseases

Other disorders do not directly affect the lungs, but they impair a person's ability to breathe properly because they affect the chest cavity, muscles, nerves, and/or the heart.

These disorders include various conditions such as neuromuscular diseases ( muscular dystrophy, poliomyelitis, and) and disorders that result in abnormal development of the spine or movement of the chest, which may limit lung expansion.

Note: the specific evaluation and treatment of these disorders is beyond the scope of this article.

Signs and symptoms of lung disease

Signs and symptoms associated with lung disease vary from person to person and change over time. In chronic conditions, symptoms often appear gradually and worsen progressively.

In acute conditions, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some illnesses can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention.

While each disease has its own characteristics, there are common signs and symptoms that are seen in many lung diseases, including: persistent cough and .

People may wheeze, choke and cough up blood or phlegm, and experience chest pain. People with obstructive lung disease (such as COPD) may experience breathing problems(some describe the condition as "trying to breathe through a straw").

Lack of oxygen can lead to the patient's skin will take on a bluish tint. Over time, the lack of oxygen in some people can lead to clubs(enlarged fingertips and abnormal nail growth).

What examinations need to be done?

Examinations are done to diagnose lung diseases, determine their causes (where possible) and evaluate their severity.

Many doctors prescribe arterial blood gas analysis to assess the level of oxygen and carbon dioxide, pulmonary function tests (PFT) to help diagnose and monitor lung function, and chest x-ray and/or CT (computed tomography) to look at the structure of the lungs.

Other examination methods are also performed to help diagnose certain diseases.

Laboratory tests

• Blood gas analysis - a sample of arterial blood is collected to assess blood pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide;
• Complete blood count (CBC) - looking for;
• Tests for cystic fibrosis (CFTR gene analysis, sweat chloride, immunoreactive trypsin (IRT), stool trypsin, pancreatic elastase) - to look for genetic mutations that cause the disease itself;
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin - to determine if a patient has an AAT deficiency;
• Saliva analysis - to diagnose lung infections caused by bacteria;
• AFB smear and culture - for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTMB);
• Blood cultures - to diagnose bacteria and sometimes yeast infections that have spread into the blood
• Analysis - for diagnosing influenza;
• Lung biopsy - to evaluate lung tissue for damage and cancer;
• Sputum cytology - to evaluate lung cells for pathological changes and cancer;
• Tests for the content of drugs in the body - to detect overdoses that lead to decreased breathing or acute respiratory failure.

Lung function tests (pulmonary function tests, PFT)

Some of the more common tests are listed below.

• Spirometry - measures the amount and speed of exhalation of air when the patient is blown out through the tube. It is done to evaluate narrowed or blocked airways.
• Air flow using a peak flow meter - measures the rate of exhalation. Patients with asthma can do it at home to control their condition.
• Lung volume - measures the amount of air that a person takes into the lungs, and its remaining in the lungs after exhalation. This helps assess lung compliance, chest movement, and the strength of the muscles associated with breathing.
• Measuring lung diffusivity - examines the transfer of oxygen from lung air sacs to the bloodstream by assessing the uptake of carbon monoxide when a small amount (not enough to cause harm) is inhaled.

Visual inspections

• X-ray of the chest - examination of the structures of the lungs and the cavity of the chest;
• CT (computed tomography) - allows you to assess the structure of the lungs in more detail;
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) - provides detailed images of organs and vessels in the chest;
• Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) - detects fluid between the pleural membranes;
• Nuclear lung scan - helps detect pulmonary embolism and is rarely used to assess the effectiveness of lung cancer treatment;
• Positron emission tomography (PET) - helps diagnose lung cancer.

Other diagnostic methods

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) - analyzes the heart rhythm to determine if heart disease is affecting breathing;
• Sleep studies - help determine if a person is breathing normally during sleep and is usually done in special sleep and wake centers.

Treatment and prevention of lung diseases

Treatment of lung diseases is aimed at preventing the disease wherever possible; treat infections and prevent their spread to others; reduce inflammation; stop or slow the progression of lung damage; relieve symptoms; facilitate breathing; minimize the side effects associated with certain types of treatment; provide victims with sufficient oxygen.

Many cases of lung disease can be prevented by quitting smoking by minimizing exposure to particulate matter (such as asbestos, coal, beryllium, silica, mold, grain dust, air pollution) and chemicals and drugs known to affect the lungs.

People with a weakened immune system or existing lung conditions, and very young or old people should talk to their doctor about whether annual flu shots and pneumococcal vaccines to minimize the risk of contracting the flu and pneumonia.

New treatments for lung disease continue to be developed and patient needs for treatment change over time. Patients should periodically talk to their doctors about the treatments that are right for them.

Interesting

The respiratory system, in particular the lungs, play a huge role in ensuring the normal functioning of our body. In them, the most important of the processes takes place - gas exchange, as a result of which the blood is saturated with oxygen and carbon dioxide is released into the environment. Therefore, the violation of this function inevitably affects the whole organism as a whole.

Such phenomena are due to the fact that at the molecular level, most of the processes of our vital activity are associated with oxidation, which cannot be carried out without the participation of oxygen known to all of us. If a person can live without food for weeks, without water for days, then without air a few minutes. The cerebral cortex, under standard environmental conditions, after stopping breathing and blood circulation, dies within 5-7 minutes.

As a result of hypoxia (oxygen starvation), the reserves of macroergic bonds (in particular ATP) are depleted in the body, which leads to energy deficiency. Along with this, there is an accumulation of metabolic products, resulting in the formation of acidosis (acidification of the blood). This is a rather severe condition that can eventually lead to death. That's where all the symptoms come from. Therefore, it is sometimes not necessary to treat respiratory disorders so negligently.

Signs of lung disease are very diverse and largely depend on the pathogen, severity and extent of damage. According to the modern classification, all lung diseases are divided into two large classes: inflammatory and non-inflammatory.

The former include various kinds of pneumonia, tuberculosis, etc.), and the latter, most often, occupational pathology (anthracosis, silicosis, asbestosis, and others. In this section, we will consider only those that relate to inflammatory processes.

In order to perceive the picture more clearly and to orientate a little in the variety of everything stated below, let us recall a little anatomy of the respiratory system. It consists of the nasopharynx, the trachea of ​​the bronchi, which in turn are divided dichotomously first into two large ones, and then into smaller ones, which eventually end in sac-like protrusions called alveoli. It is in them that oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the lungs and blood, and it is in them that all the diseases that we will talk about in this article occur.

The first and main signs of lung disease

1. Breathlessness is the feeling of lack of air. It occurs both in the pathology of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The occurrence of shortness of breath of respiratory genesis is characterized by a violation of the frequency, depth and rhythm of breathing. I distinguish the following types:

• Inspiratory shortness of breath - when the process of inhalation is difficult. It occurs in connection with the narrowing of the lumen of the larynx, trachea, bronchi (foreign bodies, edema, swelling).
• Expiratory shortness of breath - when the process of exhalation is difficult. It occurs in diseases such as bronchial asthma, pulmonary emphysema, obstructive bronchitis.
• Mixed shortness of breath - when both inhalation and exhalation are difficult. Occurs during the development of certain lung diseases, such as lobar pneumonia, tuberculosis, etc., when the supply of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide are disturbed.
• Choking is an intense attack of shortness of breath that occurs suddenly. Most often it accompanies bronchial asthma, embolism or thrombosis (blockage) of the pulmonary artery, pulmonary edema, acute swelling of the vocal cords.

2. Cough- a complex reflex-protective act that occurs as a result of foreign objects entering the respiratory tract or accumulation of secretions (sputum, mucus, blood) there, due to the development of various inflammatory processes.

• Cough can occur reflexively, as in the case of dry pleurisy.
• Dry cough is observed with laryngitis, tracheitis, pneumosclerosis, bronchial asthma, when the bronchial lumen contains viscous sputum, the discharge of which is difficult;
• Wet cough occurs during an exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, when the bronchi contain a wet secret, as well as inflammation, tuberculosis, abscess (in cases of breakthrough) and bronchiectasis. Phlegm happens:
  • Mucous, with acute catarrhal bronchitis, bronchial asthma;
  • Purulent, during purulent bronchitis, a breakthrough of a lung abscess;
  • Rusty sputum is characteristic of croupous pneumonia;
  • In the form of "raspberry jelly" in cases of lung cancer;
  • Black, fetid with gangrene of the lung;

Sputum in the mouth, especially in the morning, is characteristic of an abscess rupture, bronchiectasis.

• A persistent cough is characteristic of chronic diseases of the bronchi and lungs (chronic laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, bronchiectasis, pulmonary tuberculosis, foreign bodies entering the respiratory tract).
• Periodic cough occurs in people who are sensitive to cold, smokers and those with bronchiectasis.
• Periodic paroxysmal cough is observed with whooping cough.
• A barking cough is characteristic of laryngitis;
• Silent, hoarse cough occurs when the vocal cords are damaged in tuberculosis, syphilis, when the rotary nerve is compressed;
• Quiet coughing occurs in the first stage of lobar pneumonia, dry pleurisy and in the initial stage of tuberculosis;
• Night cough is noted with tuberculosis, lymphogranulomatosis, malignant tumors. At the same time, the lymph nodes of the mediastinum increase and irritate the bifurcation (separation) zone of the trachea, especially at night, when the tone of the vagus nerve increases;

3. Hemoptysis occurs with tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, abscess, gangrene and lung cancer. Fresh blood in the sputum is characteristic of tuberculosis. In the presence of pulmonary bleeding, the blood has a frothy consistency, an alkaline reaction, accompanied by a dry cough.

4. Pain in the lungs.

• The pain that appears after a deep breath, coughing is characteristic of dry pleurisy (when fibrin is deposited on the pleura and friction between the sheets occurs). In this case, the patient tries to delay the cough and lie down on the sore side;
• Slight pain may appear after suffering pleurisy as a result of the formation of adhesions (sticking together of sheets);
• Severe pain in the chest is characteristic of malignant tumors of the pleura, or the germination of a lung tumor into the pleura;
• When the phrenic nerve is involved in the inflammatory process, pain can radiate to the arm, neck, stomach, simulating various diseases;
• Acute, intense, sudden onset pain in a limited area of ​​the chest is characteristic of pneumothorax at the site of a pleural rupture. Parallel to this, there is shortness of breath, cyanosis and a decrease in blood pressure as a result of compression atelectasis;
• Pain with intercostal neuralgia, myiasis, herpes zoster increases with inclination to the affected side;

5. Increase in body temperature accompanies inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, as well as tuberculosis;

6. Weakness, malaise, loss of appetite, lethargy and decreased ability to work- these are all symptoms of intoxication;

7. Change in the color of the skin.

• Pallor of the skin is noted in patients with exudative pleurisy;
• Hyperemia (redness) on the affected side in combination with cyanosis (cyanosis) is characteristic of croupous pneumonia;

8. Herpetic eruptions;

9. Position of the patient:

• The position on the sore side is typical for such diseases as dry pleurisy, bronchiectasis, pneumonia, etc.
• Orthoped - a semi-sitting position is occupied by people with bronchial asthma, pulmonary edema, etc.;

10. Symptom of "drum sticks" and "watch glasses"(due to chronic hypoxia, proliferation of bone tissue occurs in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe terminal phalanges of the fingers and toes) is characteristic of chronic lung diseases;

Signs and symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis

1. An unmotivated increase in temperature to 37.2-37.5, especially in the evening;
2. Night cold sweat;
3. Intoxication syndrome: weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite;
4. weight loss;
5. Cough. It can be dry or wet, it can be insignificant and disturb the patient only in the morning or constant and frequent;
6. Hemoptysis occurs during rupture of blood vessels;
7. Shortness of breath, as a rule, occurs when the process is localized in both lungs;
8. Glitter of the eyes;
9. Blush on cheeks;
10. Enlargement of the lymph nodes of the neck, armpits, groin, etc.

Croupous pneumonia or pleuropneumonia:

• Syndrome of intoxication:
  • weakness,
  • fatigue,
  • loss of appetite
  • headache,
  • muscle pain;
• Syndrome of general inflammatory changes:
  • feeling hot,
  • Chills,
  • Temperature rise,
• Syndrome of inflammatory changes in the lungs:
  • Cough;
  • Sputum;
  • Pain in the chest, which increases during breathing, coughing;

Pneumonia is characterized by an acute onset. The body temperature suddenly rises to 39-40 degrees, which is accompanied by severe chills and severe pain in the chest. The pain intensifies during breathing, coughing. At first, the cough is dry and painful, and after 1-2 days, rusty sputum appears. Then the sputum becomes mucopurulent, and after recovery, the cough disappears. Symptoms of intoxication are expressed. At the same time there are herpetic eruptions on the lips, wings of the nose.

The fever is constant, lasting an average of 7-12 days. The decrease in temperature to normal is carried out within a few hours (crisis) or gradually (lysis). With a crisis decrease, a decrease in blood pressure is possible, a frequent, weak “thread-like” pulse.

Bronchopneumonia:

If bronchopneumonia develops against the background of bronchitis, catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, etc., the onset of the disease cannot be established.

However, often, especially in young people, the onset is acute and is characterized by the following symptoms:

• chills;
• An increase in temperature to 38-39 ° C;
• weakness;
• headache;
• Cough (dry or with mucopurulent sputum);
• chest pain;
• increased breathing (up to 25-30 per minute).

Symptoms of lung disease sarcoidosis

Signs of sarcoidosis of the lungs may be accompanied by symptoms such as:

• Malaise;
• Anxiety;
• fatigue;
• General weakness;
• Weight loss;
• Loss of appetite;
• Fever;
• sleep disorders;
• Night sweats.

With intrathoracic lymph glandular form in half of the patients, the course of sarcoidosis of the lungs is asymptomatic, in the other half, clinical manifestations are observed in the form of such symptoms as:

• weakness,
• pain in the chest and joints,
• cough,
• increase in body temperature,
• appearance of erythema nodosum.

Flow mediastinal-pulmonary form sarcoidosis is accompanied

• cough,
• shortness of breath
• chest pains.
• skin lesions,
• eye,
• peripheral lymph nodes,
• parotid salivary glands (Herford's syndrome),
• bones (symptom of Morozov-Jungling).

For pulmonary form Sarcoidosis is characterized by the presence of:

• shortness of breath
• cough with phlegm,
• chest pain,
• arthralgia.

Symptoms of a fungal lung disease

The most common culprits of fungal diseases are actinomycetes.

Symptoms of actinomycosis of the lungs at the initial stage of the disease, they resemble bronchopneumonia in the clinical picture. In patients:

• body temperature rises
• there is profuse sweating,
• prostration,
• wet cough, sometimes with blood in the sputum

In the second stage of actinomycosis of the lungs, the fungus affects pleura, causing dry pleurisy, which eventually turns into an exudative form. Micelles of the fungus penetrate into the muscle tissue of the chest and lead to the formation of dense infiltrates. These formations are quite painful, they are characterized by the so-called fire soreness.

The third stage of actinomycosis is accompanied by the formation of fistulas, the process of granulation and the release of pus.

Emphysema- a chronic lung disease characterized by the expansion of small bronchioles (the terminal branches of the bronchi) and the destruction of the partitions between the alveoli. The name of the disease comes from the Greek emphysao - to inflate. Air-filled voids form in the lung tissue, and the organ itself swells and increases significantly in volume.

Manifestations of emphysema- shortness of breath, shortness of breath, cough with a slight secretion of mucous sputum, signs of respiratory failure. Over time, the chest expands and takes on a characteristic barrel shape.

Reasons for the development of emphysema divided into two groups:

• Factors that violate the elasticity and strength of the lung tissue - inhalation of polluted air, smoking, congenital deficiency of alpha-1-antitrypsin (a substance that stops the destruction of the walls of the alveoli).
• Factors that increase air pressure in the bronchi and alveoli - chronic obstructive bronchitis, blockage of the bronchus by a foreign body.

Disease risk some categories are higher than other people:

• Congenital forms of pulmonary emphysema associated with a deficiency of whey protein are more often detected in residents of Northern Europe.
• Men get sick more often. Emphysema is found at autopsy in 60% of men and 30% of women.
• People who smoke are 15 times more likely to develop emphysema. Passive smoking is also dangerous.

Anatomy of the lungs

Each lung is surrounded by a two-layered pleura. One of its layers fuses with the lung, and the other with the chest. Between the sheets of the pleura there is a space - the pleural cavity, in which there is a certain amount of pleural fluid. This structure contributes to the expansion of the lungs during inspiration.

Due to the peculiarities of the anatomy, the right lung is 10% larger than the left. The right lung has three lobes and the left has two. The lobes are divided into segments, which in turn are divided into secondary lobules. The latter consist of 10-15 acini.
The gates of the lung are located on the inner surface. This is the place where the bronchi, arteries, and veins enter the lung. Together they make up the root of the lung.

Lung functions:

• provide blood oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide
• participate in heat transfer due to the evaporation of liquid
• secrete immunoglobulin A and other substances to protect against infections
• involved in the transformation of the hormone - angiotensin, causing vasoconstriction

1. bronchi, through which air enters the lungs;
2. alveoli in which gas exchange occurs;
3. blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs and back to the heart

1. Trachea and bronchi are called the airways.

   The trachea at the level of 4-5 vertebrae is divided into 2 bronchi - right and left. Each of the bronchi enters the lung and makes up the bronchial tree there. The right and left are the bronchi of the 1st order, in the place of their branching, the bronchi of the 2nd order are formed. The smallest are bronchi of the 15th order.

   Small bronchi branch out, forming 16-18 thin respiratory bronchioles. Alveolar passages depart from each of them, ending in thin-walled vesicles - alveoli.

   bronchial function- to ensure the conduction of air from the trachea to the alveoli and vice versa.

   The structure of the bronchi.

   1. Cartilaginous base of the bronchi
      • large bronchi outside the lung are made up of cartilage rings
      • large bronchi inside the lung - cartilaginous connections appear between the cartilaginous half-rings. Thus, a lattice structure of the bronchi is provided.
      • small bronchi - cartilages look like plates, the smaller the bronchus, the thinner the plates
      • the terminal small bronchi do not have cartilage. Their walls contain only elastic fibers and smooth muscles.
   2. The muscular layer of the bronchi- smooth muscles are arranged circularly. They provide narrowing and expansion of the lumen of the bronchi. At the branching of the bronchi there are special bundles of muscles that can completely block the entrance to the bronchus and cause its obstruction.
   3. ciliated epithelium, lining the lumen of the bronchi, performs a protective function - protects against infectionstransmitted by airborne droplets. Small villi carry bacteria and small dust particles from distant bronchi to larger bronchi. From there they are expelled by coughing.
   4. lung glands
      • unicellular glands that secrete mucus
      • small lymph nodes associated with larger lymph nodes in the mediastinum and trachea.
2. Alveolus - vesicle, in the lungs, braided with a network of blood capillaries. The lungs contain more than 700 million alveoli. This structure allows you to increase the surface in which gas exchange occurs. Atmospheric air enters the bubble through the bronchi. Through the thinnest wall, oxygen is absorbed into the blood, and carbon dioxide, which is excreted during exhalation, enters the alveoli.

   The area around the bronchiole is called the acinus. It resembles a bunch of grapes and consists of branches of the bronchioles, alveolar passages and the alveoli themselves.

3. Blood vessels. Blood enters the lungs from the right ventricle. It contains little oxygen and a lot of carbon dioxide. In the capillaries of the alveoli, the blood is enriched with oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. After that, it is collected in the veins and enters the left atrium.

Causes of emphysema

1. Violation of elasticity and strength of lung tissues:
   • Congenital deficiency of α-1 antitrypsin. In people with this anomaly, proteolytic enzymes (whose function is to destroy bacteria) break down the walls of the alveoli. Whereas normally α-1 antitrypsin neutralizes these enzymes in a few tenths of a second after their release.
   • Congenital defects in the structure of the lung tissue. Due to the structural features of the bronchioles, they collapse, and the pressure in the alveoli increases.
   • Inhalation of polluted air: smog, tobacco smoke, coal dust, toxic substances. Cadmium, oxides of nitrogen and sulfur emitted by thermal stations and transport are recognized as the most dangerous in this regard. Their smallest particles penetrate the bronchioles, deposited on their walls. They damage the ciliated epithelium and vessels that feed the alveoli and also activate special cells called alveolar macrophages.

     They contribute to an increase in the level of neutrophil elastase, a proteolytic enzyme that destroys the walls of the alveoli.

   • Hormonal imbalance. Violation of the ratio between androgens and estrogens disrupts the ability of the smooth muscles of the bronchioles to contract. This leads to stretching of the bronchioles and the formation of cavities without destroying the alveoli.
   • Respiratory tract infections: chronic bronchitis, pneumonia. Immune cells macrophages and lymphocytes reveal proteolytic activity: they produce enzymes that dissolve bacteria and the protein that makes up the walls of the alveoli.

     In addition, sputum clots in the bronchi let air into the alveoli, but do not release it in the opposite direction.

     This leads to overflow and overstretching of the alveolar sacs.

   • Age changes associated with poor circulation. In addition, older people are more sensitive to toxic substances in the air. With bronchitis and pneumonia, lung tissue is worse restored.
2. Increased pressure in the lungs.
   • Chronic obstructive bronchitis. The patency of the small bronchi is impaired. When you exhale, air remains in them. With a new breath, a new portion of air enters, which leads to overstretching of the bronchioles and alveoli. Over time, violations occur in their walls, leading to the formation of cavities.
   • Professional hazards. Glassblowers, wind musicians. A feature of these professions is an increase in air pressure in the lungs. Smooth muscles in the bronchi gradually weaken, and blood circulation in their walls is disturbed. When exhaling, all the air is not expelled, a new portion is added to it. A vicious circle develops, leading to the appearance of cavities.
   • Blockage of the lumen of the bronchus foreign body leads to the fact that the air remaining in the segment of the lung cannot come out. An acute form of emphysema develops.
   Scientists have not been able to establish the exact cause of the development of emphysema. They believe that the appearance of the disease is associated with a combination of several factors that simultaneously affect the body.

1. Stretching of the bronchioles and alveoli - their size doubles.
2. Smooth muscles are stretched, and the walls of blood vessels become thinner. The capillaries become empty and nutrition in the acinus is disturbed.
3. Elastic fibers degenerate. In this case, the walls between the alveoli are destroyed and cavities are formed.
4. The area in which gas exchange between air and blood is reduced. The body is deficient in oxygen.
5. Expanded areas squeeze healthy lung tissue, which further disrupts the ventilation function of the lungs. Shortness of breath and other symptoms of emphysema appear.
6. To compensate and improve the respiratory function of the lungs, the respiratory muscles are actively involved.
7. The load on the pulmonary circulation increases - the vessels of the lungs overflow with blood. This causes disturbances in the work of the right heart.

Types of emphysema

By the nature of the flow:

• Acute. It develops during an attack of bronchial asthma, a foreign object entering the bronchi, a sharp physical load. Accompanied by overstretching of the alveoli and swelling of the lung. This is a reversible condition, but requires urgent medical attention.
• Chronic. Develops gradually. At an early stage, the changes are reversible. But without treatment, the disease progresses and can lead to disability.

• Primary emphysema. An independent disease that develops in connection with the congenital characteristics of the organism. It can even be diagnosed in infants. It progresses rapidly and is more difficult to treat.
• Secondary emphysema. The disease occurs against the background of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The onset often goes unnoticed, the symptoms increase gradually, leading to a decrease in working capacity. Without treatment, large cavities appear that can occupy an entire lobe of the lung.

• diffuse form. Lung tissue is evenly affected. Alveoli are destroyed throughout the lung tissue. In severe cases, a lung transplant may be required.
• focal form. Changes occur around tuberculous foci, scars, in places to which a clogged bronchus approaches. The manifestations of the disease are less pronounced.

• Panacinar emphysema(vesicular, hypertrophic). All acini in the lobe of the lung or the whole lung are damaged and swollen. Between them there is no healthy tissue. The connective tissue in the lung does not grow. In most cases, there are no signs of inflammation, but there are manifestations of respiratory failure. Formed in patients with severe emphysema.
• Centrilobular emphysema. The defeat of individual alveoli in the central part of the acinus. The lumen of the bronchioles and alveoli expands, this is accompanied by inflammation and mucus secretion. Fibrous tissue develops on the walls of damaged acini. Between the altered areas, the parenchyma (tissue) of the lungs remains intact and performs its function.
• Periacinar(distal, perilobular, paraseptal) - damage to the extreme sections of the acinus near the pleura. This form develops with tuberculosis and can lead to pneumothorax - a rupture of the affected area of ​​the lung.
• Perirubtsovaya- develops around scars and foci of fibrosis in the lungs. The symptoms of the disease are usually mild.
• bullous(bubble) shape. In place of the destroyed alveoli, bubbles form, ranging in size from 0.5 to 20 cm or more. They can be located near the pleura or throughout the lung tissue, mainly in the upper lobes. Bullae may become infected, compress surrounding tissue, or rupture.
• Interstitial(subcutaneous) - characterized by the appearance of air bubbles under the skin. The alveoli rupture, and air bubbles rise through the lymphatic and tissue cracks under the skin of the neck and head. Bubbles can remain in the lungs, and when they break, spontaneous pneumothorax occurs.

• Compensatory- develops after the removal of one lobe of the lung. When healthy areas swell, trying to take the vacant space. Enlarged alveoli are surrounded by healthy capillaries, and there is no inflammation in the bronchi. The respiratory function of the lungs does not improve.
• senile- caused by age-related changes in the vessels of the lungs and the destruction of elastic fibers in the wall of the alveoli.
• Lobarnaya- occurs in newborns, more often boys. Its appearance is associated with obstruction of one of the bronchi.

Symptoms of emphysema

Diagnosis of emphysema

Examination by a doctor

Instrumental methods for diagnosing lung emphysema

1. Radiography- a study of the condition of the lungs with the help of x-rays, as a result of which an image of the internal organs is obtained on a film (paper). An overview picture of the chest is made in a direct projection. This means that the patient is facing the machine during the exposure. An overview picture allows you to identify pathological changes in the respiratory system and the degree of their spread. If the picture shows signs of illness, then additional studies are prescribed: MRI, CT, spirometry, peak flowmetry.

   Indications:

   • Once a year as part of a preventive examination
   • prolonged cough
   • dyspnea
   • wheezing, pleural friction noise
   • weakening of breathing
   • pneumothorax
   • suspicion of emphysema, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis
   Contraindications:
   • period of breastfeeding
   Symptoms of emphysema:
   • the lungs are enlarged, they compress the mediastinum and find each other
   • affected areas of the lung look overly transparent
   • expansion of the intercostal spaces with the active work of the muscles
   • the lower edge of the lungs is lowered
   • low stop aperture
   • reduction in the number of blood vessels
   • bullae and foci of tissue airing
2. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lungs- a study of the lungs, based on the resonant absorption of radio waves by hydrogen atoms in cells, and sensitive equipment captures these changes. MRI of the lungs provides information about the condition of the large bronchi of the vessels, lymphoid tissue, the presence of fluid and focal formations in the lungs. Allows you to get slices with a thickness of 10 mm and examine them from different positions. To study the upper parts of the lungs and areas around the spine, a contrast agent is injected intravenously - a preparation of gadolinium.

   The disadvantage is that air interferes with accurate visualization of small bronchi and alveoli, especially in the periphery of the lungs. Therefore, the cellular structure of the alveoli and the degree of destruction of the walls are not clearly visible.

   The procedure lasts 30-40 minutes. During this time, the patient must lie motionless in the tunnel of the magnetic tomograph. MRI is not associated with radiation, so the study is allowed for pregnant and lactating women.

   Indications:

   • there are symptoms of the disease, but no changes can be detected on the x-ray
   • tumors, cysts
   • suspicion of tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, in which small focal changes are formed
   • enlargement of intrathoracic lymph nodes
   • anomalies in the development of the bronchi, lungs and their vessels
   Contraindications:
   • the presence of a pacemaker
   • metal implants, staples, fragments
   • mental illness that does not allow you to lie still for a long time
   • patient weight over 150 kg
   Emphysema symptoms:
   • damage to the alveolar capillaries at the site of destruction of the lung tissue
   • circulatory disorders in small pulmonary vessels
   • signs of compression of healthy tissue by enlarged areas of the lung
   • increase in pleural fluid volume
   • an increase in the size of the affected lungs
   • cavities - bullae of different sizes
   • low stop aperture
3. Computed tomography (CT) of the lungs allow you to get a layered image of the structure of the lungs. CT is based on the absorption and reflection of X-rays by tissues. Based on the received data, the computer makes a layered image with a thickness of 1mm-1cm. The study is informative in the early stages of the disease. With the introduction of a contrast agent, CT provides more complete information about the state of the vessels of the lungs.

   During a CT scan of the lungs, the x-ray emitter rotates around a patient lying still. Scanning takes about 30 seconds. The doctor will ask you to hold your breath several times. The whole procedure takes no more than 20 minutes. With the help of computer processing, X-ray images obtained from different points are summarized into a layered image.

   Flaw- Significant radiation exposure.

   Indications:

   • in the presence of symptoms, no changes were detected on the x-ray, or they need to be clarified
   • diseases with the formation of foci or with diffuse lesions of the lung parenchyma
   • chronic bronchitis, emphysema
   • before bronchoscopy and lung biopsy
   • deciding on an operation
   Contraindications:
   • allergy to the contrast agent
   • critical condition of the patient
   • severe diabetes mellitus
   • kidney failure
   • pregnancy
   • patient weight exceeding the capacity of the device
   Emphysema symptoms:
   • an increase in the optical density of the lung up to -860-940 HU - these are airborne areas of the lung
   • expansion of the roots of the lungs - large vessels entering the lung
   • enlarged cells are noticeable - areas of fusion of the alveoli
   • reveals the size and location of the bullae
4. Lung scintigraphy - injection of labeled radioactive isotopes into the lungs, followed by a series of images with a rotating gamma camera. Technetium preparations - 99 M are administered intravenously or in the form of an aerosol.

   The patient is placed on a table around which the probe rotates.

   Indications:

   • early diagnosis of vascular changes in emphysema
   • monitoring the effectiveness of treatment
   • assessment of the condition of the lungs before surgery
   • suspected lung cancer
   Contraindications:
   • pregnancy
   Emphysema symptoms:
   • compression of lung tissue
   • impaired blood flow in small capillaries


5. Spirometry - functional study of the lungs, the study of the volume of external respiration. The procedure is carried out using a spirometer device that records the amount of inhaled and exhaled air.

   The patient takes a mouthpiece connected to a breathing tube with a sensor in his mouth. A clamp is put on the nose, which blocks nasal breathing. The specialist tells you which breathing tests to perform. And the electronic device converts the sensor readings into digital data.

   Indications:

   • respiratory failure
   • chronic cough
   • occupational hazards (coal dust, paint, asbestos)
   • smoking experience over 25 years
   • lung diseases (bronchial asthma, pneumosclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
   Contraindications:
   • tuberculosis
   • pneumothorax
   • hemoptysis
   • recent heart attack, stroke, abdominal or chest surgery
   Emphysema symptoms:
   • increase in total lung capacity
   • increase in residual volume
   • decreased lung capacity
   • decrease in maximum ventilation
   • increased expiratory airway resistance
   • decrease in speed indicators
   • decrease in lung tissue extensibility
   With emphysema, these indicators are reduced by 20-30%
6. Peak flowmetry - measurement of maximum expiratory flow to determine bronchial obstruction.

   It is determined using a device - a peak flow meter. The patient needs to tightly clasp the mouthpiece with his lips and exhale as quickly and forcefully as possible through the mouth. The procedure is repeated 3 times with an interval of 1-2 minutes.

   It is desirable to carry out peak flowmetry in the morning and in the evening at the same time before taking medications.

   The disadvantage is that the study cannot confirm the diagnosis of emphysema. The expiratory rate decreases not only in emphysema, but also in bronchial asthma, pre-asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

   Indications:

   • any disease accompanied by bronchial obstruction
   • evaluation of treatment outcomes
   Contraindications does not exist.

   Emphysema symptoms:

   • decrease in expiratory flow by 20%
7. Determination of the gas composition of the blood - a study of arterial blood during which the pressure in the blood of oxygen and carbon dioxide and their percentage, the acid-base balance of the blood are determined. The results show how effectively the blood in the lungs is cleared of carbon dioxide and enriched with oxygen. For research, a puncture of the ulnar artery is usually done. A blood sample is taken into a heparin syringe, placed on ice, and sent to the laboratory.

   Indications:

   • cyanosis and other signs of oxygen starvation
   • respiratory disorders in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema
   Symptoms:
   • oxygen tension in arterial blood is below 60-80 mm Hg. st
   • the percentage of oxygen in the blood is less than 15%
   • an increase in the tension of carbon dioxide in arterial blood over 50 mm Hg. st
8. General blood analysis - a study that includes counting blood cells and studying their characteristics. For analysis, blood is taken from a finger or from a vein.

   Indications- any disease.

   Contraindications does not exist.

   Deviations with emphysema:

   • increased number of erythrocytes over 5 10 12 /l
   • increased hemoglobin level over 175 g/l
   • increase in hematocrit over 47%
   • reduced erythrocyte sedimentation rate 0 mm/h
   • increased blood viscosity: in men over 5 cP in women over 5.5 cP

Emphysema treatment

• improving the quality of life of patients - elimination of shortness of breath and weakness
• prevention of heart and respiratory failure
• slowing the progression of the disease

• complete cessation of smoking
• exercise to improve ventilation
• taking medicines that improve the condition of the respiratory tract
• treatment of the pathology that caused the development of emphysema

Treatment of emphysema with medicines

Therapeutic measures for emphysema

1. transcutaneous electrical stimulation diaphragm and intercostal muscles. Electrical stimulation with pulsed currents with a frequency of 5 to 150 Hz is aimed at facilitating exhalation. This improves the energy supply of muscles, blood and lymph circulation. In this way, fatigue of the respiratory muscles, followed by respiratory failure, is avoided. During the procedure, painless muscle contractions occur. The current strength is dosed individually. The number of procedures is 10-15 per course.
2. Oxygen inhalations. Inhalation is carried out for a long time for 18 hours a day. In this case, oxygen is supplied to the mask at a rate of 2-5 liters per minute. In severe respiratory failure, helium-oxygen mixtures are used for inhalation.
3. Breathing exercises- training of the respiratory muscles, aimed at strengthening and coordinating the muscles during breathing. All exercises are repeated 4 times a day for 15 minutes.
   • Exhale with resistance. Slowly exhale through a cocktail straw into a glass filled with water. Repeat 15-20 times.
   • Diaphragmatic breathing. At the expense of 1-2-3, take a strong deep breath, drawing in the stomach. At the expense of 4, exhale - inflating the stomach. Then tighten your abdominal muscles and cough deafly. This exercise helps to expel mucus.
   • Lying down. Lying on your back, bend your legs and clasp your knees with your hands. As you inhale, take in full lungs of air. As you exhale, stick out your stomach (diaphragmatic exhalation). Straighten your legs. Tighten the press and cough.

When is surgery needed for emphysema?

Indications to surgery for emphysema:

• shortness of breath leading to disability
• bullae occupying more than 1/3 of the chest
• complications of emphysema - hemoptysis, cancer, infection, pneumothorax
• multiple bullae
• permanent hospitalizations
• diagnosis of severe emphysema

• inflammatory process - bronchitis, pneumonia
• asthma
• exhaustion
• severe deformity of the chest
• age over 70

Types of operations for emphysema

1. lung transplant and its variants: transplantation of the lungs together with the heart transplantation of a lobe of the lung. Transplantation is carried out with a volumetric diffuse lesion or multiple large bullae. The goal is to replace the affected lung with a healthy donor organ. However, the waiting list for transplantation is usually too long and problems with organ rejection can occur. Therefore, such operations are resorted to only as a last resort.


2. Decrease in lung volume. The surgeon removes the most damaged areas, approximately 20-25% of the lung. At the same time, the work of the remaining part of the lung and respiratory muscles improves. The lung is not compressed, its ventilation is restored. The operation is carried out in one of three ways.

Opening of the chest. The doctor removes the affected lobe and applies stitches to seal the lung. Then he puts a seam on the chest.

3. Minimally invasive technique (thoracoscopy) under video control. Between the ribs make 3 small incisions. A mini video camera is inserted into one, and surgical instruments into the others. The affected area is removed through these incisions.
4. Bronchoscopy. A bronchoscope with surgical equipment is inserted through the mouth. The damaged area is removed through the lumen of the bronchus. Such an operation is possible only when the affected area is located close to the large bronchi.

Is hospitalization required to treat emphysema?

Indications for hospitalization:

• a sharp increase in symptoms (shortness of breath at rest, severe weakness)
• the appearance of new signs of the disease (cyanosis, hemoptysis)
• ineffectiveness of the prescribed treatment (symptoms do not decrease, peak flow measurements worsen)
• severe comorbidities
• newly developed arrhythmias
• difficulty in establishing a diagnosis;

Nutrition for emphysema (diet).

Basic dietary guidelines for emphysema

1. Increasing calories up to 3500 kcal. Meals 4-6 times a day in small portions.
2. Proteins up to 120 g per day. More than half of them must be of animal origin: animal and poultry meat, liver, sausages, fish of all varieties and seafood, eggs, dairy products. Meat in any culinary treatment, excluding excessive frying.
All complications of emphysema are life-threatening. Therefore, if any new symptoms appear, urgent medical attention should be sought.

• Pneumothorax. Rupture of the pleura surrounding the lung. In this case, air enters the pleural cavity. The lung collapses and becomes unable to expand. Around it, fluid accumulates in the pleural cavity, which must be removed. There is severe pain in the chest, aggravated by inspiration, panic fear, palpitations, the patient takes a forced position. Treatment must begin immediately. If the lung does not heal in 4-5 days, surgery will be needed.
• infectious complications. Decreased local immunity increases the sensitivity of the lungs to bacterial infections. Severe bronchitis and pneumonia often develop, which become chronic. Symptoms: cough with purulent sputum, fever, weakness.
• Right ventricular heart failure. The disappearance of small capillaries leads to an increase in blood pressure in the vessels of the lungs - pulmonary hypertension. The load on the right parts of the heart increases, which are overstretched and worn out. Heart failure is the leading cause of death in patients with emphysema. Therefore, at the first signs of its development (swelling of the neck veins, pain in the heart and liver, swelling), it is necessary to call an ambulance.

• complete cessation of smoking
• prevention of frequent infections
• clean air, no smog
• good nutrition
• good sensitivity to medical treatment with bronchodilators.

Lung diseases develop against the background of the penetration of pathogenic microbes into the body, often the cause is smoking and alcoholism, poor ecology, and harmful production conditions. Most diseases have a pronounced clinical picture, require immediate treatment, otherwise irreversible processes begin to occur in the tissues, which is fraught with serious complications and death.

Lung disease requires immediate treatment

Classification and list of lung diseases

Lung diseases are classified depending on the localization of the inflammatory, destructive process - pathologists can affect blood vessels, tissues, spread to all respiratory organs. Restrictive diseases are called diseases in which it is difficult for a person to take a full breath, obstructive - a full exhalation.

According to the degree of damage, pulmonary diseases are local and diffuse, all respiratory diseases have an acute and chronic form, pulmonological pathologies are divided into congenital and acquired.

General signs of bronchopulmonary diseases:

1. Shortness of breath occurs not only during physical exertion, but also at rest, against the background of stress, a similar symptom also occurs with heart disease.
2. Cough is the main symptom of pathologies of the respiratory tract, it can be dry or wet, barking, paroxysmal, there is often a lot of mucus in the sputum, blotches of pus or blood.
3. Feeling of heaviness in the chest, pain when inhaling or exhaling.
4. Whistles, wheezing when breathing.
5. Fever, weakness, general malaise, loss of appetite.

Most of the problems associated with the respiratory organs are combined diseases, several parts of the respiratory organs are affected at once, which greatly complicates diagnosis and treatment.

A feeling of heaviness in the chest indicates lung disease

Pathologies that affect the respiratory tract

These diseases have a pronounced clinical picture and are difficult to treat.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive disease in which structural changes occur in the vessels and tissues of the organ. Most often diagnosed in men after 40 years of age, heavy smokers, pathology can cause disability or death. The ICD-10 code is J44.

Healthy lungs and lungs with COPD

Symptoms:

• chronic wet cough with a lot of sputum;
• severe shortness of breath;
• when exhaling, the volume of air decreases;
• in the later stages, cor pulmonale, acute respiratory failure develops.

Refers to varieties of COPD, often develops in women against the background of hormonal imbalance. ICD-10 code - J43.9.

Emphysema most often develops in women

Symptoms:

• cyanosis - the nail plates, the tip of the nose and earlobes acquire a blue tint;
• shortness of breath with difficult exhalation;
• noticeable tension in the muscles of the diaphragm when inhaling;
• swelling of the veins in the neck;
• weight loss;
• pain in the right hypochondrium, which occurs when the liver is enlarged.

Feature - during a cough, a person's face becomes pink, during an attack, a small amount of mucus is released. As the disease develops, the appearance of the patient changes - the neck becomes shorter, the supraclavicular fossae protrude strongly, the chest is rounded, and the stomach sags.

Asphyxia

Pathology occurs against the background of damage to the respiratory system, chest injuries, accompanied by increasing suffocation. The ICD-10 code is T71.

Symptoms:

• at the initial stage - rapid shallow breathing, increased blood pressure, palpitations, panic, dizziness;
• then the respiratory rate decreases, the exhalation becomes deep, the pressure decreases;
• Gradually, arterial indicators decrease to critical levels, breathing is weak, often disappears, a person loses consciousness, may fall into a coma, pulmonary and cerebral edema develops.

Accumulation of blood, sputum, vomit in the respiratory tract, suffocation, an attack of allergies or asthma, and a burn of the larynx can provoke an attack of suffocation.

A viral, fungal, bacterial disease often becomes chronic, especially in children, pregnant women, and the elderly. The ICD-10 code is J20.

Symptoms:

• unproductive cough - appears at the initial stage of the development of the disease;
• wet cough - a sign of the second stage of the development of the disease, the mucus is transparent or yellow-green in color;
• an increase in temperature to 38 or more degrees;
• increased sweating, weakness;
• shortness of breath, wheezing.

Bronchitis often becomes chronic

Can provoke the development of the disease:

• inhalation of dirty, cold, damp air;
• flu;
• cocci;
• smoking;
• avitaminosis;
• hypothermia.

A rare systemic disease that affects various organs, often affecting the lungs and bronchi, is diagnosed in people under 40 years old, more often in women. It is characterized by a collection of inflammatory cells called granulomas. The ICD-10 code is D86.

In sarcoidosis, an accumulation of inflammatory cells occurs

Symptoms:

• severe fatigue immediately after waking up, lethargy;
• loss of appetite, sudden weight loss;
• temperature increase to subfebrile marks;
• unproductive cough;
• pain in muscles and joints;
• dyspnea.

The exact causes of the development of the disease have not yet been identified, many doctors believe that granulomas are formed under the influence of helminths, bacteria, pollen, and fungi.

Diseases in which the alveoli are damaged

Alveoli are small sacs in the lungs that are responsible for gas exchange in the body.

Inflammation of the lungs is one of the most common pathologies of the respiratory organs, often developing as a complication of influenza, bronchitis. ICD-10 code - J12-J18.

Pneumonia is the most common lung disease

Symptoms of pathology depend on its type, but there are common signs that occur at the initial stage of the development of the disease:

• fever, chills, fever, runny nose;
• a strong cough - at the initial stage, dry and obsessive, then it becomes wet, green-yellow sputum is released with impurities of pus;
• dyspnea;
• weakness;
• chest pain when taking a deep breath;
• cephalgia.

There are many reasons for the development of infectious pneumonia - gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, mycoplasma, viruses, fungi of the genus Candida can provoke the development of the disease. The non-infectious form of the disease develops with the inhalation of toxic substances, burns of the respiratory tract, blows and bruises of the chest, against the background of radiation therapy and allergies.

Tuberculosis

A deadly disease in which the lung tissue is completely destroyed, the open form is transmitted by airborne droplets, you can also become infected by drinking raw milk, the causative agent of the disease is a tuberculosis bacillus. ICD-10 code - A15-A19.

Tuberculosis is a very dangerous disease.

Signs:

• cough with phlegm that lasts more than three weeks;
• the presence of blood in the mucus;
• prolonged increase in temperature to subfebrile marks;
• chest pain;
• sweating at night;
• weakness, weight loss.

Tuberculosis is often diagnosed in people with weakened immune systems; protein deficiency, diabetes, pregnancy, and alcohol abuse can provoke the development of the disease.

The disease develops when interstitial fluid penetrates into the lungs from the blood vessels, accompanied by inflammation and swelling of the larynx. The ICD-10 code is J81.

Fluid builds up in lungs

Causes of accumulation of fluid in the lungs:

• acute heart failure;
• pregnancy;
• cirrhosis;
• starvation;
• infectious diseases;
• intense physical activity, climbing to great heights;
• allergy;
• injuries of the sternum, the presence of a foreign body in the lungs;
• edema can be provoked by the rapid introduction of a large amount of saline, blood substitutes.

At the initial stage, shortness of breath, dry cough, increased sweating, and an increased heart rate appear. As the disease progresses, pink frothy sputum begins to be coughed up, breathing becomes wheezing, the veins in the neck swell, the extremities become cold, the person suffers from suffocation, loses consciousness.

Acute respiratory syndrome is a rare, but very dangerous disease, practically untreatable, a person is connected to a ventilator.

Carcinoma is a complex disease, in the last stages of development it is considered incurable. The main danger of the disease is that it is asymptomatic in the early stages of development, so people go to the doctor already with advanced forms of cancer, when there is complete or partial drying out of the lung, tissue decomposition. ICD-10 code - C33-C34.

Lung cancer often has no symptoms

Symptoms:

• cough - in the sputum there are blood clots, pus, mucus;
• dyspnea;
• chest pain;
• varicose veins in the upper chest, jugular vein;
• swelling of the face, neck, legs;
• cyanosis;
• frequent attacks of arrhythmia;
• sudden weight loss;
• fatigue;
• unexplained fever.

Diseases that affect the pleura and chest

The pleura is the outer shell of the lungs, it looks like a small bag, some serious diseases develop when it is damaged, often the organ simply collapses, the person cannot breathe.

The inflammatory process occurs against the background of injuries or penetration into the respiratory organs of pathogenic microorganisms. The disease is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough of moderate intensity. ICD-10 code - R09.1, J90.

With pleurisy, the lungs are affected by harmful microorganisms

Risk factors for the development of pleurisy are diabetes, alcoholism, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic diseases of the digestive system, in particular, bending of the colon.

People who work for a long time in chemical plants often develop an occupational lung disease called silicosis in mines. The disease progresses slowly, in the last stages there is a strong fever, persistent cough, and breathing problems.

Air enters the pleural region, which can cause collapse, and immediate medical attention is required. The ICD-10 code is J93.

Pneumothorax requires prompt intervention

Symptoms:

• frequent shallow breathing;
• cold clammy sweat;
• bouts of unproductive coughing;
• the skin takes on a blue tint;
• heart rate increases, pressure decreases;
• fear of death.

Spontaneous pneumothorax is diagnosed in tall men, smokers, with a sharp pressure drop. The secondary form of the disease develops with prolonged respiratory diseases, cancer, against the background of injuries of the connective tissue of the lungs, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma.

Pulmonary hypertension - a specific syndrome of obstructive bronchitis, fibrosis, develops more often in elderly people, characterized by increased pressure in the vessels that feed the respiratory system.

Purulent diseases

Infections affect a significant part of the lungs, which causes the development of severe complications.

An inflammatory process in which a cavity with purulent contents forms in the lungs, the disease is difficult to diagnose. The ICD-10 code is J85.

Abscess - purulent formation in the lungs

The reasons:

• insufficient oral hygiene;
• alcohol, drug addiction;
• epilepsy;
• pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, carcinoma;
• reflux disease;
• long-term use of hormonal and anticancer drugs;
• diabetes, cardiovascular disease;
• chest injury.

In the acute form of an abscess, the clinical picture manifests itself brightly - intense pain in the chest, most often on the one hand, prolonged bouts of wet coughing, blood and mucus are present in the sputum. With the transition of the disease to the chronic stage, exhaustion, weakness, and chronic fatigue occur.

A fatal disease - against the background of a putrefactive process, lung tissue decays, the process quickly spreads throughout the body, pathology is more often diagnosed in men. The ICD-10 code is J85.

Gangrene of the lung - decomposition of lung tissue

Symptoms:

• the disease develops rapidly, there is a rapid deterioration in well-being;
• chest pain when taking a deep breath;
• a sharp increase in temperature to critical levels;
• a strong cough with a lot of frothy sputum - the discharge has a fetid odor, they contain brown streaks of blood and pus;
• suffocation;
• increased sweating;
• increased heart rate;
• the skin becomes pale.

hereditary diseases

Diseases of the respiratory system are often inherited, they are diagnosed in children immediately after birth, or during the first three years of life.

List of hereditary diseases:

1. Bronchial asthma - develops against the background of neurological pathologies, allergies. Accompanied by frequent severe attacks, in which it is impossible to fully inhale, shortness of breath.
2. Cystic fibrosis - the disease is accompanied by an excessive accumulation of mucus in the lungs, affects the glands of the endocrine system, negatively affects the work of many internal organs. Against its background, bronchiectasis develops, which is characterized by a constant cough with the release of thick purulent sputum, shortness of breath and wheezing.
3. Primary dyskinesia - congenital purulent bronchitis.

Many malformations of the lungs can be seen during ultrasound during pregnancy, and intrauterine treatment can be performed.

Bronchial asthma is inherited

Which doctor should I contact?

If symptoms of a pulmonary disease appear, it is necessary to visit a therapist or pediatrician. After listening, preliminary diagnosis, the doctor will give a referral to a pulmonologist. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult an oncologist, a surgeon.

The doctor can make a primary diagnosis after an external examination, during which palpation, percussion are performed, and the sounds of the respiratory organs are listened to with a stethoscope. To recognize the true cause of the development of the disease, it is necessary to conduct laboratory and instrumental studies.

Basic diagnostic methods:

• general analysis of blood and urine;
• sputum examination to detect hidden impurities, pathogenic microorganisms;
• immunological research;
• ECG - allows you to determine how a lung disease affects the functioning of the heart;
• bronchoscopy;
• chest x-ray;
• fluorography;
• CT, MRI - allows you to see changes in the structure of tissues;
• spirometry - using a special apparatus, the volume of inhaled and exhaled air, the rate of inhalation are measured;
• probing - the method is necessary for the study of respiratory mechanics;

Treatment of lung diseases

Based on the diagnostic results obtained, the specialist draws up a treatment regimen, but in any case, an integrated approach is used in therapy, which is aimed at eliminating the causes and symptoms of the disease. Most often, doctors prescribe drugs in the form of tablets, suspensions and syrups, for severe patients, drugs are administered by injection.

Groups of drugs:

• antibiotics of the penicillin, macrolide, cephalosporin group - Cefotaxime, Azithromycin, Ampicillin;
• antiviral drugs - Remantadine, Isoprinosine;
• antifungal agents - Nizoral, Amphoglucamine;
• anti-inflammatory drugs - Indomethacin, Ketorolac;
• medicines to eliminate dry cough - Glauvent;
• mucolytics - Glyciram, Bronholitin, Carbocysteine ​​is considered the most effective for the treatment of childhood diseases;
To speed up the healing process, it is necessary to include foods high in ascorbic acid, vitamin E, B1, B2 in the diet.

Possible Complications

Without proper treatment, respiratory pathologies become chronic, which is fraught with constant relapses at the slightest hypothermia.

What are the dangers of lung diseases:

• asphyxia;
• against the background of a narrowing of the lumen of the respiratory tract, hypoxia develops, all internal organs suffer from a lack of oxygen, which negatively affects their work;
• an acute asthma attack can be fatal;
• develop serious heart disease.

Acute asthma attacks are deadly

Pneumonia ranks second among the diseases that end in death - this is due to the fact that most people ignore the symptoms of the disease. At the initial stage, the disease can be easily cured in 2-3 weeks.

Prevention of pulmonary diseases

To reduce the risk of developing respiratory diseases and their complications, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, lead a healthy lifestyle, and when the first warning signs appear, you should consult a specialist.

How to avoid problems with the lungs and bronchi:

• give up bad habits;
• avoid hypothermia;
• spend more time outdoors
• maintain optimal indicators of temperature and humidity in the room, regularly do wet cleaning;
• play sports, take a contrast shower, get enough sleep, avoid stress;
• eat healthy and wholesome food, observe the drinking regimen;
• every year to undergo an examination, do an x-ray of the lungs or fluorography.

Walking outdoors is good for your health

The breath of sea and coniferous air has a beneficial effect on the organs, so every year it is necessary to relax in the forest or on the coast of the sea. During epidemics of colds, take antiviral drugs for prevention, avoid crowded places, limit contact with sick people.

Lung diseases can cause death, timely diagnosis, regular preventive examination will help to avoid the disease, or start treatment at the initial stage of pathology development.

The lungs are a vital organ, without their work it is impossible to supply all parts of the body with oxygen. Any pathological process affects the functionality of the lung and bronchial tissue, preventing the respiratory organs from working properly. And the lack of oxygen in other organs can lead to their disease. Therefore, it is so important to treat diseases of the lungs and bronchi already at the first manifestations of the disease, and to avoid the causes that cause them.

Causes of diseases in the lungs

There are several factors that can provoke an inflammatory process in the lungs:

• Bad habits, especially smoking.
• Bad ecology. Inhaled air contains exhaust gases, harmful emissions from factories and factories, evaporation from building materials and household chemicals.

Types of lung diseases

Each of the parts of the lower respiratory tract can be affected by the pathological process. Lung diseases can be congenital, acquired, chronic or acute, localized or diffuse. Depending on the damage to a certain part of the lower respiratory system, lung diseases can be grouped into the following groups:

• associated with damage to the respiratory tract;
• affecting the alveoli;
• associated with damage to the pleura;
• affecting the chest.

The severity of the course of the disease, its prognosis and the necessary treatment depend on which part of the respiratory system is affected. Most often, the disease of the respiratory tract captures all the tissues of the lungs and bronchi.

Lung pathologies affecting the airways

In this case, the pathological process affects the trachea and the bronchi below it, causing respiratory failure. The main diseases of these organs include: bronchial asthma, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, emphysema.

The table shows lung diseases with damage to the respiratory tract.

Lung disease affecting the alveoli

Alveoli - the smallest bubbles in which the process of gas exchange occurs, and venous blood turns into arterial. Therefore, the role of the alveoli in the body is difficult to overestimate. There are a little more than 300 million alveoli in each human lung, but the failure of even a small part will necessarily affect the work of the whole organism.

The most common lung diseases associated with damage to the tissues of this organ: pneumonia, tuberculosis, emphysema, cancer, pneumoconiosis, pulmonary edema.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is not as harmless as it might seem. Despite the large number of different antibiotics, almost every tenth case of the disease is still fatal. If part of the lung is affected, they speak of focal pneumonia; if an entire lobe or the entire lung is affected, we are talking about lobar pneumonia.

Causes of pneumonia: bacterial, viral and fungal infections, trauma, lung surgery, complications of other diseases, long stay in bed with severe illness.

With focal pneumonia, the symptoms are smoothed out. The temperature rises gradually and rarely rises above 39 degrees. It fluctuates throughout the day. Patients are concerned about severe weakness, sweating, shortness of breath, chest pain when inhaled, cough with mucopurulent sputum.

Typical lobar pneumonia has the following symptoms:

• a sharp increase in temperature, often accompanied by chills;
• cough, at first dry, and then with "rusty" sputum.

The patient's condition is severe, there are violations of the heart.

Treatment of pneumonia is most often carried out in a hospital. It should include antibiotics, which are prescribed in accordance with the pathogen found in the analysis of sputum. Mucolytics and bronchodilators, antipyretic, immunostimulating agents will be required. Antihistamines will be useful.

A severe lung disease caused by a mycobacterium called Koch's bacillus. May have extrapulmonary forms. Before the advent of modern anti-tuberculosis drugs, it was rarely cured. Even now, this lung disease is among the top ten diseases that most often lead to death.

Tuberculosis is transmitted through the air. A quarter of the world's population are its bacteria carriers. The bacterium begins to multiply and causes lung disease. For a long time it is almost asymptomatic. Mild weakness, lethargy, weight loss, mild cough, and mild fever are often attributed to fatigue or a cold.

A strong cough, hemoptysis, chest pain and fever to high numbers indicate that the disease has gone far, and tuberculosis will have to be treated for a long time and hard. Treatment should be comprehensive and include multicomponent anti-tuberculosis therapy, immunostimulating drugs, proper nutrition, stay in specialized sanatoriums.

Up to 18.5% of cancer patients in Russia die from this disease. Lung cancer is insidious in that at first it does not manifest itself in any way, especially if the tumor is located on the periphery of the lung tissue. The reasons for its appearance are different and not always clear: smoking, inhalation of dust, including asbestos, viruses, metastases from other organs.

The first symptom of the disease is often a chronic cough. At first it is dry, then it becomes wet. Purulent sputum may contain blood. The temperature rises, weight decreases, weakness, shortness of breath are observed, signs of intoxication of the body appear. At this stage, it is not difficult to diagnose this lung disease, since the tumor is quite large.

The prognosis of this lung disease depends on the timely treatment started. If the tumor is operable, they resort to its surgical removal. Then radiation and chemotherapy are used.

This group of diseases is associated with the professional activity of a person and is the result of long-term inhalation of dust:

• coal;
• talc;
• asbestos;
• silicates.

It starts with a dry cough and chest pains. Then pulmonary, and soon heart failure joins. The disease is irreversible, as pulmonary fibrosis develops, i.e., the lung tissue is replaced by connective tissue. The therapy is aimed at inhibiting the process, removing dust, stimulating the immune system and reducing allergic reactions.

Pulmonary edema

Signs of pulmonary edema:

• respiratory failure, expressed in severe shortness of breath even at rest, breathing is heavy, bubbling;
• a state of suffocation, it forces the patient to take a forced posture with a raised upper body;
• severe pain in the chest (pressing character);
• tachycardia, which takes on a pronounced character;
• cough with frothy sputum that has a pink color;
• clammy sweat, cyanosis, pale skin;
• confusion, possible loss of consciousness.

With the onset of pulmonary edema, the patient must be urgently taken to the hospital.

Lung disease affecting the pleura

Among them are: pleurisy, pneumothorax.

Pneumothorax is the penetration of air into the pleural cavity. The condition is fraught with collapse and requires emergency medical attention.

This is a lung disease caused by viruses, bacteria, injuries, tumors. May be a complication of syphilis, tuberculosis and pancreatitis. In 60% of pneumonia diseases, pleurisy develops, which almost always resolves spontaneously.

Initially, dry pleurisy is formed, which causes severe pain in the chest due to friction of the pleura. When fluid (exudate) appears, the pain decreases, but shortness of breath associated with squeezing the lungs appears. A reflex dry cough joins, a slight temperature, weakness, and sweating persist throughout the disease.

The treatment of the disease is carried out in a hospital, since with wet pleurisy, suction of the exudate is required by puncture. In the future, complex anti-inflammatory treatment is carried out. Pleurisy of tuberculous etiology requires special medications.

Lung pathologies affecting the chest

If you are overweight, the breathing process is difficult, which over time can cause respiratory failure. Various inflammatory diseases of the back muscles can also cause breathing difficulties.

Deformation of the chest or damage to the pulmonary vessels causes diseases of the bronchi and lungs. They eventually lead to the emergence of the so-called cor pulmonale. This pathology can occur suddenly against the background of blockage by a pulmonary artery thrombus or valvular pneumothorax. The cause of this condition can be prolonged, severe pneumonia, exudative pleurisy with a lot of fluid.

The slow formation of the cor pulmonale is facilitated by obstructive processes in the respiratory organs, increased pressure in the vessels of the lungs - pulmonary hypertension, fibrous processes in the lung tissue.

Prevention

Compliance with the correct mode of work and rest will help to avoid the risk of many diseases, including respiratory diseases. What else can be done:

• to give up smoking;
• compliance with the hygiene of the home;
• prevention of occupational hazards;
• correct and timely treatment of respiratory infections;
• treatment of chronic diseases;
• strengthening immunity, playing sports, hardening;
• planned fluorography.