What is the Treatment for Lung Disease?

Lung diseases have become one of the leading causes of death and illness worldwide. Most lung diseases cause symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, coughing, airway constriction, and a heavy or tight feeling in the chest. Lung disease can significantly affect your daily life and the ability to do normal daily activities. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent lung disease, improve your disease and quality of life.

Infections

Lung diseases such as pneumonia and tuberculosis which are caused due to infection can be treated with antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics based on your health, severity of illness and the type of infection.

Vaccination

Some lung diseases such as seasonal flu can be prevented by appropriate vaccination.

Medications

Medications which are often used by people with chronic lung problems are corticosteroids, bronchodilators, antibiotics, anticoagulants and immune suppressants. Other treatment methods used for people with lung disease are physiotherapy, chemotherapy, surfactant replacement therapy, radiotherapy, lobectomy, pneumonectomy, lung volume reduction surgery, and lung transplantation. Your doctor will prescribe medications based on your disease, health, and severity of illness.

Self-Care

People with lung disease need to practice self-care. Important self-care measures include avoiding behaviours which are known to irritate the lung and worsen lung diseases such as smoking, exposure to chemicals and irritants at work place. One should also avoid situations which can transmit germs from one person to another such as large crowded areas where air borne germs are likely and allergens which may affect breathing.

Considerations in Treatment of Lung diseases

Chronic lung problems can affect daily life and your ability to do normal daily activities. Some important measures for people with lung diseases include making the sleeping environment comfortable by using a fan, dehumidifier, or vaporiser; taking medications as recommended, regularly exercising, and eating healthy food.

A vital aspect of treatment and prevention of lung diseases is early and appropriate treatment. So if you have symptoms suggestive of lung disease, consult your doctor. Your doctor will prescribe medications based on your illness and your overall health.

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