Common Diseases
Asthma
Asthma is a long-term (chronic) disease of the lungs that has a very diverse way of presenting itself. It causes the airways to get inflamed and narrow, which makes it hard to breathe.
Gaining and maintaining control of Asthma is essential to reduce the frequency flare-ups, visits to the hospital, and prevent damage to the lungs.
The treatment for asthma involves reducing the chronic inflammation with long-term use of maintenance inhalers that have cortico-steroid in them (Such as Zenhale, Symbicort, Breo … ). You may not notice a difference immediately after taking these medications due to their slow but long duration of effect in the lungs. It is essential to take these regularly.
For Asthma attacks that require immediate relief from symptoms, a rescue inhaler (containing a short-acting bronchodilator) should be taken.
COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow. The main symptoms include shortness of breath and cough with sputum production.
Learn more about COPD including tips, activities, nutrition and more below!
IPF - Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a type of lung disease that affects the interstitium of the lung (the space between the air sacs in the lung). There are many different types of pulmonary fibrosis, with different etiologies, treatments, and prognoses. In patients with PF, the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiff, and over time may become more widespread. In some cases a cause for the PF will be suspected such as environmental exposures, medications, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma or rheumatoid arthritis.
However, in Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) the cause is uncertain or unknown and as such is termed idiopathic.