Your lungs help you breathe. When they become damaged, you have lung disease. There are many forms of lung disease, including cystic fibrosis, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, known as COPD.
Although most lung disease does not have a recognized source, it can be caused by exposure to asbestos or silica dust, gases, fumes, or poisons. Some medications, such as radiation therapy, can cause lung disease. Lung disease can also be caused by lung infections and connective tissue diseases, including scleroderma, systemic lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.
If lung scarring has occurred, the condition is usually irreversible. Medications may slow the progression of the disease, but you may not regain full use of your lungs. For patients with severe advanced lung disease, a transplant may be the only option.
