What is lung disease?
A person with lung disease has a condition that prevents the lungs from functioning properly. Lung disease is a broad term that represents a wide variety of conditions that affect lung function. Lung disease can affect the tiny air passageways or the alveoli, where oxygen and carbon dioxide are passed between the air and the bloodstream. Some types of lung disease reduce the amount of oxygen that passes from the air, into the bloodstream. Lung disease may be caused by infection, inflammation, or injury.

What are the symptoms of lung disease?
Symptoms of lung disease depend on the underlying cause. Common symptoms of lung disease include a fever, cough, coughing up blood, and wheezing. Additional symptoms include excessive fatigue, clubbing of the nails, difficulty breathing, and shortness of breath.

How does the doctor treat lung disease?
Treatment for lung disease depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include antibiotics, bronchodilators for wheezing, and other medications.