COVID-19 has brought much-needed attention to the importance of lung health.
Since the outbreak of COVID -19, there have been many studies conducted on the long-term effects of the virus on the lungs. The results of these studies are still coming in, but they have already shown that COVID -19 can have lasting effects on the lungs of those who have contracted the virus. Many are more prone to getting affected by being in the high-risk category due to various other medical conditions they have.
Various studies supported that six months after infection, COVID -19 patients still had abnormalities in their lungs. Another study found that COVID -19 patients were more likely to develop chronic lung diseases like Bronchitis, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), Sepsis, Pneumonia, Lung cancer, and Pulmonary fibrosis.
However, COVID -19 is not the only reason for respiratory illness but it is for sure a matter of concern.
Lung illness takes many forms – from common conditions like asthma and bronchitis to more serious diseases like lung cancer and pulmonary fibrosis. And while there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are treatments available that can improve the quality of life for lung illness sufferers.
This article aims to increase understanding of lung illness, its causes, symptoms, and treatments. We hope that by increasing understanding, we can also improve outcomes for those affected by this devastating condition.
How COVID has caused lung infections and respiratory problems
COVID has caused many lung complications and also that people already having some respiratory issues experience further damage to their lungs after being affected by the virus.
There has been lasting harm to the health of the lungs such as infection with pneumonia, and asthma, and further triggered the need to be hospitalized for more severe and fatal conditions such as ARDS, Sepsis, etc.
Types of lung illnesses
Bronchitis
There is serious production of sputum in the airway leading to chest congestion and excessive coughing. This cough stays with them for many months after diagnosis till the time it is completely recovered.
Pneumonia
Lungs are filled with fluid leading to inflammation and difficulty in breathing. But in Covid-19 affected patients, it can spread to both the lungs and result in more complicated issues like shortness of breath for many months, cough, and further limits on the capacity of the lungs to take in oxygen.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
It is an advanced stage of pneumonia in COVID 19 patients. With the progress of pneumonia fluid further fills the air sacs and it starts leaking from the small blood vessels present in the lungs. It leads to shortness of breath setting in with this condition of ARDS as lung failure. This is a fatal condition as a patient is unable to breathe on their own and required ventilator support.
Sepsis
It is the result of infection spreading and reaching the tissues of different organs and starts damaging the organs. Sepsis is a serious condition as the coordination among vital organs like lungs, heart, and other organs stop, further leading to organ failures one by one.
Lung Fibrosis
Pulmonary fibrosis occurs when lung tissue is damaged and these stiff and thickened tissues hinder the normal functioning of the lungs. It is a progressive condition making it difficult for a person to breathe properly. As per one study, about 44.9% of COVID survivors have been seen to develop pulmonary fibrosis.
Lung Cancer
Patients already suffering from lung cancer are at a higher risk zone of getting infected with the COVID -19 virus resulting in higher mortality and morbidity as compared to the general population. Lung cancer treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy to stop the growth of cancer cells and kill these cells.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
It is a chronic inflammatory condition that is the reason for obstructed airflow in the lungs along with cough, mucus resulting in wheezing, and difficulty in breathing. Though the cause is continuous tobacco smoking, or exposure to chemicals, dust, or fumes. But with COVID 19 infection, you are at a higher risk of getting seriously affected and sick.
Ways to reduce the chances of lung damage post covid and Living with lung illness
It was seen that the people who were vaccinated with doses of coronavirus dose experienced less damage to their respiratory system compared to the people who did not take vaccination doses of coronavirus. In both kinds of people, post-covid care for your lungs is important to ensure it does not worsen and you see improvement in the condition of your lungs. A few steps are as follows:
- Have a balanced and nutritional diet
- Keep your body well hydrated, as it helps in having healthy mucous membranes in the respiratory system.
- With proper diet and hydration, the lungs can resist further infection and tissue damage.
- Get vaccinated and get your booster dose as the body gets immunity to fight off the virus and helps in the healing process.
- Keep yourself away from unnecessary exposure to an unhealthy or polluted environment.
- Make lifestyle changes and indulge in some exercise suitable to your age, condition, and health.
- Take regular and proper medication.
- Keep visiting your doctor regularly.
Treatment options for lung illness
Lung illness is a serious condition that can be difficult to treat. There are a variety of different treatment options available to treat these lung illnesses, including surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes, and the best course of treatment will vary depending on the individual. Some common treatments for lung illness include:
Medications: There are a variety of different medications that can be used to treat lung illness. These are called anti-fibrotic agents and include bronchodilators, steroids, anticholinergics, and antibiotics. This is the basic step for any lung infection treatment.
Surgery: In some cases, lung surgery may be necessary to repair or remove part of the lung tissue that is affected by the illness. It is one of the options for lung damage treatment.
Oxygen therapy: This treatment involves using oxygen tanks or oxygen concentrators to help the person breathe. It is also called supplemental oxygen and can be taken through a prescription from the health care provider.
Pulmonary rehabilitation: This is a program that helps the person learn to breathe properly and exercise safely with the help of various exercising and breathing techniques. It is done under the supervision of the doctor and is a medical program for rehabilitation in case of lung diseases like COPD.
Lung transplant: This is the last resort option for people who have severe lung illness.
Conclusion
The lung is a complex organ that can be affected by a variety of illnesses and especially after COVID 19 virus. Understanding what types of lung illnesses there are and what treatment options are available will help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs in the future.