Information on Lungs

Chest is the part of the body which lies between the neck and the abdomen. It contains many important organs like the heart and Lungs. The heart is the pump which circulates the blood. There are other important organs in the chest like blood vessels (arteries and veins) and the food pipe called oesophagus (gullet) among others.

Much is often talked about the heart disease. The common diseases of Lungs include Tuberculosis. Infections, Astham and Cancer Tuberculosis (T.B) of Lungs are common condition. In children it can be prevented by B.C.G. Vaccination. Recently because of the new problem of A.I.D.S. the occurrence of T.B. is increasing. Fortunately, effective treatment is now available for cure of T.B.

Lung infection is known as pneumonia and is common in all ages especially children. It can be prevented to some extent by prompt treatment of common cold and upper respiratory infections. Pneumonia is a serious disease. It can be controlled by antibiotics.

Asthma, a common chest disease, produces sudden shortness of breath and cough. There may be familial disposition and it may be triggered by dust and pollen etc., it can be effectively controlled by inhalation of certain drugs or other means. Lung cancer is another common dreadful disease. It occurs both in men and women. Active and passive smoking of cigarettes is the most important cause. Industrial smoke and vehicular emissions also contribute. It can be largely prevented by not smoking and avoiding exposure to other emissions. Cough persisting for more than 2 weeks must be suspect and X-ray of chest helps in early detection. In early stages, surgery is the best treatment.

Another dreaded disease of the chest organs is cancer of the esophagus (gullet) in the elderly people. The first symptom is difficulty in swallowing. The doctor must be consulted immediately. It can be prevented to some extent by avoiding certain types of foods, spices and alcohol.

Blood vessels (Arteries) in the chest can be the cause of diseases like ballooning (aneurysm) or blockage (obstruction). Both are serious diseases produced by atherosclerosis or degeneration of its wall in the elderly patients. These can be prevented by proper low fat diet, regular exercise, non-smoking, and proper control of high blood pressure and diabetes. It should be always borne in mind that normal lungs increase longevity.