Lung Injuries
A lung injury occurs when an external factor or agent causes damage to the airways, or when an adverse response is triggered by an underlying cause. Lung injuries and diseases can be caused by a variety of external agents or causes, such as smoking cigarettes, vaping, exposure to toxins, inhaling fibers or particles or exposure to toxic chemicals.
Any of these causes can result in injury or disease, such as:
Silicosis
Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of silica dust. The particles enter the lungs and attach to the soft tissue. Over time, nodules form, interrupting normal lung function and causing fluid to build up.
Adenocarcinoma
A type of cancer that begins in the glands that line certain organs. Adenocarcinoma most often develops in the lungs, and can spread to other tissue in the body.
Mesothelioma
An aggressive type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium (the thin layer of tissue that covers the lungs and other organs). Mesothelioma most often develops in the lungs (pleura), but can develop in other abdominal organs (peritoneal).
Lung Cancer
An abnormal growth of cells in one or both lungs. The abnormal cells can form tumors that interfere with healthy lung tissue and function. This deprives the body of oxygen.
Any of these lung injuries can have lifelong consequences for the patient and his or her family.
At LungInjuries.org, our goal is to provide patients and families with real, useful information about these lung injuries. We understand that you may have many questions and concerns about the lung injury impacting your life. We hope to help you find answers.