Identification

• Progressive lung disease damages the bronchial tubes and air sacs that carry oxygen in and out of your lungs. When these structures are damaged, they become less elastic and can't expand and contract normally. If you have emphysema, the walls between the alveoli--the air sacs at the end of the tubes--become floppy, limiting airflow out of your lungs. Chronic obstructive bronchitis results in a chronic cough due to constriction and constant inflammation in the bronchial tubes. When this occurs, the lungs start to produce an excessive amount of mucus, making it more difficult to breathe. Some people may develop chronic asthmatic bronchitis, a combination of asthma and chronic obstructive bronchitis.
  
  

Causes

• Progressive lung disease occurs only after your lungs have been exposed to irritants for a long time. According to NHLBI, cigarette smoke is the most common irritant that causes these types of lung disease. Other causes include prior respiratory infections, exposure to air pollution, working around dust or chemical fumes, or exposure to secondhand smoke or cigar and pipe smoke. If you have a problem producing the alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein, you may be more likely to develop COPD if you smoke or are exposed to smoke or other irritants. Smokers who have this rare genetic condition may experience a very rapid progression of COPD symptoms.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms of progressive lung disease may include a tight feeling in the chest, coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath. If you have chronic obstructive bronchitis, excess mucus production may force you to continually clear your throat, particularly after you first wake up. Progressive lung disease symptoms gradually worsen over time and if they become especially severe, you may find it difficult to participate in your normal daily activities. Even the slightest amount of exertion may cause you to become short of breath as the disease worsens.
  
  

Treatment

• Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and avoiding worsening of breathing problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), quitting smoking and removing air pollutants at home and work are important treatment aspects. Inhaled steroids may be helpful in reducing swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Bronchodilator inhalers may also be prescribed to help open airways by relaxing surrounding muscles. Respiratory infections are treated with antibiotics. Portable oxygen may be needed to help you breathe as the disease progresses.
  
  

Surgery

• Surgery to remove sections of damaged lung tissue and lung transplantation may be used as a last resort if medication and oxygen are not making it easier to breathe. Bullectomy may be used to remove large spaces from the lungs that interfere with breathing. These spaces develop after air sacs are destroyed. During lung-volume reduction surgery, damaged portions of the lung are removed, allowing the lungs to function better. In severe cases, lung transplants may be needed.