Officially known as bronchiolitis obliterans, popcorn lung causes inflammation in small airways within the lungs. Over time, this inflammation will cause permanent damage to the airways, which can lead to difficulty with breathing, as well as other symptoms.
Popcorn lung is characterized by the following symptoms:
This lung condition results from the inhalation of certain chemicals known to damage the lungs. Symptoms can result from working environments, but they can also be caused by vaping e-cigarettes. Symptoms of bronchiolitis obliterans can take time to become evident.
Early detection of popcorn lung is key to managing the condition. Once the lung tissue has been damaged, there is no way to repair it. Medications can sometimes make breathing easier. This includes corticosteroids, which help reduce swelling in the lungs. Inhalers can also deliver medication directly to the lungs to improve breathing.
In more severe instances, medication may not be sufficient in treating popcorn lung. In this case, doctors will recommend oxygen therapy. When lung damage is severe, a lung transplant may be the best option.
Popcorn lung will become gradually worse with continued exposure to noxious chemicals. Accordingly, you must limit your exposure to chemicals in work environments. And when it comes to vaping, quit as soon as possible (or do not start).