What are the Symptoms of Chronic Lung Conditions?
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Chronic pulmonary conditions can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making it critical to recognize the early symptoms and seek prompt diagnosis. At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA, board-certified physician Dr. Avi Ishaaya offers advanced lung testing for a variety of respiratory conditions to help patients find relief. From persistent coughing to shortness of breath, identifying and managing these serious respiratory symptoms early can help prevent further complications. Learn more about common lung conditions, their symptoms, and the state-of-the-art diagnostic tools we have available to address them.
What are the most common lung problems?
Several respiratory conditions can develop over time due to infections, environmental factors, smoking, or underlying health issues. Some of the most common lung conditions and their respective symptoms include:
- Bronchitis; symptoms include persistent coughing, sore throat, fever, and noisy breathing.
- Asthma; symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightening, and coughing.
- COPD; symptoms include labored breathing, chronic cough, and mucus production.
- Pneumonia; symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, and mucus-filled cough.
Understanding these conditions allows patients to identify warning signs of lung disease and take appropriate action to protect their respiratory health.
How is lung disease diagnosed?
At Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers, a range of advanced diagnostic tools is available to evaluate lung health and detect chronic conditions. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Ishaaya may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic pulmonary tests:
- Pulmonary function tests (PFT) to measure lung volume, airflow, and capacity to detect disorders like asthma and COPD
- Oxygen six-minute walk study to assess how well your lungs perform during physical activity by measuring your oxygen levels
- Exhaled nitric oxide test to measure airway inflammation and monitor asthma treatment effectiveness
- Methacholine challenge test to confirm asthma by narrowing airways and observing your response
- Imaging tests like CT scans, x-rays, and ultrasounds to identify infections, blockages, or damage
These pulmonary tests help determine the cause of respiratory symptoms and guide the development of a personalized lung care treatment plan.
When should I get a lung test?
Signs you need a lung test can vary from person to person. Generally speaking, however, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be time to schedule a lung evaluation:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Fatigue
- Mucus production
- Fever and chills
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening lung function and other complications, especially for those with underlying respiratory problems and/or other health conditions.
How are lung problems treated?
Treatment for chronic lung conditions varies based on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms. Based on the findings of your evaluation, Dr. Ishaaya may recommend some combination of the following to help relieve your respiratory symptoms, improve your lung health, and prevent more serious complications:
- Medications to reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to enhance lung function
- Oxygen therapy for improved oxygen levels
- Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and avoiding triggers
Like many other conditions, early diagnosis and treatment of lung problems are essential to managing symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and improving overall lung health.
Protect your respiratory health and breathe easier with advanced lung testing in Los Angeles, CA
If you're experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms, take control of your lung health by scheduling a consultation with board-certified physician Dr. Avi Ishaaya at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA. With comprehensive diagnostic tools and expertise, Dr. Ishaaya can help identify the cause of your symptoms and provide the treatment you need to breathe easier. Don't wait to get the relief you deserve — call today to book your appointment.