Lung disease is not an uncommon problem in many areas of the world. This is because there is such a vast array of diseases that fall into this category. Some are contagious and others are hereditary, the latter of which include disorders such as emphysema and asthma.

Medical experts report that approximately 500,000 people perished from such diseases every year in the United States alone, where such disorders account for twenty percent of all deaths. In the case of lung cancer, which was very rare prior to the manufacturing and distribution of cigarettes, many of these deaths are highly preventable.

Lung cancer has the highest mortality rate of all pulmonary disorders, and it is one of the most fatal types of malignancy. On the North American continent, more people die from this kind of cancer that die from lymph, colon, prostate, and breast cancers combined. However, malignant tumors in the lungs can be prevented in most cases, as 90% of patients who suffer from this illness are smokers.

Bronchitis is a pulmonary disease that occurs when an individual's bronchi become inflamed. Acute bronchitis frequently occurs when an individual has a respiratory infection or cold. Chronic bronchitis, however, is an illness of a more serious nature, and characterized as a constant inflammation of the bronchi.

Emphysema is a lung disorder that restricts one's ability to exhale. Many cases are linked to long-term smoking; however, non-smokers are sometimes afflicted with the disorder as well. As it progresses, the air sacs responsible for allowing oxygen to enter the individual's lungs are destroyed. Proper healthcare and various treatments can impede the progression of the disease, but no cure has yet been found.

Pneumonia is another inflammatory disorder of the lungs, and it often accompanies the flu. Even though it is not as deadly as it was decades ago, it can be particularly dangerous to the elderly and youngsters if it is left untreated. The treatment of choice for this illness is typically penicillin, but additional antibiotics are often prescribed as well.

Asthma is a disorder that occurs when a person's bronchial tubes become constricted due to inflammation. Asthma can be mild or serious in nature, but often causes a person to wheeze. In certain instances, asthma attacks can be life threatening. Inhalers or oral medications are usually prescribed by a health care practitioner to treat this type of disorder. Any person who suspects the presence of lung disease should schedule an appointment with a doctor without delay. This will ensure that the proper diagnosis is made and subsequent treatment pursued.