Priyanka Tiwari
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Popcorn lung or bronchiolitis obliterans is a rare condition that inflicts damage in form of scarring and inflammation on the smallest airways of the lungs. If not treated in due course, the damage can become irreversible.
The disease gained notoriety after factory workers developed it from breathing in diacetyl, which is used in buttery popcorn flavoring. In modern times, the same dangerous chemical can be found in many flavored e-cigarettes.
The topic became even more popular among parents and teenagers when, Brianna Martin, a teenager diagnosed with popcorn lung after prolonged vaping went viral. The attention she received regarding her symptoms which started out as a mild cold or asthma, masking the real issue, which further delayed her diagnosis and treatment.
Recognising these symptoms can be challenging as they develop later, but some that arise are:
Chronic and persistent cough of dry nature
Labored breathing
Excessive energy expenditure even while performing basic tasks
Breathe defiency
Wheezing
Fatigue
These symptoms are more pronounced during rest periods and make diagnosing the condition at an earlier stage complicated.
How popcorn lung is diagnosed
If you notice these symptoms and are a frequent vaper, consider visiting a pulmonologist. The following procedures might be undertaken:
Chest X-ray or CT scan
Pulmonary function tests
Complex cases may require a lung biopsy.
To avoid incurring permanent damage and scarring to the lungs, timely diagnosis is essential.
Managing symptoms of popcorn lung
Treatments focused on managing 'popcorn lung' symptoms include:
Use of corticosteroids such as prednisone to manage inflammation.
Use of inhalers and bronchodilators to support ease in breathing.
Administration of oxygen therapy in severe stages.
And, as a last resort, lung transplant.
Stopping caps prevents compression
Quitting vaping is the most fundamental step in managing the symptoms. Not stopping worsens lung sustains damage. Reach out to:
Discontinuation programs.
Therapeutic sessions.
Health departments.
Maintaning lung health
Engage in physical activities and maintain a healthy diet that includes:
Avoiding smoky environments:
Filling your diet with antioxidants in the form of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
Being proactive in regards to vaccines.
Undergoing routine checkups to monitor lung functionality.
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