How is lung disease detected?

How to detect lung disease early

To detect a lung disease in time, some measures must be followed: Chronological steps . Although it's possible for it to be detected during a routine checkup, you're more likely to have some symptoms already. Here's the typical process so you know what to do:

1. Symptoms of lung disease

The first thing you have to check is if you suffer from any type of symptom that indicates a respiratory disease. Examples include: persistent cough , difficulty in taking air , "whistles" when breathing , chest tightness , general tiredness and, more indirectly, unexplained weight loss.

As a general rule, if you have any type of problem or think you may have one, you should see a doctor and avoid self-diagnosis. Although symptoms can vary, it's best to rule out possible causes. And, of course, routine blood tests and following vaccination recommendations will help.

2. Medical examination

The next step that will take a Doctor , knowing you history , is to make a Medical examination . They usually perform auscultation and ask you to breathe in and out, among other screening maneuvers. This can be used either to make a diagnosis or to order further tests to help confirm that diagnosis.

Depending on the complexity, the information they'll ask for will vary, or it may simply stop there. Consider a recurring cold or flu; in this case, a physical examination is usually sufficient. If more information is needed, we'll move on to the next step...

3. Analytics

The analytics They are requested when more information is needed to diagnose a disease . Here the most common thing is to request a Blood tests, arterial blood gases, and sputum tests are also ordered to determine if there are any problems. Sometimes, these tests are also ordered in parallel with other tests to supplement the clinical picture.

We must keep in mind that the process of requesting a blood test can take a few days or weeks until we get the results. Therefore, when faced with a complex diagnosis, all this information is usually requested at once.

4. Medical tests

The Medical tests are the final step in cases of uncertain diagnosis. Here we highlight the following cases:

• Lung capacity: Lung capacity tests determine how much air we can hold. It is, therefore, an indicator of good or bad health. It is not unusual for this test to be performed, even routinely.
• X-rays and CT scans: X-rays are used to detect any obstruction, virus, or tumor. They are usually ordered when symptoms are severe, to rule out serious illnesses. CT scans are more complex due to the time they require and are often associated with lung tumors.
• Spirography or spirometry: Spirometry is a test that allows you to see how much you can inhale and exhale at a time. It's especially useful when dealing with conditions like asthma or other chronic conditions.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a less commonly used procedure because it's by far the most invasive. In this case, and when there's serious suspicion of a serious disease, a tissue sample is removed.
• Pulmonary diffusion test: The pulmonary diffusion test is used to see how the lungs work when distributing oxygen in the blood. It's no secret that this is one of the key points.
• Exercise tests: Sometimes, the amount of air inhaled and exhaled is monitored for several minutes. This can be done through exercise or simply through a monitored walk.

The number of tests or their complexity will depend on the information needed in each case. This is precisely why we insist on consulting a professional.

Is there a genetic predisposition to lung diseases?

There is indeed a genetic predisposition to certain lung diseases. Therefore, if you intend to have children, it is a good idea to have a genetic compatibility test with your partner to know the odds. It's even more important if there are people in your family history of these diseases .

These are some examples of lung diseases that have a significant hereditary component. Note:

Cystic fibrosis

The cystic fibrosis It is a genetic disease that is diagnosed shortly after birth. Basically, it involves hereditary genetic mutations that occur in a fairly high percentage. There is no cure, and treatment is based on minimizing symptoms. One way to detect it is by prickling the newborn's heel.

Lung cancer

He Lung cancer isn't necessarily hereditary , although it's true that there's a greater predisposition if there's a family history. If you suspect it, it's always wise to do a genetic test to confirm. However, there are other risk factors that have a significant influence, such as smoking or exposure to air pollution.

COPD

The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) does not necessarily have a genetic or hereditary component. However, just as with lung cancer, having family history increases the chances of suffering from it. Some type of test can also help.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

This The disease is genetic , passed down from parents to children, and not only affects the lungs but also the liver. Although it is a genetic disease, treatment can help people achieve a better quality of life.

Kartagener's syndrome

He Kartagener's syndrome yes it can be considered one genetic disease due to mutations. Basically, it's a buildup of mucus, which makes breathing difficult under normal conditions. This condition, which has no cure, can lead to the development of other diseases.

Therefore…

Lung disease can be diagnosed with several medical tests, most often based on previous symptoms. Do you want to know if you're at risk for these diseases due to genetics? Genotics You will find all kinds of genetic testing compared by class, price, and level of detail. Don't be left wondering!