There are a variety of lung diseases, and they can all present with early symptoms that could prompt a visit to your doctor, which could help you catch it in its early stages. The American Lung Association notes many people assume their cough or shortness of breath is part of normal aging, but that’s not always the case – it could be something more sinister.
Lung diseases can vary in severity but they should all be taken seriously. They include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer, notes the association. However, even if you have these telltale symptoms, try to breathe easy until you see your physician for a proper diagnosis.
Shortness of Breath
Sure, it’s pretty normal to experience shortness of breath (clinically referred to as “dyspnea”) during and shortly after strenuous activities, such as jogging, heavy lifting, or climbing seven flights of stairs. However, the American Lung Association reminds you, “It’s not normal to experience shortness of breath that doesn’t go away after exercising.”
In some cases, you may find yourself trying to catch your breath even when you’ve been idle or have engaged in some light activity. If you have shortness of breath, it could be an early warning sign of a health issue related to your lungs.