Popcorn lung is a medical situation that damages the bronchioles in your lungs. Since there isn’t a remedy for this situation, it is best to know the whole lot about it to scale back your danger of getting it.Bronchiolitis obliterans or obliterative bronchiolitis, usually often called popcorn lungs, is a extreme however uncommon situation. Its title could not sound like a menace to you, however this situation could trigger irreversible harm to your lungs. Whereas in a roundabout way linked to the consumption of popcorn, it’s related to publicity to particular chemical substances, notably diacetyl, a flavouring agent present in sure meals objects equivalent to microwave popcorn. Vaping or use of e-cigarettes may additionally be a danger issue. On this situation, scarring could happen within the lung airways, which may pose a danger for numerous severe ailments.What causes popcorn lungs?Bronchiolitis obliterans, generally often called popcorn lung, isn’t contagious, that means it could actually’t be transmitted from one individual to a different. It’s primarily attributable to publicity to diacetyl, a chemical present in butter-flavoured merchandise like microwave popcorn.“Extended inhalation of diacetyl can inflame and scar the small airways of the lung, resulting in signs like coughing and shortness of breath. It damages lung tissues, impairing regular operate. Employees in industries utilizing diacetyl, equivalent to popcorn factories, face heightened dangers of growing this situation,” says pulmonologist Dr Sanggita Checker.Though diacetyl is now not utilized in popcorn manufacturing to safeguard staff’ well being, it stays in use in numerous different sectors. Regardless of its affiliation with popcorn lung illness, diacetyl is included within the liquid utilised in sure flavoured e-cigarettes. Vaping entails heating a liquid and inhaling the aerosol into the lungs. Actually, researchers at Harvard discovered that 39 of 51 e-cigarette manufacturers contained diacetyl. Popcorn lung is a situation that may harm your lungs. Picture courtesy: Adobe StockAnother prevalent issue is acetaldehyde, current within the smoke of marijuana and sure digital cigarettes, which may hurt the liner of the mouth, throat, and abdomen. Moreover, numerous different chemical substances, equivalent to chlorine, ammonia, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, fumes from welding, formaldehyde, phosgene, mustard fuel, and so on., may also contribute to popcorn lung when inhaled.Additionally ReadWho is in danger for growing popcorn lung?Sure well being situations which might be linked to the elevated danger of popcorn lung embrace: Respiratory sicknesses equivalent to pneumonia or bronchitis. Viral infections equivalent to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Collagen vascular ailments. Drug reactions. Irritation and scarring from a lung transplant. Autoimmune ailments equivalent to rheumatoid arthritis.Signs of popcorn lungsBronchiolitis obliterans causes the smallest airways in your lungs (known as bronchioles) to turn into irreversibly infected and scarred. This may end up in a number of signs, equivalent to: Persistent cough: A persistent cough that doesn’t enhance with common therapies might be an indication of bronchiolitis obliterans. Shortness of breath: The gradual onset of breathlessness, particularly throughout bodily exercise, could point out lung points. Wheezing: Unexplained wheezing or whistling sounds whereas respiratory could also be a symptom of airway narrowing. Fatigue: Feeling excessively drained or weak, even with enough relaxation, could be related to compromised lung operate. Chest discomfort: Some folks expertise chest ache or discomfort because the lungs are affected.Additionally learn: Will your lungs heal after you stop smoking?How does vaping enhance the chance of popcorn lung?The American Lung Affiliation has known as popcorn lung a harmful danger of flavoured e-cigarettes. Whereas quite a few research have demonstrated the adversarial results of e-cigarettes, a 2015 examine within the Journal Environmental Well being Views revealed the presence of dangerous chemical substances linked to popcorn lung in numerous flavoured e-cigarettes, particularly these with fruity and sweet flavours which will enchantment to younger people who smoke. This could trigger extreme harm to your lungs. Vaping shouldn’t be protected on your well being! Picture courtesy: Adobe StockHow is popcorn lung handled?Popcorn lungs can’t be cured. The remedy is out there to decelerate its development and ease signs.Choose Subjects of your curiosity and allow us to customise your feed. PERSONALISE NOW If the situation is linked to occupational publicity, avoiding dangerous substances is essential. Bronchodilators and corticosteroids could also be prescribed by your physician to handle signs and scale back irritation. In superior instances, offering further oxygen can alleviate respiratory difficulties. Quitting smoking and sustaining a wholesome life-style can enhance general lung well being. In extreme instances, when conservative measures fail, a lung transplant could also be thought of.Since popcorn causes long-lasting harm, early detection and immediate intervention are important in managing the situation.