Smoking is known to cause various serious complications, not only for active smokers, but also for people around them who are exposed to cigarette smoke.
In recent years, some people have begun switching to e-cigarettes, or vapes, believing they pose fewer health risks than tobacco cigarettes. However, vaping is not risk-free.
Vaping carries health risks, including the potential to trigger a rare lung disease called popcorn lung . This article will discuss popcorn lung , its causes, and how to recognize its symptoms early.
What is Popcorn Lung?
Popcorn lung is a term that refers to bronchiolitis obliterans , a condition that affects the bronchioles due to inflammation and damage.
This disease can be triggered by exposure to inhaled hazardous chemicals, such as e-cigarette vapor or certain industrial materials. Although rare and non-contagious, popcorn lung can affect anyone and progresses rapidly if not treated promptly.
Causes of Popcorn Lung
The name popcorn lung comes from the first cases identified in popcorn factory workers. They were exposed to diacetyl vapors , an artificial butter flavoring chemical used in popcorn products. While safe when ingested, diacetyl can harm the lungs if inhaled over a long period.
Besides diacetyl , various other dangerous chemicals also have the potential to cause popcorn lung :
- Acetaldehyde.
- Sulfur mustard.
- Ammonia.
- Sulfur dioxide.
- Chlorine.
- Formaldehyde.
- Hydrochloric acid.
- Fumes from metal oxides.
- Nitrogen oxides.
There are a number of certain conditions that can increase a person's chances of developing popcorn lung , including:
- Suffering from a respiratory infection.
- Suffering from autoimmune disease.
- Suffering from Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
- Have had an organ or bone marrow transplant.
- Taking certain medications, such as penicillamine .
Symptoms of Popcorn Lung
Popcorn lung can cause various respiratory problems. Symptoms typically begin two to eight weeks after exposure to the causative chemical and can develop gradually or worsen rapidly.
Some common symptoms include:
- Hard to breathe.
- Dry cough.
- Weak.
- Wheezing.
- Fever.
- Lose weight.
- Sweating at night.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Irritation of the nose, eyes and mouth.
Unlike asthma symptoms, which can come and go, complaints caused by popcorn lung tend to be persistent and can get worse without proper treatment.
How to Relieve Popcorn Lung Symptoms
There is currently no complete cure for popcorn lung . However, several treatment options are available to relieve symptoms and slow lung damage.
Here are some common treatment methods:
1. Medicines
Doctors can prescribe medications according to symptoms and severity, such as:
- Corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation in the airways
- Antibiotics, if there is an infection such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
- Bronchodilators such as salbutamol, to help breathing.
- Antitussives, such as dextromethorphan, to relieve dry coughs.
- Oxygen
In severe cases, patients may require supplemental oxygen therapy or the use of a ventilator to assist breathing.
2. Physiotherapy
Physical exercise or respiratory physiotherapy can help strengthen the lungs and improve quality of life. These programs are usually tailored to each patient's individual condition.
3. Lung transplant
If the lungs are severely damaged, a transplant may be considered as a final treatment option. However, this procedure is only considered if the patient meets certain requirements, including no previous organ transplants.
In addition to medical treatment, sufferers are also advised to:
- Quit smoking and vaping
- Avoid exposure to hazardous chemicals
This effort is important to prevent worsening of lung conditions.
Don't Delay, See a Pulmonologist If You Experience Symptoms
Popcorn lung can be managed with medical treatment, although there is no definitive cure. Unfortunately, the condition can worsen over time, especially if left untreated .
If left untreated, popcorn lung can cause serious complications such as:
- Recurrent lung infections.
- Permanent lung damage.
- Respiratory failure.
- Risk of death
Therefore, if you experience symptoms suggestive of popcorn lung , consult a lung specialist immediately. Early treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent further lung damage.
Article written by Dr. Maria Dewi Caetline, Sp.P (Pulmonary and Respiratory Specialist at EMC Cikarang & Cibitung Hospital).