All 'red flag' warning signs that suggest you have lung damage
Keeping track of how your organs are functioning can be quite difficult, given that they’re buried beneath layers of tissue, bone, and skin.
But thankfully, there are a host of external indicators which often emerge if something is not quite right on the inside.
Taking heed of these warning signs is crucial, as it could help you avoid running into some serious health problems later down the line.
And that's why experts at the Respiratory Therapy Zone (RTZ) are on a mission to educate people about all the red flags which could suggest your lungs might be struggling.
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The team of 'seasoned respiratory therapists, educators, and medical professionals' explain that this organ - which they describe as 'our body's natural air filters' - is susceptible to damage from various sources.
And given that the number of people being diagnosed with lung cancer is on the rise across the world, there's never been a more important time to swot up on the signs which might indicate something sinister is going on.
Even if you don't smoke or vape, this is still crucial knowledge for you to have - as pollution, chemical exposure and infections can all wreak havoc on your respiratory system too.
According to the Respiratory Therapy Zone, picking up on potential problems with your lungs 'can make a big difference in managing and treating potential issues effectively'.
So, let's take a look at the 13 warning signs they want us all to be wary of.
Clubbing of the fingers
Finger clubbing is a term which describes the rounded and enlarged appearance of your fingertips and nails, and it is a symptom associated with a variety of conditions.
RTZ say that it occurs 'due to changes in the soft tissue beneath the nail beds' and explain that it often flares up as a result of 'long-term oxygen deprivation or chronic low oxygen levels in the blood'.
It's an easy to spot symptom which points to a problem with your lungs - so if you notice that your fingers are looking a bit strange, make sure you check in with your doctor.
Chronic cough
A little splutter here and there is probably nothing to worry about, but if you've got a cough that you can't seem to shake, it could be a sign your lungs aren't in full working order.
If it lasts for longer than eight weeks, is more prominent at night or early in the morning, produces mucus, and is dry, RTZ say it could be a sign you've got a respiratory condition.
The experts explain it could be chronic bronchitis, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease or even lung cancer - and on top of that, you could even crack a rib if you're coughing with serious force.
Shortness of breath
If you're struggling to catch your breath after walking up a flight of stairs, RTZ warn it is a common symptom of lung damage.
The experts explain that this is a 'critical indicator' of the health of your respiratory system, as it can 'signify a serious underlying health issue requiring immediate medical attention'.
This symptom is associated with various lung conditions, so confer with your GP if you experience it.
Chronic mucus production
If you suddenly start producing a lot more mucus than usually, this could suggest your body is fighting something nasty off.
But it's a big problem if this lasts for at least three months, according to RTZ, as it is typically a sign of a serious respiratory condition.
So if you suddenly start coughing up a lot of mucus and it lasts for a significant period of time, get your chest looked at by a health professional.
Wheezing
RTZ defines wheezing as a 'high-pitched whistling sound made while breathing', explaining that this can be a sign of an obstruction or narrowing of the airways.
The experts state that this 'should not be ignored' under any circumstances, as it is often the result of an issue with your lungs.
Wheezing is a big indicator that there is some kind of issue with your internal breathing apparatus.
Blue lips or fingertips
If your lips or fingertips appear to be turning blue, it might be a sign that you are suffering from cyanosis.
This occurs when there is not enough oxygen in your blood or you have poor blood circulation - suggesting your lungs are struggling in some capacity.
This is really important to discuss with a doctor ASAP, as it could mean that vital tissues aren't receiving enough oxygen.
Coughing up blood
Even if it's only a 'tiny bit', you need to consult with a medic if you ever cough up blood.
RTZ explains: "This symptom always requires immediate medical attention to determine the source and extent of the bleeding, and to address any potential life-threatening conditions."
It's a scary sign that your lungs might have sustained some damage somewhere along the line.
Chronic chest pain
Experiencing a 'sharp aching' or 'burning sensation' in your chest which continues to come back can be a sign of lung damage.
It's essential for a health professional to carry out further investigation into this symptom to find the root cause.
RTZ warns that this symptom may also be exacerbated by physical activity, deep breathing and coughing.
Recurring respiratory infections
If you can't seem to shake respiratory infections, RTZ says it can be a sign that your lung health has been 'compromised'.
"Individuals who experience recurrent respiratory infections may have underlying issues such as asthma, COPD, or an immune deficiency that makes them more susceptible to airborne pathogens," the team explain.
It might just be a spate of bad luck, but it could also be a sign that your lungs are really struggling.
Chest tightness
Chest tightness often occurs as a result of 'inflamed or constricted airways', according to RTZ, and this might be a result of a chronic respiratory illness.
As well as indicating that your lungs are under pressure, this symptom can also be a sign of cardiac problems too.
Hence why it's so important to get yourself checked out by a health expert if you experience it.
Unexplained weight loss
Losing a significant amount of weight without trying can be a sign that your lungs aren't functioning at full capacity.
RTZ states that it often occurs when someone is battling a respiratory condition because of a combination of factors.
The boffins said: "The energy expenditure from the increased effort to breathe, coupled with decreased appetite and the systemic effects of chronic illness can lead to this weight loss."
Chronic fatigue
If you never seem to feel recharged no matter how much rest you are getting, it might be a sign that something is awry with your lungs.
In a similar fashion to the aforementioned symptom of lung damage, it could suggest that your body is getting worn out from battling to breathe while dealing with a reduced oxygen supply.
Sit down with your doctor if this persists for long periods.
Swelling in extremities
Your legs, feet, ankles and other extremities can swell up if you're dealing with lung problems.
RTZ explains that this is often the result of 'increased pressure in the lungs', which forces the heart to work harder and leads to fluid accumulation in the tissues of the your lower body
It often crops up alongside other symptoms, so get yourself to the doctors if you suddenly start swelling.
Olivia Burke