Asthma – It is characterized by narrowing and inflammation of bronchi and bronchioles and difficulty in breathing. Common allergens for asthma are dust, drugs, pollen grains, certain food items like fish, prawns and certain fruits etc. Emphysema – Emphysema is chronic breathlessness caused by the gradual breakdown of the thin walls of the alveoli decreasing the total surface area of gaseous exchange, i.e., widening of the alveoli is called emphysema. The major cause for this disease is cigarette smoking, which reduces the respiratory surface of the alveolar walls.Bronchitis- The bronchi when it gets inflated due to pollution smoke and cigarette smoking, causes bronchitis. The symptoms are cough, shortness of breath, and sputum in the lungs. Pneumonia- Inflammation of the lungs due to infection caused by bacteria or viruses is called pneumonia. The common symptoms are sputum production, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, sore throat, etc.Tuberculosis- Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculate. This infection mainly occurs in the lungs and bones. The collection of fluid between the lungs and the chest wall is the main complication of this disease. Occupational respiratory disorders- The disorders due to one’s occupation of working in industries like grinding or stone breaking, construction sites, cotton industries, etc
Dust produced affects the respiratory tracts. Long exposure can give rise to inflammation leading to fibrosis. Silicosis and asbestosis are occupational respiratory diseases resulting from the inhalation of particles of silica from sand grinding and asbestos into the respiratory tract. Workers, working in such industries must wear protective masks.