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There are many lung diseases that can develop with age. Some are severe, but many can be controlled with your doctor’s help.

April 1, 2025

By Dr. Temukisa Young-Henley
Optum - Fern Park
Fern Park, Florida

Many older adults cope with lung disease, ranging from controllable conditions such as asthma, to more serious illnesses such as lung cancer. Respiratory illnesses are pervasive and it’s important to recognize the various illnesses and symptoms and know when to seek medical help.

There are several types of lung diseases. Some are more prevalent than others, especially in older adults, including:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. The disease gets worse over time, but can be managed with treatments such as inhalers, oxygen therapy and quitting smoking. Over 15 million Americans have COPD, and millions more may have it without knowing. Early detection and treatment are vital to improving quality of life.

Asthma

Asthma is a lifelong disease that causes the airways in the lungs to swell and narrow. This makes it hard to breathe and can cause coughing and wheezing. About 28 million Americans have asthma. Many people control their asthma and live normally with inhalers and medicine.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can affect one or both lungs. It is responsible for over a million hospitalizations each year. It’s caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Pneumonia makes breathing hard because the air sacs in the lungs fill with fluid or pus. Anyone can get pneumonia, but people older than 65, those with certain medical conditions and smokers, are at higher risk.

Pulmonary fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a serious condition in which the lungs become scarred, making breathing harder. It is one of more than 200 interstitial lung diseases (ILD) that cause inflammation or scarring in the lungs. There is no cure for pulmonary fibrosis and it usually gets worse over time. However, oxygen therapy and lung rehab can slow it down and improve breathing.

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is a common, deadly cancer, especially in people who smoke. It can often be found at an advanced stage, making it harder to treat. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are common treatments. Targeted therapy or immunotherapy may also be options. Early detection gives the best chance of recovery.

Lung nodules

Lung nodules — or pulmonary nodules — are small growths. By definition, they are no larger than 3 cm, or about 1.25” across. Anything bigger than that is considered a mass. They are often found when people have X-rays or scans for other reasons.

Most lung nodules are not cancerous. In fact, 95% of lung nodules are harmless and caused by infections, scars or other minor problems. However, in some cases, lung nodules can be cancerous, so it’s essential to follow up with your doctor​. Your doctor also may recommend more scans to check if the nodule changes over time. Nodules that stay the same size usually aren’t cancerous, but if new symptoms develop, such as a chronic cough or chest pain, see your doctor.

If your doctor thinks the nodule could be cancer, he may recommend a biopsy to check it more closely. Early detection can help with better treatment options​.

Symptoms of respiratory distress

Recognizing the signs of respiratory distress is essential. Some symptoms may require urgent medical attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek help immediately. Here are the key signs to be aware of:

  • Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath can have many causes, but it often means your body isn’t getting enough oxygen. If you frequently feel like you can’t catch your breath, it could indicate a lung issue like COPD, asthma or lung cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and improve your quality of life, so be sure to consult your doctor.
  • Increased breathing rate: If someone is breathing faster than normal, it might indicate they’re struggling to breathe or to get enough oxygen.
  • Color changes: A bluish tint around the mouth, lips, fingernails, or pale/gray skin can signal low oxygen levels.
  • Grunting: A grunting sound when exhaling may mean the body is trying to keep air in the lungs. It is a defense against lung collapse.
  • Nose flaring: When the nostrils widen during breathing, it can be a sign that someone is working harder than usual to breathe.
  • Retractions: This occurs when the chest below the neck or under the breastbone appears to sink in with each breath. It’s a sign that the person struggles to pull air into their lungs.
  • Sweating: Excessive sweating, with cool or clammy skin, can happen when breathing becomes too fast or labored.
  • Wheezing: A whistling or musical sound during breathing often means narrowed airways, making it hard to move air in and out of the lungs.
  • Body position: People often lean forward while sitting to breathe deeper. If someone does this, it may mean they can’t breathe. Seek medical help right away.

Long-term management

Some lung diseases, like COPD and pulmonary fibrosis, are long-term and get more severe over the years. COPD or pulmonary fibrosis can lead to respiratory failure if not properly managed. With proper treatment, you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Regular check-ups are important, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with a lung disease or found a lung nodule.

The importance of early detection

Timely detection and treatment of lung issues are essential to help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Pay attention to warning signs and seek help if needed, which can significantly improve health and quality of life. Keeping your lungs as healthy as possible is vital for your well-being.

Sources

Temukisa Young-Henley, MD received her medical degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville. She completed her residency at Florida Hospital in Orlando. Dr. Young-Henley practices family medicine at Optum – Fern Park in Fern Park Florida.

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