Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Disease

It is a good idea to seek medical care when shortness of breath and cough persist without a clear explanation, as it could be diffuse parenchymal lung disease, a group of disorders that affect the lung tissue where oxygen exchange takes place.

What is it? It brings together various conditions that cause inflammation or scarring of the lung tissue, which reduces the lung's ability to oxygenate the blood.

Common symptoms: Difficulty breathing that increases with exertion and a persistent dry cough are usually the most noticeable manifestations.

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist is the main provider, with support from the internist; in acute cases the emergency physician is involved. If respiratory symptoms persist, the advisable course is to have a specialist evaluate it.