Smoking Related Breathing Disorders

Smoking-related breathing disorders are respiratory conditions caused or exacerbated by smoking. These disorders primarily include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis, which are marked by persistent airflow limitation and difficulty breathing. Smoking can also worsen conditions like asthma and increase the risk of lung cancer, interstitial lung diseases (ILD), and infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis.

Treatment typically involves smoking cessation, which is critical to halting disease progression. Additional therapies include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions.

Specialists like Dr. Vaibhav R. Kubal focus on diagnosing, managing, and improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these disorders. Regular monitoring, pulmonary function tests, and patient education are integral to effective care.