Lung conditions in women
Your lungs bring oxygen in and carry carbon dioxide out. Several autoimmune conditions can inflame or scar lung tissue, often quietly at first.
Conditions that affect your lungs 8
Autoimmune and chronic conditions that can involve your lungs. Each guide covers early signs, labs to ask about, and when to see a doctor.
Asthma
ChronicLong-term inflammation of the airways that makes them swell, tighten, and fill with mucus in response to triggers, causing wheezing and shortness of breath.
Allergies
ChronicAn immune overreaction to harmless things in the environment, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander.
Insomnia and sleep disorders
ChronicTrouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking rested, at least 3 nights a week for 3 months or more. Other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, are often missed in women.
Dermatomyositis & myositis
AutoimmuneAutoimmune conditions in which the immune system inflames the muscles, causing weakness. Dermatomyositis also causes a distinctive rash.
Rheumatoid arthritis
AutoimmuneThe immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing painful swelling that can damage cartilage and bone if untreated.
Scleroderma
AutoimmuneThe immune system drives thickening and scarring of the skin, and sometimes internal organs, along with damage to small blood vessels.
Mixed connective tissue disease
AutoimmuneAn overlap condition with features of lupus, scleroderma, and myositis, marked by high levels of an antibody called anti-U1 RNP.
Lupus
AutoimmuneA whole-body autoimmune disease that can inflame the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and brain.
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Signs worth getting checked
- Shortness of breath with everyday activity
- A dry cough that lasts more than 8 weeks
- Chest pain when you breathe deeply
- Wheezing or chest tightness
Ingredients that affect your lungs
Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other supplements commonly used for the lungs. Each one links to its full guide.
About your lungs
What it does
Airways branch into millions of tiny air sacs where oxygen passes into the blood. A thin lining around each lung lets it glide smoothly as you breathe. Lung scarring from autoimmune disease can start with no symptoms, so lung function tests matter.
Common issues
- Asthma
- Allergies and postnasal drip
- Chest colds and other respiratory infections
- A chronic cough from reflux
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.