What is a pulmonary bulla?

Generally speaking, pulmonary bullae usually refer to pulmonary bulla, a type of lung disease. It typically develops when pressure within the alveolar spaces increases due to various causes, leading to rupture of alveolar walls and subsequent merging of adjacent spaces, forming gas-filled cystic cavities larger than 1 cm in diameter within the lung tissue. A detailed analysis is as follows:

The exact cause of pulmonary bulla is not entirely clear, but most cases are secondary to underlying lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, some patients may be affected by abnormal bronchial structures, genetic changes, or congenital factors. Long-term smoking also increases the risk of developing pulmonary bulla, as smoking damages airway epithelial cells and destroys the elastic fibers of the alveolar walls, making the alveoli prone to overinflation and expansion. Small bullae that are few in number usually do not cause noticeable symptoms, while larger bullae, multiple bullae, or those associated with severe underlying diseases may cause symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.

In daily life, one should avoid strenuous exercise and severe coughing to prevent rupture of the bulla, which could lead to pneumothorax. Additionally, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, can help reduce the burden on the lungs.