Does pulmonary bullae affect lung function?

Feb 11, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Pulmonary bullae, commonly referred to as lung bullae, are air-filled cystic spaces formed within lung tissue when alveolar pressure increases due to various causes, leading to rupture of alveolar walls and subsequent merging of alveoli. Whether lung bullae affect lung function depends on the severity of the condition. If the bullae are small, they may not impact lung function; however, larger bullae can impair lung function.

　　A pulmonary bulla, commonly referred to as a lung bulla, refers to an air-filled sac formed within the lung tissue when alveolar pressure increases due to various causes, leading to rupture of alveolar walls and subsequent merging of alveoli. Whether a pulmonary bulla affects lung function depends on the individual case. If the bulla is small, it may not impact lung function; however, a large bulla can impair lung function. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should be conducted under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　If the pulmonary bulla is small and shows no tendency to expand, it generally does not significantly affect lung function. Such bullae may be incidentally detected during physical examinations, and patients typically do not experience noticeable symptoms such as shortness of breath.

　　A large pulmonary bulla occupies space within the lung, thereby reducing the surface area available for gas exchange in normal lung tissue. This impairs the intake of oxygen and removal of carbon dioxide, diminishes alveolar function, and reduces the efficiency of gas exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide.

　　If a pulmonary bulla does affect lung function, patients may follow their physician's recommendation for a lung wedge resection to help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, adequate rest is advised, and strenuous physical activity should be avoided.

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What are the symptoms of lung heat?

Lung heat is a pathological condition in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily referring to the lung being invaded by heat pathogens or internal accumulation of phlegm-heat, leading to a series of symptoms and signs affecting lung function. Symptoms of lung heat include thirst, fever, cough, dark urine, and dry stools. Patients with lung heat should pay attention to regulating internal heat and maintain good lifestyle habits to alleviate symptoms and prevent worsening of the condition.

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What is a pulmonary bulla? Is it serious?

Pulmonary bullae refer to air-filled cystic cavities formed within lung tissue due to increased pressure within alveolar spaces from various causes, leading to rupture and merging of alveolar walls. The severity of pulmonary bullae needs to be determined based on their size and associated symptoms. If the bullae are small and symptoms are mild, they are generally not considered severe; however, if the bullae are large and symptoms are significant, the condition is considered more serious.