Do pulmonary bullae affect lung function?

Generally speaking, if the pulmonary bullae are small and not numerous, they may not have a significant impact on lung function. However, if the bullae are large, they may affect lung function. If an increase in the size of the bullae or related symptoms is observed, timely medical attention should be sought. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Pulmonary bullae are air-filled cystic cavities formed within the lung tissue when alveolar pressure increases due to various causes, leading to rupture and merging of alveolar walls. If the bullae are small, limited in number, and located at the periphery of the lungs, they generally may not significantly affect lung function. Patients may experience no obvious symptoms or only mild shortness of breath.

However, as the bullae enlarge, breathing difficulties progressively worsen. The presence of bullae reduces lung elasticity, requiring increased effort to expand the lungs during respiration. Furthermore, the structural changes caused by bullae may impair airway mucus clearance, prolonging the retention time of bacteria and viruses in the lungs and increasing the risk of pulmonary infection.

During the recovery period, it is recommended to quit smoking and alcohol consumption promptly, ensure adequate rest, and avoid long-term sleep deprivation.