Resources
Helpful Resources
Access trusted information about respiratory conditions, support services, and helpful organisations.
The information on this page is for general guidance only. Always consult your GP, respiratory nurse, or healthcare team for advice specific to your condition.
Common Lung Conditions
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a group of lung conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It causes breathing difficulties and is often caused by smoking, but can also result from long-term exposure to harmful dust or fumes.
Key symptoms: Breathlessness, persistent cough, frequent chest infections, wheezing
Asthma
A common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties. It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, though it can develop at any age.
Key symptoms: Wheezing, breathlessness, tight chest, coughing (especially at night)
Pulmonary Fibrosis
A condition where the lungs become scarred and breathing becomes increasingly difficult. The scarring causes the lungs to become stiff and makes it harder for oxygen to get into the blood.
Key symptoms: Shortness of breath, persistent dry cough, fatigue, weakness
Bronchiectasis
A long-term condition where the airways of the lungs become abnormally widened, leading to a build-up of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection.
Key symptoms: Persistent cough with phlegm, breathlessness, chest pain, fatigue
Helpful Organisations
These organisations provide expert information, support, and resources for people with lung conditions.
Self-Management Tips
Managing a lung condition involves more than just taking medication. Here are some tips our members find helpful:
Breathing Techniques
- Pursed lip breathing to slow your breathing
- Diaphragmatic breathing for deeper breaths
- Positions to ease breathlessness
Staying Active
- Regular gentle exercise helps your lungs
- Ask about pulmonary rehabilitation
- Pace yourself and rest when needed
Nutrition
- Eat a balanced, healthy diet
- Stay well hydrated
- Smaller, more frequent meals if eating makes you breathless
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you:
- Are struggling to breathe or gasping for air
- Have sudden, severe chest pain
- Are coughing up blood
- Have blue lips or fingers
- Are confused or very drowsy
Need Support?
If you'd like to talk to someone who understands, join our friendly support group or get in touch.
Helpful Publications
Asthma + Lung UK produces excellent free publications on various lung conditions and topics.