Answer
Chronic bronchitis
Emphysema
Lung cancer
Work Step by Step
Chronic bronchitis: Smoking damages the cilia (hair-like structures) lining the airways, which leads to inflammation and excess mucus production. This can cause a chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Over time, the inflammation can also damage the airway walls, making them narrower and more susceptible to infections.
Emphysema: Smoking can also damage the air sacs in the lungs, called alveoli, causing them to lose their elasticity and become less efficient at exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide. This leads to shortness of breath, especially during physical activity, and a feeling of being constantly out of breath.
Lung cancer: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all cases. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke can damage the DNA in lung cells, causing them to grow and divide uncontrollably and form tumors. Symptoms of lung cancer may include coughing up blood, chest pain, and persistent cough.
