Respiratory diseases

Respiratory diseases are common in Finland: about 10 percent of the population has asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is estimated to affect about 200,000 Finns, many of whom remain undiagnosed. Sleep apnea has increased significantly in recent decades and is estimated to affect about one in ten Finns. Sinus infections and respiratory allergies are familiar to almost everyone.

Typical symptoms of asthma include wheezing, cough, shortness of breath and chest pain, which vary in intensity. In COPD, symptoms include progressive shortness of breath, especially on exertion, cough and mucus production. In sleep apnea, symptoms include snoring, breathing pauses at night, morning headache and daytime fatigue. Pneumonia and bronchitis cause more acute symptoms: fever, cough and general weakness.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease influenced by heredity, allergies and environmental factors. COPD is mostly caused by lung damage from smoking, but long-term exposure to dust or chemicals also plays a role. Risk factors for sleep apnea include overweight, neck obesity, older age and male sex. Pollen, animals and mold can trigger allergic symptoms.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and examinations. Spirometry measures lung function and is central to diagnosing both asthma and COPD. Overnight polygraphy or a sleep study is performed to diagnose sleep apnea. Allergy tests identify the causes of respiratory allergies. A pulmonologist or internist is a specialist in lung diseases, while an ENT doctor treats upper airway problems.

Asthma treatment is based on inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators. With good self-management motivation, asthma can be fully controlled. In COPD, smoking cessation is the most important measure. Medication, pulmonary rehabilitation and oxygen therapy are treatment options for COPD. Sleep apnea is treated with CPAP therapy and weight management.

Physiotherapy is an important part of rehabilitation for lung diseases: breathing muscle exercises, postural treatment and an exercise program improve functional capacity, especially in COPD. Persistent respiratory symptoms or recurrent infections should be evaluated by a doctor.