What is long lung?

[Jim_SRQ]

I went to the hosp for being sick and they took an x-ray of my lungs and the x-ray tech had to take 2 x-rays because she said I had long lungs. After blood work and x-rays they said I had the flu and bronchitis... My Aunt had copd (dont know if its heridiitary or not?) and I think I may have it as well? I do have all the systems of it and I have been smoking a pack of cigs a day from 1985-now and I'm 46 now (so for 31 yrs or so).

[jemma116]

Another name for "long lungs" is Hyperinflated lungs.  You can find more detailed information on the web regarding hyperinflated lungs.

The long lungs are more than likely to be from chronic bronchitis due to damage from all those years of smoking.  At the moment you have influenza which is not helping matters.

You doctor will give you the results whether you have COPD and advice with regard to treatment.

To help unblock any congestion, do steam inhalations.  To do a steam inhalation, boil up a kettleful of water and pour this into a bowl, taking care not to get scalded.  Put a little Vick or Olbas oil or any menthol drops into the hot water.  Bend your head over the bowl and cover your head and the bowl with a large towel.  Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Do this for a duration of 10 minutes, 4 times a day if you can.  You can also rub some Vick on your chest and neck.  You can rub it on the cheek bones and eye brow area if you have any sinus congestion.  This will not cure any damage, but will help to unblock any airways.

Drink plenty of fluids (honey and lemon) and keep away from any irritants.  Cover your mouth and nose when outside so that you do not breathe in the cold area.  Stay warm and rest plenty to help recovery from the flu.

Wishing you a speedy recovery.