Diseases which can affect the lungs include asthma, bronchitis, cancer, emphysema (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), Legionnaires’, pneumonia and TB (tuberculosis).
The British Lung Foundation provides practical and emotional support for people affected by lung disease. Their helpline (0845 850 5020) team is made up of Respiratory Nurses, Welfare Benefits Advisers and Counsellors to provide support, and there is also a local support group (called Breathe Easy) that meets up on a monthly basis to socialise, enjoy days out and listen to guest speakers. The BLF also run a pen-pal befriending scheme, awareness and lung-testing events and a web community and online surgery.
Asthma UK is a charity dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of the 5.4 estimated people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma. Their telephone advice line (0800 121 62 44) is available for any concerns that you may have about asthma – they receive queries about what asthma is and what causes is, triggers, symptoms, treatments, inhalers, allergies, exercise, diet and many other concerns.
TB Alert is a charity dedicated to helping people with Tuberculosis in the UK and abroad.