My research was predominantly derived from the American Lung Association and Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. I used these sources to gain an understanding of pulmonary diseases in general, like Chronic Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Pneumonia, and Pulmonary Fibrosis. During my research I found that the warning signs of all these diseases had many similarities such as shortness of breath, wheezing, a chronic cough, and chronic chest pain. Perhaps the most important similarity among them was that as they all progressed, the more strain was put on your lungs making it harder to breath. In order to verify the similarities, I used mayoclinic.org and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Pulmonary Fibrosis means scarring of the lungs. As the scar tissue in your lungs builds up on the air sacs’ wall in your lungs the passage of oxygen becomes harder. The most common symptoms are shortness of breath and a dry, hacking cough. However, over time you can develop rapid and shallow breathing, gradual and unintended weight loss, and aching muscles and joints.

Pulmonary Fibrosis and Asthma are not the same thing. Although they have many similarities in symptoms. Pulmonary Fibrosis is believed to be caused by both heredity and environmental causes. However, in most cases the doctors cannot determine what is the cause of it. Asthma is similar in that case. The lungs of someone with Asthma becomes inflamed and the passage of air is harder than normal. When someone has Pulmonary Fibrosis the lung has a buildup of scar tissue in the air sacs that make the passage of air difficult. Often those suffering from Pulmonary Fibrosis use an oxygen tank to assist in their breathing.

Pulmonary Fibrosis is usually diagnosed after a patient has shown some of the symptoms and had a chest X-ray. The chest X-rays may show the buildup of scar tissue but sometimes it does not. In those cases where it does not show anything, the patient may have to undergo a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan.

I interviewed Audrey Sylvia, who is the National Assistant Vice President for the American Lung Association. I conducted this interview through email and Ms. Sylvia sent my questions to her team. The American Lung Association has provided me valuable information on how those suffering from lung disease can combat the cold weather,  how to get involved, and how important raising awareness is key in diagnosing patients.

I had four aunts and uncles pass away from this disease when I was younger and I was always curious to learn more about this disease because they believe it is a hereditary disease. When I was first brainstorming ideas for my senior project, I noticed a lot of my peers did not know what this disease was. Originally, my plan for my senior project was to generate awareness among young adults and teens.  What drove me to yoga was a conversation I had with my two older sisters. For years, they have been trying to convince me to attend  a class with them and in a conversation we had in November they were talking about different breathing exercises they did in a particular class. Then one of them told me I should see if Rhode Island Power Yoga would host a class for my senior project. After reaching out to Mrs. Renee Deslauriers we both decided it was a great idea and opportunity to help raise awareness while also, help raise money for the American Lung Association.

Yes. By choosing a yoga type program for my project I felt like I could not only raise awareness for Pulmonary Fibrosis and other lung diseases but, help those who attend gain valuable exercises to strengthen their lungs and have an “Awareness on Breath.”