Signs and Symptoms of Popcorn Lung

Medically reviewed by Isabel Casimiro, MD, PhD

Bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as "popcorn lung," is a rare lung disease that happens when the smallest airways in your lungs (called bronchioles) become irreversibly inflamed and scarred. Damage to the bronchioles disrupts normal airflow in and out of your lungs, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, a dry cough, and wheezing. These symptoms often get worse with exercise or physical activities. 

Symptoms of popcorn lung develop gradually over weeks or months as the airways narrow and reduce oxygen supply to the lungs. Over time, inflammation and scarring of the bronchioles can worsen, making breathing increasingly difficult and affecting your day-to-day life. Early diagnosis and treatment of popcorn lung can help slow the progression of the disease and may ease the severity of your symptoms.

Dry Cough

A chronic, persistent dry cough is one of the most common symptoms of popcorn lung. Coughs that last for eight weeks or less are usually a symptom of a respiratory infection (e.g., the common cold) and go away after some time. A popcorn lung cough is ongoing and may worsen over time or when you exercise or engage in physically demanding activities, such as yard work.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a hallmark symptom of popcorn lung. You may notice you are out of breath or have difficulty breathing during exercise or everyday tasks like climbing stairs or walking. While shortness of breath may be subtle at first, it can worsen as your condition progresses. Eventually, you may also notice a feeling of “air hunger,” which occurs when you can’t take a deep breath even when resting.

Wheezing

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound from your airways that can happen while you breathe. It’s most common to hear wheezing when you exhale, but it can also occur during inhalation and may worsen with physical activity. With popcorn lung, wheezing is a sign of inflammation, swelling, and mucus build-up in the bronchioles.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a lack of energy and tiredness that persists even when you get enough rest. Popcorn lung causes your body to work harder to breathe. Damage to the bronchioles can mean your body and brain aren’t getting enough oxygen to function properly, which can also contribute to exhaustion. With fatigue, it's common to experience weakness, brain fog, and irritability.

Skin Rash

People who develop popcorn lung due to exposure to certain chemical toxins, such as diacetyl (a chemical used in food flavorings) may develop skin irritation or a skin rash. The affected skin may appear red, feel warm, be itchy, or have bumps that form into blisters—depending on the severity of the rash.

Symptoms in Children

While adults more commonly develop popcorn lung due to exposure to toxins or underlying rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), children can sometimes develop the condition as a complication of a severe respiratory infection, such as pneumonia or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This condition is known as post-infectious bronchiolitis obliterans.

Symptoms of popcorn lung in children are similar to those in adults and may include:

• Chronic cough

• Wheezing

• Rapid breathing

• Fatigue

• Cyanosis (bluish-colored fingernails, skin, or lips)

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Popcorn lung is a serious respiratory (lung-related) condition. If you have any persistent symptoms of popcorn lung such as a chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or fatigue that doesn't go away with rest, it's essential to see your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

In some cases, popcorn lung can cause more severe symptoms. Seek emergency medical care or call 911 if you or a loved one develop any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain

• Rapid breathing

• Fever

• Sweating

• Fast or irregular heartbeat

• Difficulty talking or breathing

• Confusion or disorientation

• Slurred speech

• Loss of consciousness

Questions to Ask Your Provider

When visiting your healthcare provider with concerns about popcorn lung, preparing a list of questions can be helpful before your appointment. Here are some questions to consider:

• Are there any other conditions that could be causing my fatigue?

• What specific tests will I need to confirm a diagnosis of popcorn lung?

• What treatments are currently available for popcorn lung?

• Are there any lifestyle changes or medications that can help me manage my chronic cough?

• If I receive a diagnosis for popcorn lung, what can I do to slow the progression of the disease?
  

A Quick Review

Bronchiolitis obliterans, or "popcorn lung," causes scarring and narrowing of the smallest airways leading to your lungs (bronchioles). The damage to the lungs with this condition cannot be reversed. Symptoms include chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue, which may worsen with exercise. Popcorn lung is a chronic, progressive disease and symptoms can worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and reduce symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does popcorn lung go away?

Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is a chronic condition that does not go away and can worsen over time. There is no cure for popcorn lung, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

Can vaping cause popcorn lung?

Vaping with e-cigarettes introduces toxic chemicals into your lungs and airways, which can increase your risk of lung conditions like popcorn lung. Quitting can help improve lung function and prevent long-term damage.

What does a popcorn lung cough sound like?

The popcorn lung cough is typically dry, persistent, and worsens during physical activity or exertion. While not every dry cough is a sign of popcorn lung, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider if you have a chronic cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer.

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