Inflammation is the body’s natural defence mechanism. As Dr Abhijit Ahuja, Pulmonologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, explains, whenever the body encounters injury, infection, or harmful substances, the immune
system activates inflammation to protect and repair tissues. However, when this response becomes prolonged as seen in chronic lung diseases, persistent infections, or continuous exposure to air pollution, it shifts from being protective to damaging. Instead of healing, chronic inflammation gradually injures lung tissue and airways, impairing respiratory function over time.
Inflammation and COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the clearest examples of inflammation becoming harmful. According to Dr Ahuja, repeated exposure to triggers such as cigarette smoke, biomass fuel, or industrial pollution constantly irritates the lungs. This leads immune cells to release inflammatory chemicals that, over the years, damage the delicate air sacs, stiffen the airways, and progressively reduce lung capacity. The outcome is persistent breathlessness, chronic cough, and frequent exacerbations. Dr Ahuja highlights that in many COPD patients, inflammation may continue even after the triggering exposure has stopped, making long-term management crucial.
The Impact of Long-Term Infections
Persistent infections such as tuberculosis, recurrent bacterial pneumonias, or certain viral illnesses, keep the immune system in a constant state of alert. Dr Abhijit Ahuja notes that even after an infection has resolved, immune cells may continue producing inflammatory substances. This lingering inflammation can cause lung scarring, airway narrowing, and a gradual decline in lung function. Repeated infections may also prime the immune system to overreact to minor irritants, leading to ongoing inflammation and respiratory discomfort.
Pollution and Environmental Toxins
Air pollution remains a major contributor to chronic lung inflammation. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide, and ozone can directly injure the lung lining. As Dr Abhijit Ahuja explains, these pollutants generate oxidative stress, an imbalance where harmful molecules overwhelm the body’s natural protective mechanisms. This stress triggers inflammation and interferes with the lungs’ ability to heal. Continuous exposure can result in persistent low-grade inflammation, increasing the risk of asthma, COPD, respiratory infections, and even cardiovascular complications.
Why Chronic Inflammation Is Dangerous
Unlike short-term inflammation, which aids healing, chronic inflammation is destructive. Dr Abhijit Ahuja emphasises that it damages lung tissue, increases mucus production, slows recovery, weakens immune defences, and accelerates structural changes in the airways. Over time, this can lead to irreversible lung damage, reduced quality of life, and heightened susceptibility to infections and serious complications.
The Way Forward
Breaking the cycle of chronic inflammation is possible. According to Dr Abhijit Ahuja, Pulmonologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, lung health begins with prevention reducing exposure to pollutants, quitting smoking, treating infections promptly, and using appropriate anti-inflammatory therapies when indicated. Understanding how chronic diseases, infections, and pollution drive inflammation underscores the importance of early medical intervention and collective efforts toward cleaner air.
Chronic inflammation is not merely a symptom, it is a silent driver of disease. Addressing it early can protect lung health and significantly improve long-term quality of life.
