“Popcorn lung” is a colloquial term for a lung disease called bronchiolitis obliterans. This a serious and usually irreversible lung condition that damages the small airways in the lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The term originated from an incident in the early 2000s when workers in a microwave popcorn plant developed this condition after being exposed to high levels of diacetyl, a chemical used in artificial butter flavoring.

Causes

While diacetyl is most commonly associated with popcorn lung, other potential causes include:

• Chemical exposure : Inhalation of certain chemicals, including those in the food flavoring industry, can increase the risk.
• Vaping : Some studies suggest that inhaling vapor from e-cigarettes containing diacetyl may also pose a risk.
• Respiratory infections : Some viral infections can lead to damage similar to that seen in bronchiolitis obliterans.

Symptoms

Symptoms of popcorn lung may include:

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath (especially during physical activity)
• Fatigue

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, lung function tests, and imaging studies. Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and may include bronchodilators and corticosteroids. However, since popcorn lung is progressive and irreversible, prevention (particularly limiting exposure to harmful chemicals) is crucial.

If you have concerns about respiratory health or exposure to specific chemicals, it’s important to consult with your GP and get a referral to be assessed by a Respiratory specialist.