It is possible to survive and lead a fulfilling life with only one lung. The human body adapts remarkably to significant physiological changes, such as lung removal. While two lungs are ideal for optimal respiratory function, the remaining lung can often compensate to meet the body’s oxygen needs.
How the Body Adapts
When one lung is removed, the remaining lung compensates. This involves the single lung expanding to occupy some of the empty space. This expansion increases the surface area for gas exchange, allowing the body to take in more oxygen and expel carbon dioxide more efficiently.
The body also becomes more adept at extracting oxygen from each breath. The cardiovascular system adjusts heart rate and circulation to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, even with reduced lung capacity. While total lung capacity diminishes, often by 30% to 50%, the remaining lung’s enhanced efficiency helps maintain sufficient oxygen levels for daily activities. The space where the lung was removed gradually fills with sterile fluid, which helps stabilize surrounding structures.
Common Reasons for a Single Lung
The most frequent reason for having only one lung is a pneumonectomy, a surgical procedure involving the removal of an entire lung. Lung cancer is the most common indication for this surgery, especially when a tumor is large, centrally located, or cannot be fully removed with less extensive procedures.
Beyond cancer, other medical conditions can necessitate a pneumonectomy. Severe and chronic infections, like advanced pulmonary tuberculosis or certain fungal infections, can cause irreparable lung tissue damage. Traumatic chest injuries can also result in lung damage severe enough to require removal. In rare instances, individuals may be born with only one lung, a congenital condition known as pulmonary agenesis.
Daily Life and Physical Capacity
Living with a single lung allows individuals to maintain a normal daily life, though adjustments may be necessary. While the remaining lung adapts, overall lung capacity is reduced, often to 50% to 70% of what it was with two lungs. This reduction can lead to increased shortness of breath, particularly during strenuous physical activity like climbing stairs or vigorous exercise.
Despite these limitations, many individuals can still engage in various activities, including walking, light jogging, cycling, and gentle swimming, by pacing themselves and taking breaks. Fatigue may also be experienced more quickly. Individual differences are important, as limitations vary based on overall health, the reason for lung removal, and the health of the remaining lung.
Ongoing Health Management
Continuous medical care and lifestyle adjustments are important for individuals living with one lung to optimize long-term health. Regular check-ups with a pulmonologist, a doctor specializing in the respiratory system, are recommended to monitor lung function and address concerns. Healthcare providers will monitor for potential complications like respiratory infections, which can be more severe with reduced lung capacity, and any strain on the heart.
Lifestyle recommendations include avoiding smoking to protect the remaining lung, managing other health conditions like asthma or COPD, and engaging in pulmonary rehabilitation. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can help improve lung function, endurance, and overall well-being through tailored exercises and breathing techniques. Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in regular, moderate activity also supports the remaining lung’s function.