Popcorn lung is a rare condition that causes airway scarring due to inflammation and eventually lung damage. Popcorn lung is characterized by the lung tissue scarring and becoming narrow. This can lead to breathing problems. Popcorn lung is a rare medical condition that damages the bronchioles, the lung's smallest airways.
Breathing in harmful chemicals, particles, or toxins can lead to popcorn lung. Food-flavoring fumes produced during the manufacture of candies, potato chips, popcorn, and dairy products, are major culprits. The chemicals found in e-cigarette liquid, known as "e-juice," may be a potential cause of popcorn lung. According to the American Lung Association, using electronic cigarettes or vaping, particularly the flavored varieties, can cause popcorn lung.
While treatments exist to limit and manage symptoms, currently there is no cure for popcorn lung, and it is considered life-threatening.