Ashlung

Definition:

Ashlung is a respiratory disease caused by prolonged exposure to fine, toxic ash found in volcanic regions, scorched battlefields, and ruins touched by ancient magical fires. Unlike magical curses or infections, Ashlung is entirely physical — the inhaled ash scars lung tissue, reduces oxygen absorption, and progressively suffocates the victim from within. Those who work in dangerous, ash-heavy environments are particularly vulnerable.

Symptoms:

Persistent Dry Cough:

Victims begin coughing constantly, often producing grayish or blackened mucus.

Chest Pain and Tightness:

Sharp pains when breathing deeply; lungs feel "heavy" or constricted.

Shortness of Breath:

Even minor exertions (walking, climbing stairs) cause gasping or severe fatigue.

Hoarse Voice:

Inflammation of the throat leaves the victim’s voice rough, strained, or barely audible.

Coughing Blood:

In severe stages, blood appears in coughed-up mucus as lung tissue tears.

Progression:

Stage I – Irritation:

Minor throat dryness, coughing fits, mild breathing difficulty, especially after exposure.

Stage II – Inflammation:

Persistent cough, pain when breathing, hoarseness, decreased stamina, occasional blood traces in phlegm.

Stage III – Fibrosis and Suffocation:

Severe scarring inside the lungs prevents proper breathing. Victims suffer chronic respiratory distress and may die without treatment.

Origin and Causes:

Ashlung typically develops in volcanic regions where fresh ash clouds still linger. Battlefields devastated by fire magic, where dust and scorched remains taint the air. Old ruins where alchemical fires or cursed combustion once occurred, leaving lingering ash. Mining operations where ancient ash layers are disturbed.

Common Locations:

The Black Skies of Mount Canoth
Ash-choked ruins of Warkran
Scorched Paths of the Embermarch

Treatment and Remedies:

Juniper Steam Infusions:

Inhaling the vapors of boiling Juniper Bark and Willow's Tear Leaves soothes the lungs and helps expel ash particles.

Charcoal Ash Tonics:

A suspension of purified Charcoal Ash and elderroot syrup binds with embedded toxins, aiding their removal from the lungs.

Moonmilk Draught:

Diluted Moonmilk Paste is prepared as a drink to reduce internal inflammation and promote healing of lung tissue.

Rest and Humidified Air:

Victims must remain in clean, moist air environments. Dry air exacerbates symptoms.

White Orchid Extracts:

White Orchid Petal teas calm coughing fits and reduce lung irritation.

Prevention:

Wear damp cloths or alchemical breathing masks when traveling through ash-heavy regions.
Avoid disturbing old ash layers unnecessarily.
Rinse mouth and throat with purified water immediately after exposure.
Take preventative herbal tonics made with Juniper and Silverthorn when frequenting dangerous zones.

Type

Chemical Compound