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Diseases & Conditions- Adult Health Library
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Respiratory Disorders
Acute Bronchitis
Acute Bronchitis Click Image to Enlarge What is acute bronchitis? Bronchitis is an inflammation of the breathing tubes (airways) that are called bronchi, which causes increased production of mucus and other changes. Although there are several different types of bronchitis, the two most common are acute and chronic. What causes acute bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is usually caused by infectious agents such as bacteria or viruses. It may also be caused by physical or chemical agents--dusts, allergens, and ...
Anatomy of the Respiratory System
Anatomy of the Respiratory System What is respiration? Respiration is the act of breathing: Inhaling (inspiration). The act of breathing in oxygen. Exhaling (expiration). The act of breathing out carbon dioxide. What makes up the respiratory system? Respiratory System - Click to Enlarge The respiratory system is made up of the organs involved in the exchange of gases, and consists of the: Nose Mouth (oral cavity) Pharynx (throat) Larynx (voice box) Trachea (windpipe) Bronchi Lungs The upper respiratory ...
Asthma
Asthma Click Image to Enlarge What is asthma? Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory lung disease involving recurrent breathing problems. The characteristics of asthma are three airway problems: Obstruction Inflammation Hyperresponsiveness What are the symptoms of asthma? Common symptoms of asthma are listed below. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. In some cases, the only symptom is a chronic cough, especially at night, or tightness, coughing, noisy breathing, or wheezing. Some pe...
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic Bronchitis Respiratory System - Click to Enlarge What is chronic bronchitis? Chronic bronchitis means long-term inflammation of the bronchi, which results in increased production of mucus, as well as other changes. To be classified as chronic bronchitis: Cough and expectoration must occur most days for at least three months per year, for two years in a row. Other causes of symptoms, such as tuberculosis or other lung diseases, must be excluded. What are the symptoms of chronic bronchitis? The fo...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) Several types of lung diseases or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Asthma Chronic Bronchitis Pulmonary Emphysema
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis Click Image to Enlarge What is cystic fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease characterized by an abnormality in the glands that produce sweat and mucus. Due to improved treatments, people with CF, on average, live into their mid to late 30s. Cystic fibrosis affects various organ systems in children and young adults, including the following: Respiratory system Digestive system Reproductive system There are about 30,000 people in the U.S. who are affected with cystic fibros...
Glossary - Respiratory Disorders
Glossary - Respiratory Disorders | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [return to top] Alveolus - air sac where gas exchange takes place. Angina - chest pain. Aorta - blood vessel that delivers oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle to the body; it is the largest blood vessel in the body. Apex - top portion of the upper lobes of the lungs. Atrium - one of the two receiving chambers ...
Home Page - Respiratory Disorders
Topic Index Anatomy of the Respiratory System Signs of Respiratory Distress Spirometers Inhalers and Nebulizers Upper Respiratory Infections Lung Diseases and Disorders Lung Cancer Pulmonary Rehabilitation Sleep Problems Glossary Respiratory disorders, or lung diseases, are disorders like asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. According to the American Lung Association, almost 400,000 people die from lung disease each year. Lung disease is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. Lung dis...
Influenza (Flu)
Influenza (Flu) What is influenza (flu)? Influenza (or flu) is a highly contagious viral respiratory tract infection. An estimated 5 to 20 percent of people in the U.S. get influenza each year. Influenza is characterized by the abrupt onset of fever, muscle aches, sore throat, and a nonproductive cough. Influenza can make people of any age ill. Although most people are ill with influenza for only a few days, some have a much more serious illness and may need to be hospitalized. Influenza can also lead t...
Inhalers and Nebulizers
Inhalers and Nebulizers Several types of inhalation devices, or inhalers, are used in the treatment of asthma and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, such as emphysema. Inhalers are often effective in delivering medication directly to the lungs with fewer side effects than medication taken by mouth or injection. There are several types of inhalers. The type of inhaler will vary, depending on your medical history, preference, and the severity and frequency of your symptoms. Inhalers can contain...
Insomnia
Insomnia What is insomnia? If you experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or enjoying a restful night's sleep, you may be suffering from insomnia. Insomnia is defined as the perception or complaint of inadequate or poor-quality sleep because of one or more of the following: Difficulty falling asleep Waking up frequently during the night with difficulty returning to sleep Waking up too early in the morning Nonrefreshing sleep Insomnia is a common symptom in the U.S. The Institute of Medicin...
Interstitial Lung Disease (Pulmonary Fibrosis)
Interstitial Lung Disease (Pulmonary Fibrosis) Click Image to Enlarge What are interstitial lung diseases? Interstitial lung disease, or ILD, is a common term that includes more than 100 chronic lung disorders, which may be: Nonmalignant (noncancerous) Noninfectious Interstitial lung diseases are named after the tissue between the air sacs of the lungs called the interstitium--the tissue affected by fibrosis (scarring). Interstitial lung diseases may also be called interstitial pulmonary fibrosis or pul...
Lung Cancer
Lung Cancer Respiratory System - Click to Enlarge What is lung cancer? Lung cancer is cancer that usually starts in the lining of the bronchi (the main airways of the lungs), but can also begin in other areas of the lungs, including the bronchioles, or alveoli. It is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. In 2012, about 226,120 new cases of lung cancer are expected, according to the American Cancer Society. Lung cancers are believed to develop over a period of many years. Nearly all lu...
Lung Disorders and Diseases
Lung Disorders and Diseases Many types of lung problems require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Signs of Respiratory Distress Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) Asthma Chronic Bronchitis Pulmonary Emphysema Acute Bronchitis Cystic Fibrosis Interstitial Lung Diseases / Pulmonary Fibrosis Occupational Lung Diseases Pneumonia Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Pulmon...
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy What is narcolepsy? Narcolepsy is a chronic, neurological sleep disorder with no known cause. It involves the body's central nervous system. Narcolepsy is a genetic disorder, and is caused by a deficiency in the production of a neuropeptide called orexin by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus . The main characteristic of narcolepsy is excessive and overwhelming daytime sleepiness, even after adequate nighttime sleep. A person with narcolepsy is likely to become drowsy or to fall aslee...
Occupational Lung Diseases
Occupational Lung Diseases What are occupational lung diseases? Repeated and long-term exposure to certain irritants on the job can lead to an array of lung diseases that may have lasting effects, even after exposure ceases. Certain occupations, because of the nature of their location, work, and environment, are more at risk for occupational lung diseases than others. Contrary to a popular misconception, coal miners are not the only ones at risk for occupational lung diseases. For instance, working in a...
Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders
Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your health care provider. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page...
Overview of Sleep Problems
Overview of Sleep Problems Why is sleep important? Sleep is not just resting or taking a break from busy routines. It is essential to physical and emotional health. Adequate sleep may also play a role in helping the body recover from illness and injury. Inadequate sleep over a period of time is associated with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression. But, the emotional and mental benefits of sleep are also significant. Even occasional sleep problems can make daily life feel more stressful and l...
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis
Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis Click Image to Enlarge What are pharyngitis and tonsillitis? Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are infections in the throat that cause inflammation. If the tonsils are primarily affected, it is called tonsillitis. If the throat is primarily affected, it is called pharyngitis. A person might even have inflammation and infection of both the tonsils and the throat. This would be called pharyngotonsillitis. These infections are spread by close contact with other individuals. The majori...
Pneumonia
Pneumonia Respiratory System - Click to Enlarge What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection of one or both of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or chemical irritants. It is a serious infection or inflammation in which the air sacs fill with pus and other liquid. Lobar pneumonia affects one or more sections (lobes) of the lungs. Bronchial pneumonia (also known as bronchopneumonia) affects patches throughout both lungs. What are the different types of pneumonia? The main types of pneumonia ar...
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension What is primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH)? Pulmonary hypertension is a lung disorder in which the blood pressure in the pulmonary artery rises far above normal levels. Primary pulmonary hypertension has been associated with the appetite suppressants fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine (fen/phen), which were taken off the market in 1997. In the U.S., there are an estimated 500 to 1,000 new cases diagnosed each year, but the actual number of cases is unknown. It is most comm...
Pulmonary Embolism
Pulmonary Embolism What is a pulmonary embolism? A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that develops in a blood vessel elsewhere in the body (most commonly from the leg), travels to an artery in the lung, and forms an occlusion (blockage) of the artery. A blood clot (thrombus) that forms in a blood vessel in one area of the body, breaks off, and travels to another area of the body through the bloodstream is called an embolus. An embolus can lodge itself in a blood vessel, blocking the blood supply t...
Pulmonary Emphysema
Pulmonary Emphysema Healthy Bronchiole and Alveoli - Click to Enlarge What is pulmonary emphysema? Emphysema is a chronic lung condition in which the alveoli, or air sacs, may be: Destroyed Narrowed Collapsed Stretched Overinflated Overinflation of the air sacs is a result of a breakdown of the walls of the alveoli. It causes a decrease in respiratory function and breathlessness. Damage due to Emphysema - Click to Enlarge Damage to the air sacs is irreversible and results in permanent "holes" in the tis...
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary Rehabilitation What is pulmonary rehabilitation? Pulmonary rehabilitation is a doctor-supervised program for people who have chronic lung diseases, such as emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, asthma, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, (such as cystic fibrosis or sarcoidosis), thoracic cage abnormalities, neuromuscular diseases, or lung tumors. The program is also often used before and after lung surgery. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can often i...
Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Click Image to Enlarge What is sarcoidosis? Sarcoidosis is a rare disease that results from inflammation. Currently, the cause is unknown. It usually develops between 20 and 40 years of age. Almost 90 percent of the cases of sarcoidosis are found in the lungs and lymph nodes, but it can occur in almost any organ. It causes small lumps, or granulomas, which generally heal and disappear on their own. However, for those granulomas that do not heal, the tissue can remain inflamed and b...
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) What is RLS? Restless legs syndrome is a sleep disorder in which a person experiences unpleasant sensations in the legs, which are described as: Creeping Crawling Tingling Pulling Painful These sensations usually occur in the calf area, but may be felt anywhere from the thigh to the ankle. One or both legs may be affected. For some people, the sensations are also felt in the arms. People with RLS have an irresistible urge to move the affected limb when the sensations occur. ...
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Click Image to Enlarge What is SARS? Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a rapidly spreading, potentially fatal infectious viral disease. According to the CDC, SARS was recognized as a global threat in March 2003. The viral disease first appeared in Southern China in November 2002 and spread to more than 24 countries in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America. By the spring of 2004, the outbreak appeared to be over. Although they were dealing with ...
Signs of Respiratory Distress
Signs of Respiratory Distress Learning the signs of respiratory distress People having difficulty breathing often show signs that they are not getting enough oxygen, indicating respiratory distress. Below is a list of some of the signs that may indicate that a person is not getting enough oxygen. It is important to learn the symptoms of respiratory distress to know how to respond appropriately. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis. Breathing rate. An increase in the number of breaths per minute ma...
Sinusitis
Sinusitis What are sinuses? Click Image to Enlarge The sinuses are cavities, or air-filled pockets, that are near the nasal passage. The sinuses make mucus, which is a fluid that cleans the bacteria and other particles out of the air we breathe. There are four different types of sinuses: Ethmoid sinus. Located inside the face, around the area of the bridge of the nose, it is is present at birth and continues to grow. Maxillary sinus. Located inside the face, around the area of the cheeks, it is also pre...
Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea What is sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that is far more common than generally understood. Sleep apnea occurs in all age groups and both genders. It is more common in men, although it may be underdiagnosed in women and young African-Americans. It is estimated that as many as 18 million Americans have sleep apnea. Early recognition and treatment of sleep apnea is important, as it may be associated with: Irregular heartbeat High blood pressure Hear...
Sleep Problems
Sleep Problems Several types of sleep problems require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of these conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Overview of Sleep Problems Insomnia Sleep Apnea Narcolepsy Restless Legs Syndrome
Smoking and Respiratory Diseases
Smoking and Respiratory Diseases Facts about smoking and respiratory diseases According to the CDC, diseases caused by smoking kill more than 443,000 people in the U.S. each year. In fact, smoking is directly responsible for almost 90 percent of lung cancer and COPD deaths. Even with antismoking campaigns and medical health disclaimers in place, many people continue to smoke or start to smoke every year. A 2009 survey by the CDC reported that more than 25 percent of high school kids were current tobacco...
Spirometers
Spirometers What is a spirometer? A spirometer is a device used by your doctor that assesses lung function. Click to Enlarge Spirometry, the evaluation of lung function with a spirometer, is one of the simplest, most common pulmonary function tests and may be necessary for any or all of the following reasons: To determine how well the lungs receive, hold, and utilize air To monitor a lung disease To monitor the effectiveness of treatment To determine the severity of a lung disease To determine whether t...
Topic Index - Respiratory Disorders
Topic Index - Respiratory Disorders Respiratory Disorders Home Anatomy of the Respiratory System Signs of Respiratory Distress Spirometers Inhalers and Nebulizers Upper Respiratory Infections Common Cold Influenza Pharyngitis / Tonsillitis Sinusitis Lung Diseases and Disorders Signs of Respiratory Distress Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) Asthma Chronic Bronchitis Pulmonary Emphysema Acute Bronchitis Cystic Fibrosis Interstitial Lung Diseases / Pulmonary Fibrosis Occupational Lung Diseases ...
Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) Click Image to Enlarge What is tuberculosis? Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic bacterial infection that usually infects the lungs, although other organs such as the kidneys, spine, or brain are sometimes involved. TB is primarily an airborne disease. There is a difference between being infected with the TB bacterium and having active tuberculosis disease. There are three important ways to describe the stages of TB. They are as follows: Exposure. This occurs when a person has been in conta...
Upper Respiratory Infections
Upper Respiratory Infections Several upper respiratory infections require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Common Cold Influenza Pharyngitis / Tonsillitis Sinusitis
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