Lung disease refers to several types of diseases or disorders that prevent the lungs from functioning properly. Lung disease can affect respiratory function, or the ability to breathe, and pulmonary function, which is how well lungs work. There are many different lung diseases, some of which are caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Other lung diseases are associated with environmental factors, including asthma, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
Asthma is a chronic lung disease with symptoms of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. During an asthma attack, the sides of the airways in lungs swell and the airways shrink, making it harder to breathe. Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening and may require emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Asthma can reduce quality of life by contributing to emotional and physical stress and may lead to missed time from school and work
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease. Having COPD makes it hard to breathe. The most common of these diseases are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It's characterized by daily cough and mucus (sputum) production.
Emphysema is a condition in which the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) of the lungs are destroyed as a result of damaging exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating gases and particulate matter.
A lung disease primarily associated with smoking, also affects individuals exposed to respiratory irritants. This condition damages the alveoli, tiny air sacs in the lungs, leading to their weakening and eventual rupture. Consequently, the lung's capacity diminishes, impeding the oxygen flow to the bloodstream.
Symptoms may include:
-
Bronchitis
-
Fatigue
-
Depressed mood
-
Rapid heartbeat
Pulmonary hypertension is a progressive and potentially life-threatening condition; however, with proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively, enhancing quality of life. One form of pulmonary hypertension, known as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), involves the narrowing, blockage, or destruction of blood vessels within the lungs.
Other conditions that may be associated with pulmonary hypertension include:
-
Sleep Apnoea
-
Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
-
Congestive heart failure
Pneumonia, an infection of the lungs, can stem from various causes and pose a serious health threat. This condition occurs when infections lead to the filling of the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs with fluid or pus, making it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream.
Related considerations may include:
-
Contagiousness
-
Walking pneumonia
-
Potential gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea
-
Antibiotic treatment
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a severe genetic disorder characterized by significant harm to the respiratory and digestive systems. This harm typically arises due to the accumulation of dense, adhesive mucus within the organs. The blockage of the lungs by this mucus can lead to considerable breathing difficulties. Moreover, the thick mucus provides a conducive environment for the proliferation of germs, often resulting in infections, inflammation, and potentially severe lung impairment and respiratory failure
As for the list:
-
Diabetes
-
Malnutrition
-
Nasal Polyps
Lung cancer originates within the lungs and is most frequently observed in males, particularly among Black males in the U.S., who are approximately 15% more prone to its development compared to white males. While smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, it can also affect individuals who do not smoke.
As for the list:
here are a lot of fascinating opportunities for respiratory care in the future. AI, biotechnological developments, personalized medicine, and an emphasis on environmental factors can transform how we diagnose and treat respiratory diseases thoroughly. It’s critical to negotiate the ethical, legal, and financial terrain as we enter this uncharted area to ensure that these innovations result in better outcomes and a breath of fresh air for patients in need.
In the future of ICUs, Artificial Intelligence is changing the game. It’s not just a trend; it’s a big step forward for better and more precise care, making critical care even more advanced and effective.
Respiratory tract infection (RTI) is defined as any communicable disease of the upper or lower tract. Most RTIs recover without treatment, but sometimes you'll got to see your GP. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) include the common cold, laryngitis, pharyngitis/tonsillitis, acute rhinitis, acute rhino sinusitis and acute otitis media. Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) include acute bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia and trachealis.
-
Diagnosis
-
Antibiotics
-
Epidemiology
Oxygen therapy is a medical intervention aimed at supplying additional oxygen for inhalation. This can be administered through nasal tubes, a face mask, or a tracheal tube. It's typically prescribed for individuals experiencing low blood oxygen levels due to an underlying condition. The duration of oxygen therapy can vary, spanning from short-term use to extended periods, and it can be administer in hospital settings, other medical facilities, or even at home. However, it's important to be aware of the fire risk associated with oxygen, necessitating strict avoidance of smoking or flammable materials during treatment. Potential side effects may include dry or bloody nasal passages, fatigue, and morning headaches, though oxygen therapy is generally considered safe.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a supervised program that includes exercise training, health education, and breathing techniques for people who have certain lung conditions, have lung problems due to other conditions, or have had a lung transplant. Your provider may talk to you about pulmonary rehabilitation to help you breathe easier and improve your quality of life.
-
Bronchoscopy
-
Chest Tube Procedure
-
CT Scan-Guided Lung Biopsy
Thoracentesis drains excess fluid from the pleural space, aiding breathing. It's typically done in a doctor's office or hospital, lasting 10-15 minutes. Patients sit while a needle is inserted between the ribs to extract fluid. Afterward, a bandage is applied, and the fluid is analysed for diagnosis. A chest X-ray may follow to assess lung health, with possible complications like pneumothorax, pain, bleeding, bruising, or infection.
During the procedure, a surgical incision is made in the lower front neck, accessing the windpipe for tube insertion. The tube is secured in place with stitches, surgical tape, or a Velcro band. Post-tracheostomy, speech difficulties may arise, addressed with therapy to restore normal swallowing and speech functions. Once no longer needed, the breathing tube is removed, and the hole typically closes naturally or through surgical intervention if necessary.
Immediate complications may include
