Respiratory diseases are conditions that affect part or all of the respiratory tract, which is composed of the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.
The origin of respiratory diseases is very broad, and can be caused by infections, tobacco smoke, environmental pollution, substances that trigger allergic reactions, inhaled dust or chemicals, family history of respiratory problems, among others.
Respiratory diseases
Although there is a wide range of respiratory diseases, the most common include:
- Asthma: the bronchi become inflamed, narrowing the airways that carry air into the lungs.
- Lung cancer: this is the most common fatal cancer; it can be caused by smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke, as well as certain toxic substances or even a family history.
- COPD: chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, which make breathing difficult by blocking airflow; these include bronchitis and emphysema.
- Acute respiratory tract infections: caused by different microorganisms. These are the most frequent respiratory infections worldwide and range from mild common colds to pneumonia.
- Tuberculosis: an infectious disease caused by a type of bacterium that is transmitted between people through the air and affects the lungs.
Respiratory system care
To determine the correct treatment for each patient, the type of disease affecting the respiratory tract must first be diagnosed. For this, the specialist needs to perform a check-up before starting any treatment, to avoid possible complications or the use of incorrect treatments.
In some cases, treatment may be limited to painkillers, symptomatic relief, or antipyretic medications. In other cases, no treatment may be indicated, allowing the patient’s body to recover naturally.
In other cases, antibiotics may be necessary, along with other medications as prescribed by the attending physician. Steroids, bronchodilators, antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or anticholinergic agents may be indicated.
Additionally, therapeutic procedures such as inhalation therapy, which involves administering medications, humidity, or oxygen through the airways to prevent, rehabilitate, or treat conditions that affect respiratory function, are tools that the doctor will decide to incorporate for the patient’s benefit.
Respiratory disease prevention
Preventing some respiratory diseases such as bronchitis, flu, or pneumonia is possible through a complete vaccination schedule, including influenza and pneumococcal vaccines.
Another important recommendation to reduce risk factors is not to smoke and to stay away from cigarette smoke, as well as from toxic chemicals and vapors.
Washing hands regularly, especially after touching contaminated objects or surfaces and before and after contact with a sick person, helps prevent further infections.
If one lives with a person who has a respiratory disease, the areas they occupy should be regularly cleaned.
If a person has a contagious respiratory disease, they should cover their nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, use disposable tissues, and wash their hands frequently.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Department, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
Fuentes:
CDC, Secretaría de Salud, Scielo
