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Sleep Study
Sleep Study (polysomnogram) Procedure Overview What is a sleep study? Sleep is a state of relative unconsciousness and stillness of the voluntary muscles (muscles that are controlled at will). The stages of sleep range from light to deep and each one has specific characteristics that can be measured. A sleep study consists of a number of medical tests performed at the same time during sleep. The tests measure specific sleep characteristics and help to diagnose sleep disorders. A sleep study may also be ...
Bronchography
Bronchography (Bronchogram, Laryngography) Procedure Overview What is bronchography? A bronchography is a radiographic (x-ray) examination of the interior passageways of the lower respiratory tract. The structures of the lower respiratory tract, which include the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and bronchi (larger branching airways to the lungs), become visible on x-ray film after contrast dye is instilled through either a catheter or bronchoscope (narrow, flexible, lighted tube) into these area...
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy (Flexible Bronchoscopy, Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy, FOB, Rigid Bronchoscopy) Procedure Overview What is bronchoscopy? Bronchoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to directly visualize the interior passageways of the lower respiratory tract through a bronchoscope (a long, narrow, fiberoptic, lighted tube inserted through the nose or mouth). With the bronchoscope, the physician can see the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), bronchi (large airways to the lungs), and bronchioles (sm...
Chest Fluoroscopy
Chest Fluoroscopy Procedure Overview What is chest fluoroscopy? Chest fluoroscopy is a type of x-ray procedure used to assess the motion and function of the lungs and other structures of the respiratory tract. Fluoroscopy is a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie." A continuous x-ray beam is passed through the body part being examined. The beam is transmitted to a TV-like monitor so that the body part and its motion can be seen in detail. Fluoroscopy, as an imaging tool, enables ...
Chest Ultrasound
Chest Ultrasound (Chest Ultrasonography, Chest Wall Ultrasonography, Chest Sonography) Procedure Overview What is a chest ultrasound? A chest ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the organs and structures within the chest, such as the lungs, mediastinum (area in the chest containing the heart, aorta, trachea, esophagus, thymus, and lymph nodes), and pleural space (space between the lungs and the interior wall of the chest). Ultrasound technology allows quick vis...
Chest X-ray
Chest X-ray (Chest Radiography, CXR) Procedure Overview What is a chest x-ray? A chest x-ray is a type of diagnostic radiology procedure used to examine the chest and the organs and structures located in the chest. Chest x-rays may be used to assess the lungs, as well as the heart (either directly or indirectly) by looking at the heart itself. Certain conditions of the heart may cause changes in the lungs and/or the vessels of the lungs. Changes in the normal structure of the heart, lungs, and/or lung v...
Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Chest
Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan of the Chest (Chest CT Scan, Thoracic CT Scan, CT of the Thorax) Procedure Overview Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standa...
Lobectomy
Lobectomy (Thoracotomy, Thoracoscopic Lobectomy, Removal of a Lobe of the Lungs, Lung Surgery) Procedure Overview What is a lobectomy? A lobectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove one of the lobes of the lungs. The procedure may be performed when an abnormality has been detected in a specific part of the lung. When only the affected lobe of the lung is removed, the remaining healthy tissue is spared to maintain adequate lung function. A lobectomy is most often performed during a surgical proc...
Lung Biopsy
Lung Biopsy (Biopsy-Lung, Closed Lung Biopsy, Transthoracic Needle Lung Biopsy, Percutaneous Needle Lung Biopsy, Transbronchial Lung Biopsy, Pulmonary Biopsy, Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery, VATS) Procedure Overview What is a lung biopsy? A biopsy is a procedure performed to remove tissue or cells from the body for examination under a microscope. A lung biopsy is a procedure in which samples of lung tissue are removed (with a special biopsy needle or during surgery) to determine if lung disease or canc...
Lung Scan
Lung Scan (Perfusion Lung Scan, Lung Perfusion Scintigraphy, Radionuclide Pulmonary Scan, Ventilation-Perfusion Scan, V/Q Scan) Procedure Overview What is a lung scan? A lung scan is a specialized radiology procedure used to examine the lungs to identify certain conditions. A lung scan may also be used to follow the progress of treatment of certain conditions. A lung scan is a type of nuclear radiology procedure. This means that a tiny amount of a radioactive substance is used during the procedure to as...
Lung Transplantation Procedure
Lung Transplantation Procedure (Transplant-Lung, Lung Transplant, Lung Graft) Procedure Overview What is a lung transplant? A lung transplant is a surgical procedure performed to remove one or both diseased lungs from a patient and replace it with a healthy one from another person. The majority of lungs that are transplanted come from deceased organ donors. This type of transplant is called a cadaveric transplant. Healthy, non-smoking adults who make a good match may be able to donate a part (a lobe) of...
Mediastinoscopy
Mediastinoscopy Procedure Overview What is a mediastinoscopy? A mediastinoscopy is a surgical procedure performed to examine the mediastinum. The mediastinum is the space behind the sternum (breastbone) in the middle of the chest that separates the two lungs. It contains lymph nodes, the heart and its great vessels, the trachea, the esophagus, and the thymus gland. The mediastinum can be visualized by the use of an endoscopic instrument called a mediastinoscope. A mediastinoscope is a lighted, long, thi...
Oximetry
Oximetry (Oxygen Saturation, Oximetry, Ear Oximetry, Pulse Ox, Sp0 2 ) Procedure Overview What is pulse oximetry? Pulse oximetry is a procedure used to measure the oxygen level (or oxygen saturation) in the blood. It is considered to be a noninvasive, painless, general indicator of oxygen delivery to the tissues (e.g., finger, earlobe, or nose). How does pulse oximetry work? Oxygen in the air is breathed into the lungs. The oxygen then passes into the blood where the majority of the oxygen attaches to h...
Peak Flow Measurement
Peak Flow Measurement (Peak Flow Meter, PFM, Peak Expiratory Flow Measurement) Procedure Overview What is peak flow measurement? Peak flow measurement is a procedure in which air flowing out of the lungs is measured. The measurement obtained is called the peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), or peak expiratory flow (PEF). Peak flow measurement may be obtained using a spirometer, an instrument with a mouth piece that measures the amount of air breathed in and/or out and the rate at which the air is inhaled ...
Pleural Biopsy
Pleural Biopsy (Biopsy-Pleural, Percutaneous Pleural Biopsy) Procedure Overview What is a pleural biopsy? A biopsy is a procedure performed to remove tissue or cells from the body for examination under a microscope. A pleural biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of the pleura (the membrane that surrounds the lungs) is removed with a special biopsy needle or during surgery to determine if disease, infection, or cancer is present. There are three types of pleural biopsies: needle biopsy - After a local...
Pulmonary Angiogram
Pulmonary Angiogram (Angiogram-Pulmonary, Pulmonary Angiography, Pulmonary Arteriogram, Pulmonary Arteriography, Angiogram of the Lungs) Procedure Overview What is a pulmonary angiogram? An angiogram, also called an arteriogram, is an x-ray image of the blood vessels. It is performed to evaluate various vascular conditions, such as an aneurysm (ballooning of a blood vessel), stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel), or blockages. A pulmonary angiogram is an angiogram of the blood vessels of the lungs. A p...
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs, Pulmonary Function Studies, Lung Function Studies/Tests, Airflow Assessment) Procedure Overview What are pulmonary function tests? Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are noninvasive diagnostic tests that provide measurable feedback about the function of the lungs. By assessing lung volumes, capacities, rates of flow, and gas exchange, PFTs provide information that, when evaluated by your physician, can help diagnosis certain lung disorders. A normally-functioning pulmonary s...
Sinus X-ray
Sinus X-ray (Sinus Films) Procedure Overview What is a sinus x-ray? A sinus x-ray is a type of x-ray used to obtain images of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities lined with mucous membranes located within the bones of the skull. During a sinus x-ray, x-rays pass through the sinuses and form an image on a special type of film. The sinuses are usually filled with air, which appears black on x-ray film. An opaque (whitened) area on an otherwise normal film may indicate the presence of sinusiti...
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis (Pleural Tap, Pleural Fluid Analysis) Procedure Overview What is thoracentesis and pleural fluid analysis? Thoracentesis is a procedure in which a needle is inserted through the back of the chest wall into the pleural space (a space that exists between the two lungs and the interior chest wall) to remove fluid or air. Pleural fluid analysis is the microscopic and chemical lab analysis of the fluid obtained during thoracentesis. The normal function of the lungs is to expand with each breath...
Cystic Fibrosis Overview
Cystic Fibrosis Overview What is cystic fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease characterized by an abnormality in the body's salt, water- and mucus-making cells. It is chronic, progressive, and is usually fatal. In general, children with CF live into their 30s. Children with CF have an abnormality in the function of a cell protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). CFTR controls the flow of water and certain salts in and out of the body's cells. As the movement of...
The Lungs
The Lungs To learn more about the intricate process of lung transplantation, it is important to first learn about the lungs and their components. Listed in the directory below you will find additional information regarding the anatomy of the lung and lung transplantation, for which we have provided a brief overview. Anatomy and Function of the Respiratory System Lung Transplantation
Acute Bronchitis in Children
Acute Bronchitis in Children Click Image to Enlarge What is bronchitis? Bronchitis is an inflammation of the large 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 (primarily affects adults). What is acute bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is the inflammation of mucous membranes of the bronchial tubes. What causes acute bronchitis? Acute bronchiti...
Acute Respiratory Disorders
Acute Respiratory Disorders Acute respiratory disorders either affect the upper or lower respiratory systems and require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Upper Respiratory Disorders Lower Respiratory Disorders
Anatomy of the Respiratory System in Children
Anatomy of the Respiratory System in Children Click Image to Enlarge What is respiration? Respiration is the act of breathing: inhaling (inspiration) - taking in oxygen. exhaling (expiration) - giving off carbon dioxide. What makes up the respiratory system? The respiratory system is made up of the organs involved in the interchanges of gases and consists of the: nose mouth (oral cavity) pharynx (throat) larynx (voice box) trachea (windpipe) bronchi lungs The upper respiratory tract includes the followi...
Apnea of Prematurity
Apnea of Prematurity What is apnea of prematurity? Apnea is a term for the absence of breathing for more than 20 seconds. It can occur in full-term babies, but is more common in premature babies. The more premature the baby, the greater the chances that apnea will occur. Apnea may be followed by bradycardia - a decreased heart rate. When breathing slows, the heart rate also slows. A common term for apnea with bradycardia is "As and Bs." What causes apnea of prematurity? Apnea of prematurity may be due t...
Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis Click Image to Enlarge What is bronchiolitis? Bronchiolitis is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that usually affects infants. There is swelling in the smaller airways or bronchioles of the lung, which causes obstruction of air in the smaller airways. What causes bronchiolitis? The most common cause of bronchiolitis is a virus, most frequently the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, many other viruses have been involved, including: parainfluenza virus adenovirus influenza...
Chronic Lung Disease (Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia)
Chronic Lung Disease (Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia) What is chronic lung disease? Chronic lung disease (CLD) is a general term for long-term respiratory problems in premature babies. It is also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). What causes chronic lung disease? CLD results from lung injury to newborns who must use a mechanical ventilator and extra oxygen for breathing. The lungs of premature babies are fragile and are easily damaged. With injury, the tissues inside the lungs become inflamed and c...
Chronic Respiratory Disorders
Chronic Respiratory Disorders There are many chronic respiratory disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Tuberculosis Asthma Cystic Fibrosis Chronic Lung Disease (Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia) Lung Transplants
Croup
Croup What is croup? Croup is a disease caused by a virus, bacteria, allergies, and inhaled irritants that leads to swelling in the airways and problems breathing. A child may have stridor, a high-pitched sound usually heard when the child breathes in (inspiration). What causes croup? Croup is caused by a variety of different viruses. The most common virus is the parainfluenza virus. Other viruses may include: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) influenza virus measles adenovirus enteroviruses A child bec...
Cystic Fibrosis and the Digestive System
Cystic Fibrosis and the Digestive System How does CF affect the digestive system? Children with CF have an abnormality in the function of a cell protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). CFTR controls the flow of water and certain salts in and out of the body's cells. As the movement of salt and water in and out of cells is altered, mucus becomes thickened. In the digestive system, CF mainly affects the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ that secretes substances which aid in dig...
Cystic Fibrosis and the Reproductive System
Cystic Fibrosis and the Reproductive System How does CF affect the reproductive system? Children with CF have an abnormality in the function of a cell protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). CFTR controls the flow of water and certain salts in and out of the body's cells. As the movement of salt and water in and out of cells is altered, mucus becomes thickened. In the reproductive system, the thickened secretions can cause obstructions and affect the development and function o...
Cystic Fibrosis and the Respiratory System
Cystic Fibrosis and the Respiratory System How does cystic fibrosis (CF) affect the respiratory system? Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease characterized by an abnormality in the body's mucus glands. It is chronic, progressive, and is usually fatal. Due to improved treatments, people with CF, on average, live into their mid to late 30s. Children with CF have an abnormality in the function of a cell protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). CFTR controls the flow of wate...
Cystic Fibrosis in Children
Cystic Fibrosis in Children Cystic fibrosis is a complicated illness that requires clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below you will find additional information about cystic fibrosis, for which we have provided a brief overview. Multidisciplinary teams organized into CF centers are recommended for care of CF and have been shown to result in less illness and longer lives for CF patients. Cystic Fibrosis Overview Genetics of Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibros...
Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis
Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis How is cystic fibrosis diagnosed? In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for cystic fibrosis may include the following: sweat (chloride) test - a test to measure the amount of chloride in the sweat. The test is performed by placing a solution on the forearm (or the thigh if the child is too small) and attaching electrodes. The skin is stimulated to sweat with a mild electric current, which does not cause pain or harm your ch...
Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis What is epiglottitis? Epiglottitis is an acute life-threatening bacterial or viral infection that results in swelling and inflammation of the epiglottis. The epiglottis is an elastic cartilage structure at the root of the tongue that prevents food from entering the windpipe (trachea) when swallowing. This causes breathing problems, including stridor, that can progressively worsen and may, ultimately, lead to airway obstruction. There is so much swelling that air cannot get in or out of the ...
Feeding Your Child With Cystic Fibrosis
Feeding Your Child With Cystic Fibrosis How many calories does my child need? Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) often have trouble consuming enough calories to grow or gain weight. Infections, breathing problems, and malabsorption can all contribute to increased calorie needs. The diet for children with CF should be high in calories. If your child consumes the extra calories he/she needs then he/she should grow and develop normally. Children should eat three meals and two to three snacks a day to help ...
Home Page - Respiratory Disorders in Children
Topic Index Anatomy of the Respiratory System Signs of Respiratory Distress Obstructive Sleep Apnea Acute Respiratory Disorders Chronic Respiratory Disorders Glossary Respiratory illnesses can include a variety of problems, including colds, flu, runny noses, coughs, and sore throats. Some children may also have chronic illnesses that affect the breathing system, including asthma and cystic fibrosis (CF). Nearly 30,000 people in the US are currently affected by CF, and about 1,000 new cases are diagnosed...
Lower Respiratory Disorders
Lower Respiratory Disorders There are many different lower respiratory disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Acute Bronchitis Bronchiolitis Pneumonia Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Lung Transplantation
Lung Transplantation What is a lung transplant? A lung transplant is a surgical procedure performed to remove one or both diseased lungs from a patient and replace it with a healthy one from another person. The majority of lungs that are transplanted come from deceased organ donors. This type of transplant is called a cadaveric transplant. Healthy, non-smoking adults who make a good match may be able to donate a part (a lobe) of one of their lungs. This type of transplant is called a living transplant. ...
Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders in Children
Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders in Children 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 child's physician. 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 child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your child's condit...
Pediatric Glossary - Respiratory Disorders
Pediatric 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 [back to top] adenoids - two pieces of tissue located behind the nose that often become enlarged in childhood. This can lead to problems with breathing. alveolus - air sac where gas exchange takes place. anti-inflammatory drugs - drugs that reduce the symptoms and signs of inflammation. aorta - blood vesse...
Pneumonia in Children
Pneumonia in Children What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, 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 (or bronchopneumonia) - affects patches throughout both lungs. Click Image to Enlarge Facts about pneumonia: Pneumonia can occur year round, but is usually seen in the fall, winter, and ea...
Signs of Respiratory Distress in Children
Signs of Respiratory Distress in Children Learning the signs of respiratory distress: Children 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 your child is not getting enough oxygen. It is important to learn the signs of respiratory distress to know how to respond appropriately. breathing rate An increase in the number of breaths per minute may indicate that a person is hav...
Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis
Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis What are the symptoms of cystic fibrosis? The following are the most common symptoms for cystic fibrosis. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: abnormalities in the glands that produce sweat and mucus This may cause a loss of salt. A loss of salt may cause an upset in the balance of minerals in the blood, abnormal heart rhythms, and, possibly, shock. thick mucus that accumulates in the lungs and intestines This may cause malnutrition, ...
The Genetics of Cystic Fibrosis
The Genetics of Cystic Fibrosis Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease. This means that CF is inherited. A child will be born with CF only if two CF genes are inherited - one from the mother and one from the father. A person who has only one CF gene is healthy and said to be a "carrier" of the disease. A carrier has an increased chance of having a child with CF. This type of inheritance is called "autosomal recessive." Autosomal means that the gene is on one of the first 22 pairs of chromosomes which...
Topic Index - Respiratory Disorders in Children
Topic Index - Respiratory Disorders in Children Respiratory Disorders Home Anatomy of the Respiratory System Signs of Respiratory Distress Apnea of Prematurity Obstructive Sleep Apnea Acute Respiratory Disorders Upper Respiratory Disorders Upper Respiratory Infection (URI, or Common Cold) Sinusitis Allergic Rhinitis Stridor Congenital Laryngeal Stridor / Laryngomalacia Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis Influenza (Flu) Epiglottitis Whooping Cough (Pertussis) Croup Lower Respiratory Disorders Acute Bronchitis Bronc...
Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis
Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis Treatment for cystic fibrosis (CF): Specific treatment for cystic fibrosis (CF) will be determined by your child's physician based on: your child's age, overall health, and medical history extent of the disease (body systems affected) expectations for the course of the disease your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies your opinion or preference At the present time, there is no cure for CF. However, research in gene therapy is being performed. ...
Upper Respiratory Disorders
Upper Respiratory Disorders The upper respiratory tract includes the: nose nasal cavity sinuses ethmoid frontal maxillary sphenoid mouth larynx trachea The functions of the upper respiratory tract are to move air to and from the lungs, and to filter, moisten, and warm the air. There are many different upper respiratory disorders that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview...
Upper Respiratory Infection (URI, or Common Cold)
Upper Respiratory Infection (URI, or Common Cold) What is an upper respiratory infection (URI)? An upper respiratory infection (URI), also known as the common cold, is one of the most common illnesses, leading to more doctor visits and absences from school and work than any other illness every year. It is estimated that during a one-year period, people in the US will suffer one billion colds. Caused by a virus that inflames the membranes in the lining of the nose and throat, colds can be the result of m...
Hyaline Membrane Disease / Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Hyaline Membrane Disease / Respiratory Distress Syndrome What is hyaline membrane disease? Hyaline membrane disease (HMD), more commonly called respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), is one of the most common problems of premature babies. It can cause babies to need extra oxygen and help breathing. The course of illness with hyaline membrane disease depends on the size and gestational age of the baby, the severity of the disease, the presence of infection, whether or not a baby has a patent ductus arterio...
Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax What is pneumothorax? Pneumothorax is a lung disorder in which air in the lungs leaks out through holes in the lung tissue into the spaces outside the lung airways. Pneumothorax is one type of lung disorders called air leak syndrome. A baby can have more than one form of air leak. Types of air leaks include the following: pneumothorax - air leaks into the space between the chest wall and the outer tissues of the lungs. pneumomediastinum - air leaks into the mediastinum (the space in the tho...
Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory Disorders There are many respiratory disorders that place a newborn at higher risk and require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. The Respiratory System in Babies Hyaline Membrane Disease / Respiratory Distress Syndrome Pneumothorax Chronic Lung Disease Meconium Aspiration Apnea of Prematurity Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) What is respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the lower airways) and pneumonia in babies. It is an illness that often occurs in yearly outbreaks in communities, school classrooms, and daycare centers. In the United States, RSV is more common in winter and spring months. What causes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? RSV is spread from respiratory secretions through close contact with infected persons or contact...
The Respiratory System in Babies
The Respiratory System in Babies Click Image to Enlarge What is respiration? Respiration is the act of breathing: inhaling (inspiration) - taking in oxygen exhaling (expiration) - giving off carbon dioxide What makes up the respiratory system? The respiratory system is made up of the organs involved in the interchanges of gases and consists of the: nose mouth (oral cavity) pharynx (throat) larynx (voice box) trachea (windpipe) bronchi lungs The upper respiratory tract includes the: nose nasal cavity eth...
Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn
Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn What is transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN)? Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a term for a mild respiratory problem of babies that begins after birth and lasts about three days. Other terms for TTN are "wet lungs" or type II respiratory distress syndrome. "transient" means temporary "tachypnea" means fast breathing rate What causes transient tachypnea of the newborn? It is thought that slow absorption of the fluid in the fetal lungs causes TTN. This flu...
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. Acute bronchitis is the inflammation of mucous membranes of the bronchial tubes. What causes acute bronchitis? Acute bronchitis is usually caused by infectious agents such as bacteria or viru...
Anatomy of the Respiratory System
Anatomy of the Respiratory System Click Image to Enlarge What is respiration? Respiration is the act of breathing: inhaling (inspiration) - taking in oxygen exhaling (expiration) - giving off carbon dioxide What makes up the respiratory system? The respiratory system is made up of the organs involved in the interchanges of gases, and consists of the: nose mouth (oral cavity) pharynx (throat) larynx (voice box) trachea (windpipe) bronchi lungs The upper respiratory tract includes the: nose nasal cavity e...
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 hyper-responsiveness What are the symptoms of asthma? The following are the most common symptoms for asthma. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. In some cases, the only symptom is a chronic cough, especially at night, or coughing or wheezing that occurs only with exe...
Chronic Bronchitis
Chronic Bronchitis Click Image to Enlarge What is chronic bronchitis? Chronic bronchitis is a 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 following are the ...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD) There are several types of lung diseases or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Asthma Chronic Bronchitis Pulmonary Emphysema