Enfermedades del Sistema Respiratorio

Respiratory System Diseases

The respiratory system is responsible for supplying oxygen to our body cells while removing carbon dioxide through the process of gas exchange. However, various conditions can affect this system, leading to several diseases. Some common respiratory diseases include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, pneumonia, tuberculosis, sleep apnea, and pleurisy.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by airway obstruction and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Asthma is further classified into intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, severe persistent, and fixed airflow limitation. The treatment includes medications like inhalers, beta agonists, oral corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, anticholinergics, and methylxanthines.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a progressive condition affecting the lungs' ability to absorb oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. It occurs when the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged, usually due to smoking. Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, frequent coughing, and fatigue from physical activity. Treatment involves quitting smoking, oxygen therapy during sleep, and bronchodilators to widen constricted airways.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that begins in the trachea, bronchi, or alveoli of the lungs. Tobacco smoking is the primary risk factor. Symptoms may include chest pain, persistent cough, hoarseness, arm or shoulder pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and bone pain. Screening tests include CT scans, X-rays, sputum cytology, phlegm test, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection causing inflammation in the lung tissue. It can lead to difficulty breathing, and symptoms include fever, chills, cough with phlegm, and chest pain. Risk factors include age, pre-existing conditions, weakened immune system, exposure to infected people, and environmental factors. Prevention measures involve vaccination, hygiene practices, and improved living standards.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Symptoms include coughing (usually without sneezing, runny nose, or sore throat), chest pain, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, low grade fever, and hemoptysis (spitting blood). Diagnosis often involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays, and microbiological tests.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing stops for at least 10 seconds during sleep due to a narrowing of the upper airway. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, and surgery.

Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleurisy, is an inflammation of the thin layers of tissue that line the lungs and line the inside of the chest wall. Symptoms may include sharp chest pain made worse with deep breaths or coughing, shortness of breath, and cough. Causes include respiratory infections, chest injuries, and certain medications.

In conclusion, the respiratory system diseases can significantly impact our quality of life and overall health. Understanding these diseases can help individuals take preventive measures and seek appropriate treatment when necessary.