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Mysteries of the respiratory system: Why do some diseases leave us breathless?
The respiratory system is of great significance to maintaining life of organisms. However, many diseases may occur and hinder our normal breathing. The pathology of these diseases involves the process of gas exchange, making it particularly difficult for us to breathe in fresh air. This article will take you deeper into the reasons behind these diseases and help us better understand the fragility and importance of the respiratory system.
Structure and function of the respiratory system
The main function of the respiratory system is to bring oxygen into the body and expel carbon dioxide. This process involves multiple organs, from the trachea to the alveoli, and each part plays an indispensable role. Unfortunately, problems in any one area can lead to impaired overall function.
Respiratory illnesses range from mild colds to life-threatening diseases such as pneumonia and lung cancer.
Obstructive pulmonary disease
Obstructive lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are characterized by blockage of the airways, reducing the ability of gases to enter the alveoli. These diseases are usually caused by inflammation of the bronchial tree, and the most common symptoms are shortness of breath and cough. Treatment wise, avoidance of triggers (such as smoke and allergens) and use of bronchodilators are the mainstays of management.
Restrictive lung diseaseIn contrast to obstructive lung disease, restrictive lung disease is characterized by a decreased ability of the lungs to expand, an example being respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn. These diseases can be divided into two categories: intrinsic (such as tissue damage inside the lungs) and extrinsic (such as neuromuscular dysfunction).
Chronic respiratory diseases are diseases that affect the airways and other lung structures over a long period of time. Common ones include asthma and COPD.
Respiratory Tract Infections
Respiratory tract infections can affect any part of the respiratory system and are divided into upper and lower respiratory tract infections. The most common upper respiratory tract infection is the common cold, but more serious infections such as strep throat and tonsillitis cannot be ignored either. Among lower respiratory tract infections, pneumonia is the most threatening, especially when it is caused by bacteria.
Tumor
Tumors of the respiratory system, especially lung cancer, are an important global health problem today. Smoking is considered the main cause of many lung cancers, and treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Pulmonary vascular disease involves problems with blood circulation to the lungs, such as pulmonary embolism and pulmonary hypertension. These conditions are often acute and dangerous, and large pulmonary emboli, in particular, may result in sudden death.
Neonatal diseases
Newborns may also be affected by a variety of unique respiratory problems, such as neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, which is most common in premature babies. Many of these diseases will accompany patients throughout their lives, affecting their health and quality of life.
Diagnostic Methods
Respiratory disease is often diagnosed through a variety of tests, including lung biopsy, blood tests, lung function tests, etc., which can help detect potential health problems early.
EpidemiologyRespiratory diseases are one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. In the US, there are around a billion colds every year, while in the UK one in seven people is affected by chronic respiratory diseases.
Early prevention and effective treatment are crucial to the health of the respiratory system.
While we have a relatively good understanding of how to treat respiratory diseases, how can we more effectively prevent outbreaks of these diseases and protect our respiratory health?
