What are the diseases of the respiratory system?
Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "diseases of the respiratory system" to get these possible sources:
http://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=diseases+of+the+respiratory+system&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search. Also see http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/.
The respiratory system is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its different components. Some common respiratory diseases include:
1. Asthma: This is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This is a progressive lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is mainly caused by long-term exposure to irritants like smoke or chemical fumes, leading to airflow obstruction and breathing difficulties.
3. Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi and may trigger symptoms like cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
4. Tuberculosis (TB): TB is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. It can cause symptoms such as persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue.
5. Lung Cancer: Lung cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the lungs. It usually starts in the cells lining the bronchi (the main air passages of the lungs). Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and unintentional weight loss.
To diagnose and treat respiratory diseases, it is essential to consult with a medical professional. They will conduct a physical examination, review medical history, and may order tests such as lung function tests, chest X-rays, CT scans, or blood tests to accurately diagnose the specific condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment.