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| Sinusitis |
The sinuses are chambers filled with air, located within the facial bones behind the eyebrows, cheeks, and jaw. These sinuses normally contain mucus which cleanse the air we breath. When the lining of these sinuses gets infected, the condition is called sinusitis. The most common cause of sinusitis is a previous cold. Other causes are either bacterial, viral, or fungal upper respiratory tract infection. These cause inflammation which lead to swelling of the linings of the sinuses. Mucus becomes trapped as a result of the obstruction. More and more mucus are formed which favor the growth of bacteria producing the infection. Obstruction of the sinus passages can also be caused by presence of nasal polyp and deviated nasal septum. Allergies, prolonged use of decongestants, and smoking also cause irritation of the sinus passages which can lead to inflammation. Symptoms include headache, pain in some areas of the face such as the forehead, cheeks, or eyes, nasal congestion, fever, tooth ache, and sore throat secondary to post nasal drip. Use of antibiotics for 10 - 14 days is indicated. The normal course of the antibioics must be followed even though there is improvement in the symptoms after intake for several days. It is also important to get enough rest and drink plenty of fluids. Avoiding smoking or exposure to polluted air can help prevent having the condition. |
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| Pneumonia |
Pneumonia is a very common inflammation of the lungs. It occurs when our body defenses fail to protect us allowing microorganisms to enter our lungs, invade our air sacs and cause infection. Our white blood cells will try to fight the invading microorganisms and will rush to the site. The accumulation of these different substances in the affected area will lead to inflammation.
The condition is common in immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV, diabetes, chronic lung problems, and cardiovascular diseases. It is also common in those whose spleen had been removed, in chronic smokers, heavy alcohol drinkers, and those exposed to lung irritants, toxic fumes, or air pollution.
The signs and symptoms vary depending on the cause. Bacterial pneumonia may present with fever, chest pain, and productive cough. Viral pneumonia may have similar symptoms with dry cough initially and later the cough may become productive with white phlegm. Fungal (Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia) cause is usually seen in immunocompromised individuals. Mycoplasma on the other hand has milder symptoms.
Treatment may include use of antibiotics, paracetamol, cough suppressants, and pain relievers when necessary. The treatment usually depends on the type of pneumonia and its severity. It is also important to rest and to increase fluid intake. |
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| Emphysema |
Emphysema is part of a group of diseases called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that is very common in chronic smokers thus causing progressive damage to the lungs. Other diseases included in COPD are asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Normally when we inhale, the air we breathe in passes to the trachea then to the bronchi. The bronchi subdivides into smaller airways called bronchioles and the airway finally ends in millions of small air sacs called alveoli. It is in the alveoli where exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide take place because of the presence of capillaries in its walls. It is also due to the presence of elastic fibers in the alveoli that help them expand when one inhales and contract during exhalation.
In a person with emphysema, the wall of the alveoli has already lost its elasticity because of inflammation. The walls expand when air enters but it breaks upon expansion creating larger spaces which are not efficient for the exchange of gases to take place. He then has to breath harder in order to take in oxygen and to forcefully exhale to expel air out of the lungs. The forceful exhalation causes compression of the many small airways making it more difficult for air to move out.
Shortness of breath and fatigue are the common symptoms noted. Since this is a chronic condition, the symptoms are not usually noted until permanent damage has taken place. The symptoms worsen as the condition progresses. It is accompanied by productive or non-productive cough and loss of appetite.
Smoke coming from tobacco or cigarette or even secondhand smoke cause paralysis of the small hairs in the airway called cilia. The cilia normally function to propel out irritants and foreign bodies present in the airway. When paralyzed they are then able to invade the alveoli and cause inflammation.
The number one prevention and treatment is to stop smoking. This can prevent progression of the damage in the alveoli. Other treatment options that could help relieve symptoms include use of bronchodilators, antibiotics, supplemental oxygen, and inhaled steroids. |
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| Chronic Bronchitis |
Chronic Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways, particularly the bronchi, characterized by productive cough for more than three months duration for two consecutive years. The excessive mucus production cause airflow obstruction making it difficult for the air to get in.
Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of this condition. The smoke irritates the airway hence even the second hand smokers have increased risk of having the condition. Other lung irritants like dust, chemical fumes, aerosol products, and air pollution may worsen the condition.
The expectorated sputum may be blood-streaked owing to the irritation of the bronchial lining. Other symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, headache, and fatigue.
The goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms and prevent complications. It is also important to avoid exposure to the irritants and to stop smoking to prevent exacerbation. Physical exercise is very important to help improve the lung condition and strengthen the immune system.
Inhaled bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications are given to improve airway condition. Antibiotics may be given if the doctor finds that they are needed. For unresponsive individuals, corticosteroids are indicated. |
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| Acute Bronchitis |
This is an inflammation of the tracheobronchial tree, the series of tubes that bring air to the lungs. When these tubes become infected there is swelling and excess mucus secretion bringing about the symptoms.
The most common cause are viruses. These are the same viruses that cause other respiratory tract infections. We acquire them when they are present in the air we breath or when they are present in the things we hold. Bacterial cause is less common.
Exposure to certain irritants or air pollutants increase the risk of having the condition. Aside from this, having a low resistance coupled with smoking predisposes one to the condition. Smoking damages the airway making it easier for the pathogens to invade and cause disease.
Another risk factor is gastroesophageal reflux disease. In this condition, the acid from the stomach tends to flow back to the esophagus causing irritation in the area and produce coughing.
Coughing with mucus production is the most common symptom of acute bronchitis. It may be accompanied by wheezing, difficulty of breathing, sore throat, fever, nasal congestion, and malaise.
A cough suppressant is usually given as treatment especially when one cannot sleep due to persistent coughing. Getting enough rest and increased fluid intake may help improve the condition. Antibacterial medications are not usually given unless the doctor see that there is an indication. |
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| Asthma |
Asthma is a very common inflammatory condition of the airways characterized by increased mucus secretion, bronchial muscle contraction, and swelling of the mucosa. All these narrow down the airway which decreases the airflow.
The inflammation is caused by irritants present in the air. This can be in the form of cigarette smoke, paint fumes, polluted air, and aerosol sprays. When any of these mix with the air and inhaled, the hypersensitive airways over-react producing the signs and symptoms of asthma.
Aside from the irritants, asthma is also caused by allergens and infections. Common allergens include pets, house dust, molds, polllen, feathers, and foods like milk and eggs. Viral and bacterial respiratory infections can also trigger an asthma attack.
Symptoms include cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The severity of the symptoms is the basis of treatment. It is therefore important to monitor an individual with an asthma attack to determine whether he or she is improving or is getting worse. The manner of speaking and breathing is closely monitored together with the skin color, level of awareness, and the presence or absence of chest indrawing.
Increased physical activity such as running, weather changes, and other activities that involve deep rapid breathing can trigger an asthma attack. Avoiding the triggers help prevent occurrence of an attack.
Asthma is managed using inhalation and systemic bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs. Please visit your physician to determine the best medication suited for you. |
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| Meibomianitis |
This is a chronic inflammation of the group of sebaceous glands located on the eyelids collectively called the meibomian glands. The condition is usually bilateral and associated or preceded by blepharitis. It is caused by thickening of the oily secretions of these glands which leads to accumulation of secretions on the lid margins and favoring the growth of bacteria. The patient usually complains of a chronically red and irritated eyes. There is swelling and redness of the lid margins with prominence of the meibomian glands. A frothy conjunctival discharge may be seen and a soft yellowish material can be expressed from the glands. There may also be mild blurring of vision. The treatment consists of cleansing of the edges of the lids, warm compresses, and topical antibiotic theraphy. Maintaining lid hygiene and avoiding rubbing the eyes prevents one from having the condition. |
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