3D illustration of the lungs.Source: iStock Facts you should know about pleurisy Pleurisy involves inflammation of the tissue layers (pleura) lining the lungs and inner chest wall. Pleurisy is often associated with the accumulation of fluid between the two layers of pleura, known as pleural effusion. Pleurisy is caused by a variety of conditions, such …
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Orthopnea is different from sleep apnea. When you find it difficult to breathe while lying down because of the accumulation of fluids in your lungs, it is known as orthopnea. Usually, it takes time to have a sudden onset. You may wake up from sleep because of lack of oxygen. Orthopnea is different from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when …
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Tachypnea is rapid, fast, and shallow breathing Tachypnea is rapid, fast, and shallow breathing. In this condition, a person’s respiratory rate is higher than the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute). It is caused by an imbalance between the respiratory gases leading to a decreased supply of oxygen and increased carbon dioxide in the blood. The buildup of carbon dioxide …
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What is bronchiectasis? Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition in which the bronchi (tube-like passageways that transfer air within the lungs) get permanently damaged and widened. The most common causes of bronchiectasis are pneumonia, pertussis, tuberculosis and non-tuberculosis mycobacterium. Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition in which the bronchi (tube-like passageways that transfer air within the lungs) get permanently damaged …
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Generic drug: ivacaftor Brand name: Kalydeco What is Kalydeco (ivacaftor), and how does it work? Kalydeco (ivacaftor) is a prescription medicine used for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in patients age 6 months and older who have at least one mutation in their CF gene that is responsive to Kalydeco. Talk to your doctor to learn if you have …
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What is mucus in the lungs? Mucus buildup in the lungs can be cased by infection, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), smoking, cystic fibrosis, allergies, bronchiectasis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Mucus is a protective substance that’s created by many body parts such as the mouth, sinuses, throat, lungs, stomach, and intestines. About a liter of mucus is produced by …
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What is hypoxia? Hypoxemia is decreased oxygen in the blood. Hypoxemia can lead to hypoxia. Hypoxia is a condition in which there is decreased oxygenation in the body tissues. It can be generalized, affecting the entire body, or local, affecting a specific part of the body. Hypoxia can cause damage to multiple organs and lead to fatal complications. Hypoxemia is …
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Hypoxia and hypoxemia (low blood oxygen) facts Hypoxia is a state of insufficient oxygen supply for normal life functions, and hypoxemia is a state of low arterial oxygen supply. Hypoxia is a condition or state in which the supply of oxygen is insufficient for normal life functions; hypoxemia is a condition or state where there is a low arterial oxygen …
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What is a sinus infection vs. COVID-19 coronavirus? If you have symptoms like nasal congestion and swelling around the bridge of nose and eyes, you may have sinus infection. But if you are experiencing shortness of breath or chills along with other symptoms, you may have COVID infection. As doctors and researchers continue to learn more about COVID-19 and the …
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What is Seebri Neohaler, and how does it work? Generic drug: glycopyrrolate Brand name: Seebri Neohaler Seebri Neohaler is an anticholinergic medicine known as glycopyrrolate. Anticholinergic medicines such as Seebri Neohaler help the muscles around the airways in your lungs stay relaxed to prevent symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. This makes it hard to …
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