R3 - Respiratory Health Flashcards
What is tonsillitis?
An infection of the tonsils in the pharynx, usually caused by a virus. Symptoms include sore throat, earache, headache, and high fever.
How is tonsillitis treated?
It usually resolves within a week on its own. Surgical removal is possible but not recommended.
What is laryngitis?
Inflammation of the larynx, usually due to a viral infection. It can also be triggered by allergies or vocal cord strain.
How long does laryngitis usually last?
It typically improves within a week.
What is pneumothorax?
A collapsed lung, which can be caused by traumatic injury or an underlying disease.
What is asthma?
A condition where airways narrow, swell, or produce excess mucus, leading to shortness of breath.
What causes asthma?
It can develop due to exposure to chemical irritants, lung infections, or genetic factors.
What is bronchitis?
Inflammation of the bronchi, leading to mucus buildup and coughing.
What is the difference between acute and chronic bronchitis?
• Acute bronchitis: Short-term, bacterial, treated with antibiotics.
• Chronic bronchitis: Long-term, caused by irritants like cigarette smoke, destroys cilia, managed with lifestyle changes and medication.
What is pneumonia?
Inflammation of alveoli, which fill with fluid, interfering with gas exchange.
What are the two types of pneumonia?
• Lobular pneumonia: Affects an entire lobe, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, treated with antibiotics, vaccine available.
• Bronchial pneumonia: Affects bronchioles, can be viral or bacterial, treated with antibiotics.
What is pleurisy?
Swelling and inflammation of the pleural membrane, caused by a virus, bacteria, blood clot, or cancer.
How is pleurisy treated?
Treatment depends on the cause, often includes antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
What is emphysema?
A type of obstructive pulmonary disorder where alveoli walls break down, reducing surface area for gas exchange. Most often caused by smoking.
What is cystic fibrosis?
A genetic condition where an abnormal gene causes overproduction of thick mucus in the lungs, making it difficult to clear.
Why is lung transplant surgery often unsuccessful for cystic fibrosis patients?
The thick mucus makes traditional transplants ineffective, but gene therapy research is ongoing.
What is lung cancer?
Uncontrolled growth of abnormal lung cells forming malignant tumors (carcinomas), which can damage tissue and release toxins.
What are carcinogens, and how do they relate to lung cancer?
Carcinogens are cancer-causing chemicals, such as those found in tobacco, which are a leading cause of lung cancer.
