Signs, Symptoms and etiology of common diseases, conditions, and injuries: RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

Acute respiratory distress (ARDS)

Symptoms: SOB, low BP, rapid breathing (following an injury)

Etiology: Fluid buildup in the alveoli blocks oxygen from passing into the blood stream following an acute injury, typically in those who are already critically ill or have had previous tramatic injuries

Diagnosis: arterial blood gas analysis, chest x-ray TX oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and antibiotics

Asthma

Symptoms: Wheezing, SOB, chest tightness, and coughing

Etiology: Airway inflammation causes lining of air passages to swell and tighten, leading to a reduction in the amount of air that can pass into and out of the lungs

Diagnosis: Pulmonary function tests TX involves medications, both inhaled and taken orally

Bronchitits

Symptoms: SOB, fever, chills, fatigue, coughing, and production of mucus

Etiology: Acute is caused by viral illnesses such as colds and flu while Chronic is caused by smoking

Diagnosis: Physical in which lungs are listened to via stethoscope, chest x-ray, pulmonary function tests TX for acute are typically resolved without intervention and Chronic is respiratory therapy

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Symptoms: chest tightness, productive cough, wheezing, SOB with activity

Etiology: Disease which airflow into and out of the lungs is blocked usually die to a combination of bronchitis and emphysema while primary cause is smoking

Diagnosis: Patient hx, pulmonary function tests, chest x-ray, and CT scan TX involves smoking cessation, medication and oxygen therapy

Rhinitis

Symptoms: Sneezing, coughing, runny nose, watering eyes, pressure in ears

Etiology: Irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose, along with excessive production of mucus. Allergic rhinitis is triggered by allergens in the air

Diagnosis: Physical, allergists can help determine the cause of allergic rhinitis TX involves antihistamines and corticosteriods