respiratory

Barrel chest

A thoracic deformity where the chest is shaped more like a cylinder, typically seen in COPD, characterized by a 1:1 AP to lateral diameter ratio.

Pectus excavatum

A funnel chest deformity where the chest is funneled inward, often impacting respiratory function.

Scoliosis

A lateral curvature of the spine that may affect thoracic dimensions and respiratory mechanics.

Kyphosis

A thoracic deformity characterized by an excessive outward curvature of the spine, also known as humpback.

Lordosis

An exaggerated inward curvature of the lumbar spine, often referred to as swayback.

Tripod position

A posture adopted by patients in respiratory distress, where the patient leans forward and uses their arms to support their weight.

Tactile fremitus

The vibration of the chest wall when the patient speaks, which can indicate lung pathologies.

Normal lung sounds

Healthy respiratory sounds characterized by clear, unobstructed airflow through the respiratory tract.

Adventitious sounds

Unusual sounds heard during respiration, including wheezing, crackles, and rhonchi, indicating potential lung pathology.

Egophony

A voice sound test where the patient says 'E;' if it sounds like 'A' during auscultation, it may indicate fluid in the lungs.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchial tree characterized by excessive mucus production, leading to cough and respiratory distress.

Pneumonia

An infection of the lungs causing inflammation in the alveoli, presenting symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

A progressive lung disease including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritants like smoking.

Pneumothorax

The collapse of the lung due to air in the pleural space, leading to decreased lung expansion and respiratory distress.

Atelectasis

The partial or complete collapse of the lung or a segment of the lung, often due to obstruction or pressure from fluid.

Pulmonary embolism

A blockage in the pulmonary arteries usually caused by blood clots, leading to symptoms like sudden shortness of breath and chest pain.

Asthma

A chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, leading to intermittent episodes of wheezing and dyspnea.

Stridor

A high-pitched, wheezing sound resulting from turbulent air flow in the upper airway, often indicating obstruction.

Crepitus

A crackling or popping sensation felt under the skin or during palpation, often caused by air trapped in soft tissues.

Vital Signs

Clinical measurements, typically including body temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, used to assess overall health.

Diaphragmatic excursion

The movement of the diaphragm during breathing, which can be assessed to determine lung function.

Flared nostrils

A sign of respiratory distress where the nostrils widen during breathing, often indicating increased effort to breathe.

Costal angles

The angle formed between the ribs at the costal margins, which should typically be less than 90 degrees.

Accessory muscles

Muscles that aid in breathing during times of respiratory distress, indicating increased work of breathing.

Decreased tactile fremitus

A finding indicating potential lung pathology such as pleural effusion or COPD, where vibratory sensation is diminished.

Hyperresonance

A percussion note indicating excess air in the pleural space, often associated with conditions like pneumothorax or emphysema.

Dullness on percussion

A sign indicating the presence of fluid or solid mass in the lungs, often seen in pneumonia or pleural effusion.

Wheezing

A continuous, high-pitched sound produced by narrowed airways, commonly heard in asthma or during respiratory distress.

Crackles (rales)

Abnormal lung sounds heard during inhalation, indicative of fluid in the airways, common in pneumonia and heart failure.