Respiratory Illnesses: Cough, Bronchitis, and Pneumonia

Flashcards about cough, bronchitis, and pneumonia covering symptoms, causes, and treatments.

What is a cough?

A reflex action that expels irritants from the respiratory tract.

What are some causes of a cough?

Viruses, bacteria, allergies, irritants, and dry air.

According to the notes, when should you see a doctor for a cough?

Coughing up blood, high fever, difficulty breathing, coughing for more than 3 weeks.

What are the different types of coughs?

Acute, chronic, productive, non-productive, and dry.

According to the notes, how do different cough medications work?

Expectorants help thin mucus, antihistamines block allergic responses, cough suppressants work on the brain, decongestants relieve nasal congestion

What is bronchitis?

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes.

What are the common symptoms of bronchitis?

Cough, mucus, sore throat, fatigue, fever and shortness of breath.

What are the causes of Bronchitis?

Caused by viral or bacterial infection or irritants.

What are some treatments for bronchitis?

Rest, hydration, over-the-counter medications, humidifier, and avoiding smoke and irritants.

What over-the-counter medications help mange Bronchitis Symptoms?

Over-the-counter expectorants, mucolytics, cough suppressants and decongestants.

What is pneumonia?

An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.

What are the main symptoms of pneumonia?

Cough (may produce phlegm), fever, fatigue, and breathing difficulty.

What are the different types of pneumonia?

Bacterial, viral, fungal, and aspiration.

What are the main causes of pneumonia?

Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and aspiration.

Who is at higher risk for pneumonia?

Very young children, older adults (65+), people with weakened immune systems, chronic conditions, and smokers.

How is pneumonia diagnosed?

Physical exam, medical history, imaging tests, sputum culture, and blood tests.

How is pneumonia treated?

Antibiotics, oxygen therapy, rest, and fluids.

How can pneumonia be prevented?

Vaccination, hygiene, covering mouth and nose, and a healthy lifestyle.

What is the medicinal treatment for Pneumonia?

Antibiotics, oxygen therapy, rest and hydration, and hospitalization for severe cases.