Diseases of the Respiratory System and Sleep Apnea

List the two categories of respiratory disease and explain how they affect breathing.

Obstructive diseases make it difficult to exhale, and restrictive diseases make it difficult to inhale

What are the two primary types of respiratory failure called, and how are they characterized?

Hypoxemic (low oxygen levels) and hypercapnic (high carbon dioxide levels).

List and explain the two main types of COPD.

Chronic bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchi) and emphysema (damage to alveoli).

Explain what Interstitial Lung Disease is and how it affects respiration.

A group of disorders causing scarring of lung tissue, reducing lung compliance and impairing oxygen exchange.

Explain what Bronchiectasis is and the issues it causes for a patient.

A chronic condition where airways are permanently widened, causing mucus buildup and recurrent infections.

Explain what Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is and how it affects respiration.

A genetic disorder causing thick, sticky mucus that clogs airways and impairs lung function.

Explain how asthma is different than COPD.

Asthma is characterized by intermittent airway inflammation, while COPD involves progressive and permanent airway damage.

Explain the relationship between Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and pulmonary edema.

CHF increases blood pressure in the lungs, causing fluid to accumulate in the alveoli, leading to pulmonary edema.

What is a pulmonary embolism, and where does it happen?

A blockage in a pulmonary artery in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot.

Explain the relationship between Cor Pulmonale and Pulmonary Hypertension.

Pulmonary hypertension increases resistance in the lungs, leading to right-sided heart failure (Cor Pulmonale).

What does apnea mean?

A temporary cessation of breathing, especially during sleep.

What is the relationship between sleep apnea and airway patency?

Sleep apnea causes the airway to collapse or become obstructed, reducing airflow during sleep.

List and explain the types of sleep apnea.

Central (caused by brain signaling issues) and obstructive (caused by airway blockage).

List at least six symptoms of sleep apnea.

Loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth, and frequent urination at night.

List at least six comorbidities of sleep apnea.

Obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and depression.

What percentage of adults does the CDC estimate have apnea symptoms but don’t discuss with their provider?

75%