respiratory specialist & asthma

Respiratory Specialists

• Diagnosis & Treatment: Focus on conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

Types of Specialists

• Pulmonologist: Treats lower respiratory system disorders, including:
  • Trachea
  • Bronchi
  • Bronchioles
  • Alveoli
  • Conditions: pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma.
• ENT Specialist (Otorhinolaryngologist): Treats upper respiratory system conditions.

Asthma Overview

• Nature: Chronic allergic disorder; episodic symptoms triggered by:
  • Environmental agents (e.g., pollen)
  • Certain foods
  • Exercise (exercise-induced asthma)
• Characteristics: Includes dyspnea; episodes called asthma attacks.

Symptoms

• Wheezing: Sound during exhalation due to partially closed airway.
• Stridor: Sound during inhalation due to airway closure.

Medications for Asthma

• Maintenance Drugs: Daily use to prevent asthma attacks.
• Rescue Medications: Fast-acting for use during an asthma attack; may be delivered via:
  • Inhaler: Direct medication delivery into airway.
  • Nebulizer: Converts liquid medication into vapor for inhalation.