Lung Disease and Respiratory System
Diseases, pollutants and genetics can affect your respiratory health. The simple cold - which is caused by more than 200 different viruses - inflames the upper respiratory tract, resulting in a cough, runny nose and sneezing. A more severe cough combined with mucus is a sign of bronchitis, where the membranes lining the bronchial tubes become inflamed. The inflammatory lung disease asthma affects more than 20 million people, making airways constrict when exposed to irritants like dust, pet dander and cigarette smoke. Pneumonia, another inflammation of the lungs, can occur because of a bacterial or viral infection. People suffering from cystic fibrosis, an inherited lung disease, frequently battle bacterial infections and airways clogged with thick and sticky mucus.
Recently Answered
- Q What should I do after exposure to chronic beryllium disease risk factors?
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If you believe you have inhaled beryllium dust - the only risk factor for chronic beryllium disease - there may be a chance you could develop chronic beryllium disease. Some who are exposed to beryllium dust have no symptoms, but are still diagnosed with... Full Answer
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- Q Are there any side effects to chronic beryllium disease medications?
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Corticosteroids used to treat lung inflammation for chronic beryllium disease make it more difficult for the immune system to function properly. They may also worsen preexisting heart conditions, osteoporosis, peptic ulcers, and diabetes. When... Full Answer
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- Q Does chronic beryllium disease affect children differently than adults?
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Chronic beryllium disease is usually the result of inhaling beryllium dust at the workplace, and does not generally affect children. Studies of the effects of beryllium dust on children do not yet exist, but they would likely be similar to those found in... Full Answer
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- Q Is there a cure for chronic beryllium disease?
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There is no cure for chronic beryllium disease. If symptoms become extreme, some patients may receive lung transplants, but this is a replacement, rather than a cure. Scars will remain on the lungs even as treatment is provided. Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage my chronic beryllium disease on a daily basis?
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To manage chronic beryllium disease, the first thing to do is follow your doctor's orders. Each person's case of chronic beryllium disease is unique, so be sure to ask your doctor if you need help altering your lifestyle to deal with your illness. Other... Full Answer
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- Q Can chronic beryllium disease be prevented?
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Chronic beryllium disease is almost always treated by corticosteroids, but can also be treated by pulmonary rehabilitation. Pulmonary rehabilitation is like physical therapy for the lungs, and includes treatments like exercise training, nutritional and... Full Answer
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- Q Are there alternative treatments for chronic beryllium disease?
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Chronic beryllium disease is almost always treated by corticosteroids, but can also be treated by pulmonary rehabilitation. Pulmonary rehabilitation is like physical therapy for the lungs, and includes treatments like exercise training, nutritional and... Full Answer
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- Q How do other illnesses affect chronic beryllium disease?
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Having chronic beryllium disease means that your lung health has already been compromised. People with the condition are at increased risk and susceptibility for other lung conditions and infections, and may have a harder time recovering from other... Full Answer
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- Q How do I care for someone with chronic beryllium disease?
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Depending on the severity of their illness, someone with chronic beryllium disease may require constant care. If you are the caretaker of someone with the condition, consult with their doctor to ensure you understand every part of their therapy. Mild... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat chronic beryllium disease?
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Corticosteroids like prednisone are the most common medication prescribed to treat chronic beryllium disease. These bring down inflammation in the lungs, allowing more oxygen into the bloodstream and making it easier for you to breathe. The scars from... Full Answer
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