MOST COMMON RESPIRATORY DISEASES AND THEIR CHARACTERISTICS - MEDICINE - 2025

The respiratory illnesses are common during the winter period and their causes are often associated with low temperatures almost inevitably. However, they are not the only pathologies that cause respiratory disorders; There are innumerable diseases that can cause lung or pharyngeal abnormalities.

Respiratory disease is a medical term that covers pathologies that affect the organs and tissues that make gas exchange possible in higher organisms. It includes different types of disorders: the upper respiratory tract, the trachea, the bronchi, the bronchioles, the alveoli, the pleura, and the nerves and muscles of respiration.

Its symptoms are usually related to breathing - cough, difficulty breathing, mucus - although they can be accompanied by other general symptoms such as headaches, confusion, fever, fatigue…

Respiratory illnesses and problems can be frequent and mild, such as the common cold, to severe and life-threatening, such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, asthma, and lung cancer.

Types of common respiratory diseases and their causes

1- Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by a condition of the airways located in the lungs (American Academy of Allergy Asthama and Imunology, 2016).

The inner walls of the airways swell, become tender, and can react strongly to allergens. By reacting, the airways narrow and the lungs become more sensitive, which can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, or wheezing.

Treatment

At present, immunotherapy is carried out with vaccines that decrease sensitivity to allergies and help reduce the appearance of crises.

Treatment must take into account several factors; the management of allergy, mucosal inflammation and bronchospasm.

Vaccines and antihistamines work for allergies. For inflammation of the mucosa, the most effective are inhaled corticosteroids in very low doses.

As these do not act immediately against bronchospasm, bronchodilators should be used to remove the sensation of suffocation.

When asthma is associated with pulmonary fibrosis or chronic bronchitis, anticholinergics such as Ipratropium Bromide are used (Cortigiani, 2015).

2- Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection of one or both lungs, and can be caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi, with Streptococcus pneumoniae being the most common bacteria.

The signs and symptoms of this disease can vary between the different affected, however, some of the most common include: cough, expectoration of mucus, febrile episodes, chills, respiratory failure, sweating, confusion, headache, loss of appetite, etc. (American Lung Association, 2016).

Treatment

The treatment of bacterial pneumonias is carried out with antibiotics for approximately eight days. Antibiotics help treat several types of pneumonia, and some can be prevented with vaccines.

If outpatient treatment is not effective, he will require hospitalization to administer intravenous fluids and antibiotics and to do oxygen therapy. If the pneumonia is viral, antibiotics are not given because they do not attack the virus.

Pneumonia can produce sepsis and be the cause of death in the elderly and immunosuppressed patients (Pinheiro, 2017).

Currently there is a vaccine against pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is the most common. It is indicated for people over 50 and in children, but it does not prevent those caused by other factors such as viruses and fungi.

3- Bronchitis

In the upper image you can see a normal bronchial tube and in the lower one an inflamed one.

This pathology results from an inflammation of the bronchi, the pathways that carry air from the mouth and nose to the lungs. It is a condition in which the lining of the bronchial tubes becomes inflamed due to viruses, bacteria, or particles that irritate them.

People with bronchitis cannot breathe well and get air into their lungs, and they cannot clear phlegm and mucus from their airways. On the other hand, patients with chronic bronchitis are usually smokers.

The most common symptoms are related to episodes of fever, chest pain, shortness of breath or wheezing (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

The most important are those that lead to dilation of the bronchi, such as bronchodilators.

They can be accompanied by inhaled corticosteroids, which will help keep the inflammation of the bronchi under control.

Complications develop in some patients from influenza bronchitis. Then, the use of treatments targeting viruses A and B can be determined.

Also in some cases, the use of antibiotics may be necessary, when the involvement of bacteria is suspected.

When severe coughing occurs due to bronchitis, it will be necessary to treat it with cough suppressants and expectorants. Correct hydration is also recommended (Escrivá, 2017).

4- Pulmonary ephysema

Pulmonary ephysema produces an abnormal and pathological increase in the air spaces located in the lungs due to an accumulation of air.

The clinical course of this medical condition is characterized by marked shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, among others.

Treatment

Treatment for patients with pulmonary emphysema depends on the degree of obstruction they have.

The most important thing is to stop smoking, use bronchodilators to reduce spasm, and stay well hydrated to avoid superinfection from secretions. Emphysema can be complicated by a person catching the flu or pneumonia.

In patients with severe emphysema and in the early stages of the disease, lung volume reduction surgery may be performed. The most affected parts of the lung are removed, allowing it to function better.

It is also very important to perform respiratory therapies and oxygen therapy, which will help reduce the suffocation that occurs in patients when performing daily activities and helping to prolong the life of the patient.

Emphysema patients should eat healthy nutrition. In them, the act of breathing can consume more calories than in a healthy person.

Part of the treatment is learning to live with the disease, some feel depression due to the factors that accompany their pathology.

To avoid this, they can attend educational programs that will help them acquire better habits and improve their lifestyle (Emphysema, 2015).

5- Pharyngitis

Swollen pharynx

Pharyngitis is inflammation of the pharynx, which is found in the back of the throat. It is popularly called a "sore throat" and is one of the most common reasons for visiting the doctor.

It often occurs with other illnesses such as the common cold, mononucleosis, or the flu. Most cases are caused by viral infections, with gonorrhea bacteria, fungal infections, allergies or gastroesophageal reflux being rare.

Treatment

Treatment with antibiotics will depend on the type of pharyngitis, if it is caused by bacteria, it will be the indicated treatment, but if it is caused by viruses or a common cold, its use is not recommended in any way.

What antibiotics do is activate the immune system, defending the body, attacking the infection and speeding up healing.

In addition to antibiotics, adequate hydration must be maintained. Your doctor may also prescribe lozenges or aerosol medications that will help improve your sore throat.

6- Bronchiolitis

On the other hand, in the case of bronchiolitis, as its name suggests, it occurs as a result of the accumulation and swelling of mucus in the bronchi, the smallest airways of the lungs.

Along with these symptoms there are other types of clinical manifestations such as: cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and fever. In the most extreme cases, patients may show purple skin, a result of lack of oxygen (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

As it is a disease that occurs mainly in children, it is necessary to ensure that the child drinks a lot of fluids and is well hydrated, that the air they breathe is humid to help loosen the mucus and that they have rest.

The main goal of treatment will be to relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath and breath sounds or wheezing.

If the problem worsens, it may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids (Bronchiolitis, 2017).

7- Flu

Flu virus

The flu is one of the most common respiratory diseases, affecting a high percentage of the population. This occurs as a result of viruses that generally cause throat, lung and nose infections.

Among the most common symptoms manifested by patients we observe: body aches, chills, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

Currently, there are still no medicines that have worked well in fighting the flu virus.

The treatment is carried out with analgesics, decongestants and antipyretics that relieve the discomfort caused by the disease, but do not fight it. The body needs to follow its normal course of recovery in each case.

During a flu-like illness, it is recommended to rest and drink plenty of fluids. The use of antibiotics is only prescribed when there is a bacterial complication.

There is preventive treatment with vaccines, which can prevent up to 90% of cases. A new dose must be received each year because the composition changes depending on the type of virus that is spreading.

It is advisable to prevent the flu not only with vaccination, but also by avoiding contagion, washing your hands when you think you have been in contact with the virus, eating a diet rich in vitamins D and C, properly covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

8- common cold

Along with the flu, the common cold affects a large number of patients, hence its name. It is estimated that in the United States this disease affects around one billion people a year.

Among the most common symptoms are runny and stuffy nose and sneezing. Specifically, it appears that these are produced as a result of different viruses. (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

To treat the common cold, you should take steps similar to those for the flu. The cold usually clears up within a few days.

Rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take medications that relieve symptoms are recommended. Antibiotics should not be taken.

It is recommended to prevent infections and a healthy diet, rich in vitamins D and C (Salud en Red, 2017).

9- rhinopharyngitis

Rhinopharyngitis occurs as a result of a respiratory infection. Usually caused by bacteria that affect the pharynx and nasal cavities.

This respiratory disease is very common in children, being one of the main reasons for consultation. However, it can also be observed in adults, being less frequent in the latter (Salud CCM, 2016).

As a consequence of this infection, a swelling of the aforementioned pathways occurs. Likewise, along with these symptoms, we find other types of clinical manifestations such as: cough, sore throat, sneezing and, on some occasions, fever (Salud CCM, 2016).

Treatment

As in the flu, for the treatment of rhinopharyngitis, rest, drink plenty of fluids, especially infusions and natural juices is recommended. Also, do not drink alcoholic beverages or smoke.

As medications, those necessary to relieve symptoms are prescribed, such as analgesics for pain, antipyretics to reduce fever and decongestants or nasal washes, to reduce congestion.

10- tonsillitis

Imflammed amygdals

As its name suggests, tonsillitis occurs as a result of swelling of the tonsils, lymph nodes located in the upper part of the throat and back of the mouth.

Specifically, said infection is the consequence of a viral or bacterial infection that affects the mentioned region (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

In addition to the swelling of the tonsils, we can observe other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, earache, headache and fever.

In some cases, tenderness in the jaw or throat or problems eating may be observed (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

Treatment varies depending on the type of tonsillitis, its symptoms, and its evolution.

Normally it is recommended to eat foods that are not irritating, and medications such as analgesics and antipyretics to reduce the discomfort caused by the disease.

The evolution of an acute tonsillitis can last up to six weeks.

Only in case of bacterial tonsillitis is an antibiotic prescribed. When tonsillitis becomes complicated or chronic, surgical removal or tonsillectomy will be necessary, thus preventing the infection from causing secondary diseases (Arriaga, 2016).

11- Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also called pleurisy, occurs as its name suggests, due to an inflammation of the parietal and visceral pleura, generally the result of pneumonia.

Within this respiratory disease we can find two types according to the symptoms presented. The first type, dry pleurisy, is characterized by the fact that patients present with chest pain, cough, continuous pain in the shoulders and adjacent areas, dyspnea, fever and lack of appetite.

The second of the types, wet pleurisy, is characterized by chest pain, dyspnea, bluish discoloration, fever, or lack of appetite (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

When the cause that produced it is identified, the necessary treatment can be carried out.

If it is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. Pain relievers, cough suppressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and medications are usually prescribed to thin deposits of pus, mucus, or clots.

Rest is recommended to help the body's recovery process. Usually, lying on the side of pain exerts pressure and relief is felt.

Those with pleural effusions may require hospitalization.

12- Pneumothorax

Spontaneous pneumothorax in a young man. After drainage.

Pneumomothorax could be defined as the entry of air that occurs between the visceral and parietal pleural space that can lead to lung collapse that can vary depending on the space occupied (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

As a result of this occupation there is an alteration in the respiratory hemodynamics of the patients. Among the most frequent clinical symptoms we find dyspnea, rapid respiratory movements, chest pain and a dry and persistent cough (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

Treatment for pneumothorax is intended to relieve pressure on the lung and help it re-expand. If it is mild, the evolution is simply monitored through X-rays and oxygen is administered until the lung is expanded again.

If the lung collapse is large, a chest tube will be used to remove excess air. If the chest tube does not fix the problem, surgery may be needed to plug the air leak.

In rare cases, an incision will need to be made between the ribs to provide better access to multiple leaks or very large leaks (Mayo Clinic, 2017).

13- Tracheitis

Tracheitis occurs as a result of swelling of the trachea, generally due to a benign infection, which can affect the larynx or pharynx.

Among the most frequent clinical manifestations we find: spasmodic cough, sputum production and body pain (Salud.doctissimo, 2016).

Treatment

It is usually viral, presenting a spontaneous improvement in a period of three to four weeks. It is recommended to avoid smoking, humidifying the environment, sleeping semi-sitting and cough suppressants in the period of coughing.

Depending on the severity, it may be necessary to give antibiotics, use supplemental oxygen, or an endotracheal tube that is inserted through the mouth into the windpipe to keep it open and aid breathing.

14- Pleural Effusion

Pleural effusion in the left lung

Pleural effusion occurs as a consequence of the accumulation of pleural fluid between the layers that line the lungs and the thoracic cavity.

It is called a pleural effusion due to the excessive accumulation of fluid that causes the disease. We can distinguish two types of spillage according to the area in which the accumulation of liquid occurs.

In the first type, transudative pleural effusion, occurs as a consequence of the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, which leads to increased pressure in the blood vessels.

On the other hand, the exudative effusion occurs as a consequence of the blockage of the lymphatic or blood vessels that have as a consequence lesions in the lungs and even tumors.

Among the most frequent symptoms we find chest pain, cough, fever, hiccups, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

Treatment

Treat what causes it. Respiratory therapies and compresses can help improve it.

In the case of an extended pleural effusion, pleural punctures should be performed to extract the fluid that can aid in the diagnosis of the disease.

If there is infection or pus collects, a permanent suction drain is recommended as a treatment to cleanse the pleura with antibiotics.

The pleurodesis method is used when the disease is intractable to deliberately glue the walls of the pleura.

If the pleural effusion is with widespread suppuration, it can be removed with surgery through an endoscope, helping the lungs heal faster.

15- laryngitis

Above is a normal larynx and below an inflamed one.

Laryngitis occurs as a result of swelling and irritation of the larynx, located in the upper part of the airways that go to the lungs, that is, the trachea.

However, although in most cases this disease occurs as a consequence of a virus, there are also cases in which it is observed as a result of allergies, bacterial infections, brochitis, gastric diseases, injuries or pneumonia, among others.

The most common symptoms are hoarseness or loss of voice. However, some patients present with fever, swollen lymph nodes or glands in the neck.

Treatment

Acute laryngitis, because it is caused by a virus, usually gets better on its own in about a week. Treatment will be with pain relievers and antipyretics to help improve symptoms.

It is also recommended humid air, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding irritating drinks, cigarettes and, above all, avoiding talking too much and loudly or singing, to rest the voice as much as possible (laryngitis, 2017).

16- Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a respiratory disease that occurs as a result of a virus, bacteria or fungus, which cause the inflation of the paranasal sinuses, that is, of the air-filled spaces of the skull, which are located behind the forehead, the eyes, cheeks and bones of the nose (National Institutes of Health, 2016).

This disease is frequent in the adult population. Sinusitis may initially be mistaken for a cold because of its symptoms.

However, in contrast to the cold, patients can present bad breath or loss of smell, cough, fatigue, fever, headache and throat.

Although it is not a common disease in children, in some cases, they can also present it. Among the symptoms presented by this population are high fever and excessive nasal discharge.

Treatment

Depending on the factors that cause it, the treatment will be.

For acute bacterial sinusitis, antibiotics are used depending on the degree of resistance it presents. If progress is not good, second-line antibiotics are used and given for one to two weeks.

When sinusitis is caused by dental infections, it requires specific treatment for these types of infections.

Severe acute sinusitis may require surgery to dilate the openings and drain secretions, especially when it does not respond to antibiotic treatment.

Sinusitis caused by fungi or fungi is treated with surgery and the use of antifungal medications.

17- Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a respiratory disease caused by a bacterium, mycobacterium tuberculosis. As a result, damage to the lungs and even other parts of the body can occur.

Different phases can be observed in the disease. The first one is asymptomatic, that is, in this one there are no clinical symptoms.

However, until the disease progresses, clinical symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain and cough are not observed. In the most extreme cases we can even observe expectorations of blood and excessive sweating, especially at night.

Treatment

Tuberculosis must be treated or it will cause death. A combination of drugs that are effective but have adverse effects is used for its treatment.

Today, the treatment is practically the same as 40 years ago. The difference is that in the past 15 pills were given a day and now there are several drugs in the same pill.

The vaccine that is given does not necessarily prevent the disease, but it reduces its severity.

18- Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis occurs as a result of the build-up of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs, digestive tract, and other areas of the body.

As in the case of rhinopharyngitis, it is a common disease in the pediatric population. However, it can also be seen in adults.

This disease can be very dangerous in newborns as it can cause severe growth retardation as a result of the inability to gain weight. Among the symptoms, we highlight the skin with a salty taste that some patients present.

Treatment

Antibiotics are given as needed or all the time to prevent and treat lung and sinus infections.

They must use bronchodilators and do respiratory therapies to open the airways and to thin the mucus.

Annual flu shots are recommended. As the disease worsens, oxygen therapy will be necessary.

The lung transplant will be a solution only in some cases.

References

1. AAAAI. (2016). ASTHMA. Obtained from American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
2. TO. (2016). Pneumonia Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors. Obtained from American Lung Association.
3. Cleveland Clinic. (2015). Pneumonia Obtained from Cleveland Clinic.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2015). Asthma. Obtained from Mayo Clinic.
5. Mayo Clinic. (2016). Pneumonia Obtained from Mayo Clinic.
6. NIH. (2016). How Is Pneumonia Treated? Obtained from National Heart, Lung and Bloos Institute.
7. NIH. (2016). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from MedlinePlus.
8. WHO. (2016). Asthma Obtained from World Health Organization.
9. Health ccm. (sf). Pulmonary Ephisema. Obtained from Health ccm.