Respiratory Diseases and Disorders

Difficulties due to Smoking Tar and other carcinogens in Tobacco can destroy cells High Temperatures, smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO 2 ) are also harmful Linked to cancers of the mouth, esophagus, larynx, pancreas, kidney and bladder.

Respiratory Infections Infections of the respiratory system can be caused by: –Bacteria –Viruses –Other Microorganisms Common infections include: Common Cold, Influenza, Pneumonia, Bronchitis, Emphysema, Lung Cancer, Asthma

The Common Cold Affects the upper respiratory system from nose to pharynx The cold virus can cause irritation and swelling of the larynx, trachea and bronchi Can cause damage to the cilia but they heal quickly Usually associated with excessive mucus production which leads to stuffy noses and associated cough and sore throats.

Influenza (The Flu) Caused by a virus. Can affect many body systems. Grows in cells lining the alveoli and damages them. Associated with high fevers, aches along with stomach and digestive problems.

Pneumonia An infection of the alveoli that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms Prior to the availability of antibiotics, many people died from one of these disorders An early common cause of death in HIV and AIDS patients

Bronchitis When bronchial tubes are irritated, swell and produce too much mucus. Mucus build-up can allow bacterial infections to develop as well. Characterized by excessive coughing and phlegm (mixture of mucus and saliva) Can be treated with antibiotics

Chronic Bronchitis When bronchitis lasts for an extended period of time The continuous coughing can damage cilia keeping them from moving harmful substances out of the airways Can lead to permanent damage of the respiratory system

Emphysema When alveoli become enlarged, swollen and red An enzyme is released causing the walls of the sacs to break down, which makes it harder for the alveoli to get oxygen to the bloodstream Blood high in CO 2 and low in O 2 causes shortness of breath Can lead to heart problems as well

Lung Cancer 3 rd leading cause of death in men and women in the US. Tar from cigarettes is the greatest contributing factor. Characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells in the lungs, caused by carcinogens Hard to detect in early stages

Asthma Lung disorder characterized by shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing Caused by a rapid tightening of the bronchial tubes Inhalers that introduce a medicine that relaxes the bronchial tubes can bring relief It is often an allergic reaction Can also be caused by breathing in smoke or pollen, eating certain foods or stress