Problems of the Respiratory System

Sinusitis Definition – inflamed or swollen sinuses Symptoms – Runny nose Risk Factors – exposure to pollutants Complications – Ear infections Causes – bacterial infection

Tonsillitis Definition – inflammation of the tonsils Symptoms – painful swallowing Risk Factors – young children are more at risk Complications – Difficulty Breathing Causes – contact with the common viruses

Laryngitis Definition – inflammation of your voice box Symptoms – sore throat, weakened voice Risk Factors – other respiratory infection Complications – painful talking Causes – vocal strain

Bronchitis Definition - Inflammation of the walls of the bronchi Symptoms – Cough Risk Factors – Smoking, Environmental Complications – Fatigue Causes – Air pollution, virus

Common Cold Definition - Viruses temporarily break down the immune system of the respiratory organs Symptoms – congestion Risk Factors – young children are more at risk Complications – Ear infections Causes – contact with the cold virus

Pneumonia Definition – infection that inflames the air sacs Symptoms – fever, chest pain Risk Factors – children under 2, adults over 65 Complications – difficulty breathing Causes – bacteria in the air we breathe

Asthma Definition – A condition in which your airways narrow and swell Symptoms – “wheezing” while breathing Risk Factors – obesity, smoking Complications – Can effect recreational activities Causes – genetics

Emphysema Definition – Damaged or ruptured alveoli Symptoms – shortness of breath Risk Factors – smoking Complications – heart trouble Causes – long term exposure to irritants like smoke

Lung Cancer Definition – abnormal cell growth in the lungs Symptoms – chronic cough, chest pain Risk Factors – smoking, second hand smoke, exposure to radon Complications – Ear infections Causes – smoking

Prevention  Don’t Smoke  Avoid Smokers  Wash Your Hands  Cover your coughs and sneezes