Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Bronchitis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Sub-category: Infectious Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
persistent cough (often productive); mucus production (yellow, green, or clear); wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; fatigue; low-grade fever

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually due to viral infections (acute bronchitis) or long-term irritants like smoking (chronic bronchitis).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, listening to lung sounds, chest X-ray (to rule out pneumonia), sputum analysis, and sometimes spirometry for chronic cases.

Treatment:
Symptomatic relief (rest, hydration, humidifier use), bronchodilators for wheezing, and, in bacterial cases, antibiotics. Chronic bronchitis management includes smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Medications:
Bronchodilators like albuterol (beta-agonist), corticosteroids like fluticasone (anti-inflammatory), and antibiotics such as doxycycline if bacterial infection is confirmed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acute bronchitis is common, with millions of cases annually worldwide, while chronic bronchitis is a major component of COPD, affecting about 10% of adults over 45.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to pollutants, history of respiratory infections, weakened immunity, and asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute bronchitis typically resolves within weeks. Chronic bronchitis requires ongoing management and may lead to progressive lung damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory failure in severe cases.

Asthma

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity

Sub-category: Respiratory Diseases

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; coughing, especially at night or early morning

Root Cause:
Chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to narrowing and obstruction. Triggered by allergens, irritants, or respiratory infections.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Spirometry (to assess airflow and lung function), peak flow measurement, allergy tests, and clinical history.

Treatment:
Avoiding triggers, inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene modifiers, and biologics for severe cases.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (like albuterol ), long-acting beta-agonists (like salmeterol ), inhaled corticosteroids (like budesonide ), leukotriene modifiers (like montelukast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Asthma affects approximately 10% of the global population, with higher prevalence in children and young adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of asthma, exposure to allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander), respiratory infections during childhood, air pollution, smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, asthma can often be controlled, though it may persist into adulthood or worsen with age.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma attacks, respiratory failure, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity

Sub-category: Respiratory Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chronic cough; wheezing; chest tightness; frequent respiratory infections; fatigue

Root Cause:
Progressive airflow limitation due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, often caused by smoking or long-term exposure to lung irritants.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Pulmonary function tests (spirometry) to measure lung capacity and airflow, chest X-ray, and blood tests (ABGs - arterial blood gases).

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in severe cases, lung surgery or transplantation.

Medications:
Short-acting bronchodilators (like albuterol ), long-acting bronchodilators (like salmeterol ), inhaled corticosteroids (like fluticasone ), and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (like roflumilast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
COPD affects around 10% of the global adult population, with a higher prevalence in older adults and smokers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, occupational dust and chemicals, genetic factors (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
COPD is progressive and irreversible; however, treatment can manage symptoms and slow progression. Prognosis varies based on severity and adherence to treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory infections, heart problems (e.g., cor pulmonale), lung cancer, chronic respiratory failure, and increased risk of pneumonia.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Neonatal Conditions (Newborns)

Sub-category: Prematurity-Related Conditions

Symptoms:
persistent need for oxygen; difficulty breathing; poor growth; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing; retractions (use of chest muscles to breathe)

Root Cause:
Lung injury caused by mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, and inflammation in preterm infants with immature lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on the need for supplemental oxygen at 28 days postnatal age and/or at 36 weeks postmenstrual age, along with clinical and radiographic findings.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, noninvasive or mechanical ventilation, diuretics to manage fluid buildup, nutritional support, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) to ease breathing, diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) to reduce fluid in the lungs, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation, and antibiotics for preventing or treating infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10–30% of infants born at less than 28 weeks gestation.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, maternal infections, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most children improve with age, but some may have long-term respiratory issues such as asthma or reduced lung function.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, recurrent infections, developmental delays, and poor growth.

Bronchiolitis

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Pediatric Emergencies

Sub-category: Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
runny nose; cough; wheezing; rapid breathing; retractions (chest wall pulling in); poor feeding; fever

Root Cause:
Inflammation and mucus build-up in the small airways (bronchioles), most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms; nasal swab tests for RSV may be used; chest X-rays only for severe cases.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, oxygen supplementation if needed, and suctioning of nasal secretions.

Medications:
No routine medications; bronchodilators or nebulized hypertonic saline may be used in selected cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20–30% of infants under 1 year old, with higher rates during winter and spring.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, age under 6 months, exposure to cigarette smoke, crowded living conditions, daycare attendance.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most recover with supportive care; severe cases may require hospitalization and oxygen therapy. Rarely leads to long-term respiratory issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory distress, hypoxia, dehydration, and secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia.

Foreign Body Aspiration

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
coughing; choking; wheezing; stridor; dyspnea; cyanosis; unilateral decreased breath sounds

Root Cause:
An object or substance is inhaled into the airway, causing obstruction and irritation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation followed by chest X-ray or bronchoscopy for confirmation.

Treatment:
The foreign object may be removed via bronchoscopy or surgery. In emergency situations, Heimlich maneuver or back blows may be necessary to dislodge the object.

Medications:
Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an infection caused by aspiration, and corticosteroids or bronchodilators may be used to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in children, particularly those under the age of 3.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (children), eating or playing with small objects, reduced swallowing reflexes, and neurological disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good if treated promptly; delayed treatment can lead to serious complications like pneumonia or airway damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Aspiration pneumonia, airway obstruction, lung abscess, and in severe cases, respiratory failure.

Cystic Fibrosis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Genetic and Congenital Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic cough; frequent lung infections; wheezing; shortness of breath; poor growth and weight gain; salty-tasting skin; digestive issues (e.g., greasy stools, constipation)

Root Cause:
A genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to the production of thick and sticky mucus that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Sweat test (measuring chloride levels). Genetic testing to identify CFTR gene mutations. Newborn screening. Pulmonary function tests. Chest X-ray.

Treatment:
Airway clearance techniques (e.g., chest physiotherapy). Nutritional support (e.g., high-calorie diet, pancreatic enzyme supplements). Pulmonary rehabilitation. Lung transplant in advanced cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol )

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1 in 3,500 live births in the U.S.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern (both parents must carry a CFTR gene mutation).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life expectancy has improved significantly with advances in treatment, with many living into their 40s and 50s. However, it remains a life-limiting condition due to progressive lung disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory infections. Respiratory failure. Diabetes (CF-related diabetes). Liver disease. Infertility in men.

Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Respiratory Disorders

Sub-category: Chronic Conditions

Symptoms:
rapid breathing; difficulty breathing; need for supplemental oxygen; poor weight gain; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing

Root Cause:
Underdeveloped lungs, inflammation, and oxygen therapy/mechanical ventilation cause scarring and impaired lung development in preterm infants.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history (preterm birth and oxygen/ventilation dependency), chest X-rays, echocardiogram to rule out heart issues, and blood gas analysis.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation (if needed), nutritional support, and medications to reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ), diuretics (e.g., furosemide ) to manage fluid buildup, corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation, and surfactant replacement in early management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10,000–15,000 infants annually in the U.S., primarily those born before 30 weeks of gestation or with low birth weight.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, maternal infections, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Many infants improve with age, but some may have long-term respiratory issues, including asthma or reduced lung function.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, asthma, and developmental delays related to chronic oxygen dependence.

Smoke Inhalation Injuries

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Trauma and Injuries

Sub-category: Respiratory Injuries

Symptoms:
coughing; difficulty breathing; hoarseness; soot in the nostrils or throat; wheezing; burns in the mouth or throat; altered mental state due to hypoxia

Root Cause:
Damage to the respiratory tract from inhaling hot gases, toxic fumes, or particulate matter during a fire.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, visible signs of inhalation, chest X-rays, bronchoscopy, arterial blood gases (ABG), and carboxyhemoglobin levels.

Treatment:
Immediate airway stabilization, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, suctioning secretions, and mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Medications:
Bronchodilators such as albuterol (to relieve bronchospasm) and corticosteroids like methylprednisolone (to reduce inflammation). Antibiotics if infection is suspected.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A common cause of injury in fire-related incidents; smoke inhalation contributes to up to 60% of fire-related deaths.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to enclosed fires, chemical plants, or industrial fires, and lack of proper safety equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the severity; mild cases recover with supportive care, while severe cases with complications (e.g., ARDS) have higher mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, carbon monoxide poisoning, and long-term pulmonary dysfunction.

Asthma exacerbation

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Respiratory Emergencies

Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; chest tightness; coughing; rapid breathing; use of accessory muscles for breathing; cyanosis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Acute inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by triggers like allergens, infections, or irritants, leading to increased airway resistance and airflow obstruction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation (symptoms, history of asthma), physical exam (wheezing on auscultation), and pulmonary function tests like spirometry or peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gases (ABGs) may be used in severe cases.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, bronchodilators (short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol), corticosteroids (oral or IV), anticholinergics (ipratropium), and sometimes magnesium sulfate in severe cases. Address triggers and provide mechanical ventilation if needed.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like albuterol (bronchodilator), inhaled anticholinergics like ipratropium (bronchodilator), systemic corticosteroids like prednisone or methylprednisolone (anti-inflammatory), and magnesium sulfate (smooth muscle relaxant) in severe exacerbations.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Asthma affects about 5-10% of the global population; exacerbations vary widely but are a common cause of emergency department visits.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor asthma control, exposure to allergens or irritants, respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, smoking, and comorbidities like obesity.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely and appropriate treatment, most exacerbations are reversible. Severe cases without treatment can lead to respiratory failure and death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxia, respiratory failure, pneumothorax, pneumonia, and cardiovascular strain.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Respiratory Emergencies

Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
increased shortness of breath; wheezing; chronic cough; increased sputum production; fatigue; cyanosis; confusion in severe cases

Root Cause:
Acute worsening of chronic airflow limitation due to increased airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and possible infection or exposure to irritants.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical exam (wheezing, decreased breath sounds), pulse oximetry, arterial blood gases (ABGs), chest X-ray, and sometimes sputum analysis or blood tests. Spirometry is used to assess baseline lung function.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy (target SpO2

Medications:
Albuterol (short-acting beta-agonist), ipratropium (anticholinergic), systemic corticosteroids like prednisone or methylprednisolone for inflammation, and antibiotics like azithromycin or amoxicillin /clavulanate for bacterial infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-15% of adults worldwide; exacerbations are a leading cause of hospitalizations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to air pollutants, respiratory infections, poorly controlled COPD, and advanced age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery is possible with treatment; recurrent exacerbations accelerate lung function decline and increase mortality risk.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, and right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale).

Airway Obstruction

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies

Sub-category: Foreign Body Ingestion/Inhalation

Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; wheezing; choking; cyanosis (bluish skin); inability to speak; stridor (high-pitched breathing sound); unconsciousness in severe cases

Root Cause:
Blockage of the airway caused by foreign objects, swelling, trauma, or other obstructions that impede airflow to the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, physical examination (e.g., visualizing the throat), imaging (e.g., X-ray, CT scan), and potentially bronchoscopy for direct visualization of the airway.

Treatment:
Immediate intervention to clear the obstruction (e.g., Heimlich maneuver, suctioning, or direct removal with instruments), oxygen therapy, and securing the airway through intubation or tracheostomy if necessary.

Medications:
Medications may include epinephrine (a bronchodilator for anaphylaxis), corticosteroids (to reduce airway swelling), and sedatives or anesthetics if endoscopy or surgery is required. Epinephrine - Adrenergic agonist for emergency relief in anaphylaxis. Corticosteroids - Anti-inflammatory drugs for swelling reduction. Bronchodilators - Beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) in cases of reactive airway obstruction.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Airway obstruction is a common cause of emergency visits, with thousands of cases annually, particularly in children under 3 and older adults with impaired swallowing reflexes.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young children (tendency to place objects in their mouths), older adults (swallowing difficulties), eating while talking or laughing, and medical conditions like severe allergies or asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on promptness of treatment; most cases resolve without long-term consequences if treated promptly. Delay in treatment can result in hypoxia, brain injury, or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxia, cardiac arrest, aspiration pneumonia, tracheal damage, and neurological damage from lack of oxygen.

Chronic Bronchitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Chronic Respiratory Diseases

Sub-category: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Symptoms:
chronic cough with mucus production; shortness of breath; wheezing; fatigue; recurrent respiratory infections

Root Cause:
Persistent inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes, often due to long-term exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke or air pollutants, leading to airway narrowing and mucus overproduction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through a combination of patient history (e.g., smoking), pulmonary function tests (spirometry), chest X-rays, and blood tests to rule out other conditions.

Treatment:
Includes smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and management of symptoms with medications. Oxygen therapy may be required in advanced stages.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., salbutamol, tiotropium ), inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ), combination inhalers, and mucolytics (e.g., carbocisteine). Antibiotics may be prescribed during acute exacerbations caused by bacterial infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects millions globally, with higher prevalence in smokers and older adults. Chronic bronchitis is a leading cause of COPD.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), long-term exposure to air pollutants, occupational exposure to dust and chemicals, recurrent respiratory infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive disease with variable outcomes depending on smoking cessation and treatment adherence. Early intervention improves quality of life.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Frequent exacerbations, respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Emphysema

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Symptoms:
shortness of breath (dyspnea); chronic cough (often dry); wheezing; fatigue; barrel-shaped chest; weight loss; reduced exercise tolerance

Root Cause:
Destruction of alveolar walls and loss of elastic recoil in the lungs due to chronic exposure to irritants like smoking. This results in air trapping, hyperinflation of the lungs, and impaired gas exchange.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, spirometry (showing reduced FEV1/FVC ratio), chest X-ray (showing hyperinflated lungs and flattened diaphragms), CT scan (for visualization of emphysematous changes), and blood gas analysis in severe cases.

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, bronchodilators, corticosteroids (inhaled or oral), long-term oxygen therapy for advanced cases, and surgical options like lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplant in severe cases.

Medications:
Inhaled bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol - a short-acting beta-agonist, salmeterol - a long-acting beta-agonist); anticholinergics (e.g., ipratropium ); combination inhalers (e.g., budesonide /formoterol ); inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ); and phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors (e.g., roflumilast ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Emphysema affects approximately 5%–6% of the adult population globally, with higher prevalence among smokers and individuals over 40.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Cigarette smoking (most significant factor), exposure to air pollutants, occupational exposure to dust and chemicals, recurrent respiratory infections, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Progressive disease with no cure. Smoking cessation and proper treatment slow progression and improve quality of life. Advanced disease often leads to disability and reduced life expectancy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale), pneumothorax (collapsed lung), frequent exacerbations, and respiratory failure in advanced stages.

Allergic Asthma

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Respiratory Allergies

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; coughing, especially at night or early morning; triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold

Root Cause:
Inflammation and constriction of the airways due to immune system overreaction to allergens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Lung function tests (spirometry), allergy testing, medical history, peak flow measurement.

Treatment:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene receptor antagonists, allergen avoidance, biologic therapies (e.g., monoclonal antibodies).

Medications:
Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide , Mometasone ), long-acting beta agonists (e.g., Salmeterol , Formoterol used with ICS), leukotriene modifiers (e.g., Montelukast ), biologics for severe asthma (e.g., Omalizumab , Mepolizumab , Dupilumab ), and rescue medications (e.g., Albuterol , Levalbuterol ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 8-10% of the global population; up to 60% of asthma cases have an allergic component.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of asthma or allergies, exposure to allergens, pollution, smoking, respiratory infections in childhood.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms are controllable with proper management; untreated asthma can lead to chronic lung issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma attacks, chronic obstructive airway disease, decreased quality of life, potential hospitalization.

Non-Allergic Asthma

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Asthma

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; persistent coughing (not linked to allergens); symptoms worsen with exposure to irritants like smoke, cold air, or strong odors

Root Cause:
Airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness triggered by non-allergic factors (e.g., infections, environmental irritants, stress, or exercise).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Medical history, physical exam, pulmonary function tests (spirometry), and exclusion of allergic causes through skin or blood tests.

Treatment:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and avoidance of irritants.

Medications:
Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., mometasone , beclomethasone ) to manage chronic inflammation; bronchodilators like long-acting beta-agonists (e.g., salmeterol ) or short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for symptom relief; and leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce inflammation. Biologic therapies (e.g., mepolizumab ) may be used in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Less common than allergic asthma; typically develops in adults, especially women.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Respiratory infections, occupational exposure to irritants, obesity, smoking, and air pollution.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; avoiding triggers is crucial for symptom control.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe asthma exacerbations, airway remodeling, and increased risk of infections or bronchiectasis.

Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Asthma

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; coughing (post-exercise); chest tightness; decreased exercise tolerance; fatigue during or after exercise

Root Cause:
Temporary airway narrowing triggered by physical activity, often due to rapid breathing of dry or cold air causing airway dehydration and inflammation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exercise challenge test (spirometry before and after exercise), eucapnic voluntary hyperpnea (EVH) test, or observation of symptom patterns during exercise.

Treatment:
Pre-exercise use of bronchodilators, maintenance inhaled corticosteroids if symptoms are frequent, warm-up exercises, and avoiding exercise in cold or dry conditions.

Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for immediate relief before exercise; inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ) for chronic symptom control; leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce exercise-induced inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects up to 10% of the general population and 90% of people with existing asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Underlying asthma, cold weather, dry air, high-intensity exercise, and poor physical conditioning.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment and prevention strategies; most people can maintain an active lifestyle.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe exercise limitations, poor physical fitness, and risk of exacerbation of underlying asthma.

Bronchiectasis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
chronic cough; excessive mucus production; shortness of breath; recurrent respiratory infections; wheezing; fatigue; chest pain

Root Cause:
Permanent dilation and damage of the bronchial tubes due to chronic inflammation and infection, leading to impaired mucus clearance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made using chest CT scans (to visualize bronchial dilation), pulmonary function tests, sputum analysis for infections, and blood tests to check for underlying conditions.

Treatment:
Treatment includes airway clearance techniques, pulmonary rehabilitation, antibiotics for infections, and management of underlying conditions.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin , ciprofloxacin , or amoxicillin-clavulanate) for bacterial infections; bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , salmeterol ) to ease breathing; inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide , fluticasone ) to reduce airway inflammation; and mucolytics (e.g., hypertonic saline, dornase alfa) to thin mucus.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated to affect 350,000–500,000 people in the United States, with higher prevalence in older adults and those with underlying conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous lung infections (e.g., tuberculosis, pneumonia), genetic conditions (e.g., cystic fibrosis), immune system disorders, chronic aspiration, and smoking.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper treatment, symptoms can be managed, and quality of life can improve, but the condition is chronic and progressive without a cure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent lung infections, respiratory failure, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), pulmonary hypertension, and reduced quality of life.

Obliterative Bronchiolitis (Bronchiolitis Obliterans)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Obstructive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Small Airway Diseases

Symptoms:
chronic cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; fatigue; exercise intolerance

Root Cause:
Inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the small airways (bronchioles), leading to airflow obstruction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical history, physical examination, pulmonary function tests (showing obstructive patterns), high-resolution CT scans (showing mosaic attenuation), and, in some cases, lung biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Treatment:
Management includes supportive care, removal of causative agents, medications to reduce inflammation, and, in severe cases, lung transplantation.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressive drugs like mycophenolate mofetil or azathioprine to slow disease progression, and macrolide antibiotics such as azithromycin for anti-inflammatory effects. Bronchodilators like albuterol may be used for symptom relief.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with prevalence varying based on underlying causes (e.g., post-lung transplantation, inhalational exposure to toxic fumes).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lung transplantation, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, exposure to toxic fumes (e.g., diacetyl in popcorn factories), autoimmune diseases, and viral infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; prognosis depends on the underlying cause and response to treatment. Lung transplantation may improve survival in severe cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive respiratory failure, pulmonary hypertension, secondary infections, and reduced quality of life due to persistent symptoms.

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; cough; fever; chills; fatigue; loss of appetite; wheezing; weight loss (in chronic cases)

Root Cause:
Immune-mediated inflammation of the alveoli and small airways caused by repeated exposure to inhaled organic particles (e.g., mold, bird droppings, farming dust) or chemical antigens.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed exposure history, chest imaging (CT scan showing ground-glass opacities or fibrosis in chronic cases), pulmonary function tests, blood tests for specific antibodies, and sometimes lung biopsy.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure to causative antigens, use of corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation, and supportive measures like oxygen therapy for severe cases.

Medications:
Corticosteroids such as prednisone are the mainstay of treatment to control inflammation. Immunosuppressive drugs like azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil may be used in chronic or refractory cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Prevalence varies widely depending on exposure risk, with higher rates among farmers, bird breeders, and people working in moldy environments.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Repeated exposure to known antigens (e.g., bird droppings, mold, farming dust), genetic predisposition, and inadequate ventilation in work or home environments.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early diagnosis and avoidance of triggers lead to good outcomes; chronic exposure can cause irreversible lung damage and progressive fibrosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, respiratory failure, and reduced quality of life.

Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis (Black Lung Disease)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Restrictive Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Pneumoconiosis

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; chest tightness; fatigue; dark sputum

Root Cause:
Lung tissue damage and scarring caused by prolonged inhalation of coal dust, leading to impaired lung function and reduced oxygen exchange.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Occupational history of coal dust exposure, chest X-ray (showing small nodular opacities in the upper lung zones), CT scan for detailed imaging, and pulmonary function tests (indicating restrictive or obstructive patterns).

Treatment:
Smoking cessation, avoidance of further exposure to coal dust, oxygen therapy if needed, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Annual monitoring for disease progression is recommended.

Medications:
No medications can reverse CWP. Symptomatic treatments include bronchodilators for obstructive symptoms and corticosteroids for inflammatory complications. Antibiotics may be prescribed for secondary infections.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common in coal miners, with regional variations based on mining practices and safety regulations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term occupational exposure to coal dust, poor workplace ventilation, and lack of respiratory protective equipment.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Chronic and progressive; early detection can improve quality of life, but severe cases can lead to significant respiratory impairment or premature death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, cor pulmonale, and respiratory failure.

Aspergillosis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; weight loss; sinus congestion; wheezing

Root Cause:
Infection caused by the Aspergillus fungus, which is found in soil, decaying organic matter, and indoor environments; affects individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying lung conditions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests, imaging studies (CT or X-rays of lungs), sputum cultures, biopsy, galactomannan assay, and PCR for Aspergillus DNA.

Treatment:
Antifungal medications, surgical removal of fungal masses (if necessary), corticosteroids in allergic forms.

Medications:
Voriconazole (antifungal triazole), Amphotericin B (antifungal polyene), Itraconazole (antifungal triazole), and Posaconazole (antifungal triazole).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in the general population; more common in individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic lung diseases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, long-term corticosteroid use, chemotherapy, solid organ transplants, hematologic malignancies, and existing lung diseases such as COPD or tuberculosis.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; invasive aspergillosis has a high mortality rate without prompt treatment, while allergic forms are manageable with proper therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, dissemination to other organs, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Infectious Diseases of the Respiratory System

Sub-category: Viral Infections

Symptoms:
runny nose; cough; sneezing; wheezing; fever; decreased appetite; difficulty breathing in severe cases

Root Cause:
Caused by RSV, a highly contagious virus that infects the respiratory tract, particularly dangerous for infants and older adults.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, rapid RSV antigen testing, or PCR tests.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, oxygen therapy, and in severe cases, mechanical ventilation.

Medications:
In severe cases, ribavirin (antiviral) may be used. For high-risk infants, palivizumab (monoclonal antibody) can be administered prophylactically. Symptomatic relief includes fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects most children by age 2; seasonal outbreaks in fall and winter. Severe cases more common in infants, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, congenital heart disease, chronic lung disease, weakened immune systems, crowded living conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve within 1-2 weeks; severe cases can require hospitalization.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, bronchiolitis, respiratory failure, and increased risk of asthma later in life.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
persistent cough; chest pain; shortness of breath; wheezing; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; hemoptysis (coughing up blood)

Root Cause:
Abnormal and uncontrolled growth of lung cells leading to tumor formation in the lung.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests (CT scan, chest X-ray), biopsy (either via bronchoscopy, needle biopsy, or surgery), and molecular testing for genetic mutations.

Treatment:
Treatment options depend on the stage and type but can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Medications:
Chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin (alkylating agent) and pemetrexed (antimetabolite); targeted therapies like osimertinib (EGFR inhibitor); immunotherapies such as nivolumab (checkpoint inhibitor).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor), exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental toxins (e.g., radon, asbestos), family history, older age.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage NSCLC has a better prognosis, with survival rates improving with surgery or targeted therapy; advanced stages generally have lower survival rates.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, metastasis to other organs, pleural effusion, recurrence after treatment, and side effects from treatments (e.g., chemotherapy-induced neutropenia).

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
cough; chest pain; shortness of breath; wheezing; hoarseness; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; paraneoplastic syndromes (e.g., siadh, cushing’s syndrome)

Root Cause:
Rapidly growing, aggressive cancer that typically starts in the bronchi and spreads early to other parts of the body.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis often involves chest imaging (X-ray, CT), biopsy (bronchoscopy or needle biopsy), and staging with PET scan to assess metastasis.

Treatment:
Treatment primarily involves chemotherapy and radiation. SCLC is less commonly treated with surgery due to its early spread.

Medications:
Chemotherapy regimens typically include etoposide (topoisomerase inhibitor) and cisplatin (alkylating agent). Immunotherapy agents like atezolizumab are also used in combination with chemotherapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
SCLC accounts for about 15% of all lung cancer cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (strongest risk factor), secondhand smoke exposure, occupational exposures (asbestos, radon), genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
SCLC is aggressive with a poor prognosis. It often metastasizes quickly and is typically diagnosed at a later stage. However, with early diagnosis and aggressive treatment, some patients may achieve remission.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to brain, liver, and bones, paraneoplastic syndromes, treatment-related side effects, and cachexia.

Lung Carcinoid Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Thoracic Cancers

Sub-category: Lung Cancer

Symptoms:
persistent cough; wheezing; chest pain; shortness of breath; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; coughing up blood (hemoptysis); recurrent pneumonia

Root Cause:
Slow-growing neuroendocrine tumors that form in the lung tissue, often originating from bronchial epithelial cells.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis typically involves imaging (CT scans, X-ray), biopsy (bronchoscopy or percutaneous biopsy), and possibly a bronchial lavage or cytology. Immunohistochemistry is used to confirm the neuroendocrine nature of the tumor.

Treatment:
Surgery is the primary treatment for localized carcinoid tumors. For advanced stages, treatments may include chemotherapy or somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide) for symptom control and slowing tumor growth.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide ) for symptom control, chemotherapy agents such as streptozocin (alkylating agent) or etoposide (topoisomerase inhibitor) for advanced disease.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lung carcinoid tumors are rare, accounting for about 1–2% of all lung cancers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking is less of a risk factor compared to other types of lung cancer. There may be associations with genetic conditions such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good prognosis, especially when diagnosed early. These tumors tend to grow slowly and are often treatable with surgery, with many patients surviving long-term after removal of the tumor.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis (though rare), recurrence of tumors, carcinoid syndrome (flushing, diarrhea, wheezing), and treatment-related side effects.

Metastatic Lung Disease

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Neoplastic Conditions

Symptoms:
chronic cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; fatigue; unintentional weight loss; hemoptysis (coughing up blood); wheezing

Root Cause:
Cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the lungs from other parts of the body, often through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan, PET scan), biopsy of lung tissue, bronchoscopy, and analysis of fluid (if pleural effusion is present).

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on palliative care and control of the primary cancer. Options include systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and sometimes localized radiation therapy.

Medications:
Common medications include systemic chemotherapy agents (e.g., paclitaxel , carboplatin ), targeted therapies (e.g., EGFR inhibitors like erlotinib or ALK inhibitors like crizotinib ), and immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab , nivolumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 20-40% of cancers metastasize to the lungs. Prevalence depends on the type of primary cancer (e.g., breast, colorectal, kidney, and melanoma are common sources).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Primary cancers with high metastatic potential, advanced-stage cancer, genetic predispositions, and immune suppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor overall prognosis, as metastatic lung disease is often a late-stage finding; survival depends on the type and extent of primary cancer and response to therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pleural effusion, significant pain, decreased quality of life, and complications from treatments such as infections or side effects of systemic therapy.

Occupational Asthma

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Symptoms:
wheezing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; cough; symptoms worsening at work and improving during time off

Root Cause:
Inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by exposure to allergens or irritants in the workplace, such as dust, fumes, chemicals, or animal proteins.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Detailed occupational history, pulmonary function tests (spirometry and peak expiratory flow monitoring), allergen-specific tests, and possibly a methacholine challenge test.

Treatment:
Avoidance of workplace triggers, use of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids, and implementing workplace safety measures (e.g., masks, ventilation).

Medications:
Commonly prescribed medications include short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) for quick relief, long-acting beta-agonists (e.g., salmeterol ) combined with inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone or budesonide ) for maintenance, and leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., montelukast ) to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occupational asthma accounts for up to 15% of all adult asthma cases in industrialized countries.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Workplace exposure to allergens (e.g., animal dander, latex, flour), irritants (e.g., smoke, fumes, dust), or specific chemicals (e.g., isocyanates, cleaning agents), and having a history of allergies or asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and removal from exposure, symptoms can improve or resolve; delayed diagnosis or continued exposure may lead to persistent asthma and long-term lung damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic asthma, reduced lung function, job loss due to inability to work in certain environments, and diminished quality of life.

Smoke Inhalation

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Occupational and Environmental Lung Diseases

Sub-category: Environmental Exposures

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; cough; soot in the mouth or nose; wheezing; burning sensation in the throat or chest; confusion or altered mental state (in severe cases)

Root Cause:
Inhalation of smoke, which can contain toxic gases, particulates, and chemicals that cause irritation, damage to the respiratory system, and inflammation in the airways and lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on a patient's history of exposure to smoke, physical examination, and symptoms. Imaging such as chest X-ray or CT scan may be used to assess lung damage. Blood gases may be taken to evaluate respiratory function.

Treatment:
Oxygen therapy to improve oxygen levels. Bronchodilators to open airways. Steroids to reduce inflammation. Supportive care including fluids and monitoring in severe cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol , salbutamol) to relax the muscles of the airways and improve airflow. These are beta-agonists that act as bronchodilators. Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) to reduce inflammation in the airways. Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen ) for pain management.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs frequently in fire-related incidents, with thousands of cases annually. It can also affect individuals who work in industries with high exposure to smoke, such as firefighting.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to high levels of smoke (e.g., during fires). Occupations involving exposure to smoke (e.g., firefighting). Pre-existing respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis can vary depending on the severity of inhalation and lung damage. Mild cases generally recover fully with treatment, while severe cases may result in long-term lung damage and even death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure. Acute lung injury (ALI) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Chronic lung disease (e.g., COPD). Infections due to weakened immune system or lung damage.

Tracheomalacia

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
noisy breathing; wheezing; shortness of breath; coughing; stridor; recurrent respiratory infections

Root Cause:
The trachea is abnormally soft, leading to collapse during exhalation, resulting in airflow obstruction and respiratory distress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical assessment and confirmed by imaging, such as flexible bronchoscopy, chest X-rays, or CT scans of the chest.

Treatment:
Treatment may involve conservative management such as observation, airway clearance techniques, or in severe cases, surgery like tracheal stenting or tracheoplasty.

Medications:
No specific medications treat tracheomalacia directly. However, bronchodilators like albuterol (a beta-agonist) may be prescribed to relieve wheezing and improve airflow. In cases of associated infections, antibiotics may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare condition, often present in infants, with some cases continuing into adulthood.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, low birth weight, congenital disorders (e.g., Down syndrome), and a history of prolonged intubation or mechanical ventilation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often improves with age as the airway structure becomes more rigid; however, some may require surgical intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent respiratory infections, airway collapse, and potential for respiratory failure in severe cases.

Bronchomalacia

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
wheezing; recurrent cough; difficulty breathing; chronic respiratory infections; stridor

Root Cause:
The bronchial walls are weak and may collapse during exhalation, causing airway obstruction and difficulty breathing.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Flexible bronchoscopy, chest X-rays, or CT scans can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Management includes airway clearance techniques, inhaled bronchodilators, and sometimes surgery if symptoms are severe.

Medications:
Bronchodilators like albuterol (a beta-agonist) and corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and open the airways.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in infants and young children but can affect adults, especially those with chronic respiratory conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, congenital conditions like tracheomalacia, chronic respiratory infections, and intubation history.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms may improve with age, but in some cases, persistent issues require long-term management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory infections, difficulty managing symptoms, and progressive airway collapse in severe cases.

Tracheobronchitis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
cough; fever; sore throat; wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort

Root Cause:
Inflammation of the trachea and bronchi, often due to viral or bacterial infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms and confirmed with a chest X-ray or sputum culture if a bacterial infection is suspected.

Treatment:
Symptomatic treatment with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications (e.g., acetaminophen for fever). Antibiotics may be required if a bacterial infection is diagnosed.

Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin or azithromycin ) may be prescribed if bacterial infection is identified. Bronchodilators and corticosteroids may help alleviate symptoms of wheezing and inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in the winter months and in individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to respiratory infections, smoking, weakened immune system, and pre-existing lung conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically resolves with appropriate treatment, but can take longer in people with underlying lung diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Vocal Cord Dysfunction (Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion)

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Disorders of the Airway

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; coughing; choking sensation; difficulty breathing; voice changes; stridor

Root Cause:
The vocal cords close instead of opening during inhalation, which can obstruct airflow and cause respiratory distress.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation and may involve laryngoscopy to observe vocal cord motion.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on breathing exercises, speech therapy, and stress management techniques. Medications may be used to manage symptoms.

Medications:
Inhaled bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) may be prescribed to relieve symptoms of wheezing or difficulty breathing. Anxiety or stress-related medications may also be used in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects both adults and children, with a higher incidence in women and those with asthma or anxiety.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, anxiety, stress, irritant exposure, and history of upper respiratory infections.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often improves with proper treatment, including speech therapy and breathing exercises. However, symptoms may recur.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Misdiagnosis as asthma or other respiratory conditions, ongoing breathing difficulties, and impaired quality of life.

Chronic Cough

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
persistent cough lasting more than 8 weeks; dry or productive cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; sore throat; fatigue

Root Cause:
Chronic cough is often a symptom of an underlying condition such as asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), post-nasal drip, or chronic bronchitis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on a thorough medical history, physical examination, and ruling out other conditions with tests like chest X-rays, pulmonary function tests, and possibly endoscopy or pH monitoring for GERD.

Treatment:
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, such as managing asthma with inhalers, controlling GERD with antacids or proton pump inhibitors, or using decongestants or antihistamines for post-nasal drip.

Medications:
Medications may include bronchodilators like albuterol (a beta-agonist), inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ), antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine ), proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ), or cough suppressants like dextromethorphan (a non-opioid antitussive). These medications fall into categories of bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antihistamines, proton pump inhibitors, and antitussives.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-20% of the adult population. Chronic cough is a common reason for medical visits.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, allergies, asthma, exposure to environmental irritants, respiratory infections, GERD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the underlying cause; with appropriate treatment, most cases resolve or improve significantly. If the underlying cause is not treated, the cough may persist.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
If untreated, chronic cough can lead to sleep disturbances, rib fractures, urinary incontinence, or headaches.

Pulmonary Eosinophilia

Specialty: Pulmonology

Category: Other Respiratory Conditions

Symptoms:
cough; shortness of breath; wheezing; fever; fatigue; chest pain

Root Cause:
Pulmonary eosinophilia is characterized by an increase in eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the lungs, often triggered by allergies, infections, or autoimmune diseases.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes blood tests showing elevated eosinophil counts, chest imaging (CT scan), and sometimes bronchoscopy with biopsy.

Treatment:
Treatment typically involves corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) to reduce inflammation and addressing any underlying causes (e.g., infection or allergy).

Medications:
Common medications include corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation and antibiotics if an infection is present. These are classified as corticosteroids and antibiotics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; more common in individuals with allergies or asthma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Allergies, asthma, infections (e.g., parasitic), autoimmune diseases.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With treatment, the condition often improves, though recurrence can occur if the underlying cause is not resolved.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Untreated pulmonary eosinophilia may lead to lung damage, fibrosis, or respiratory failure in severe cases.

Carcinoid Syndrome

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Rare Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
flushing of the skin; diarrhea; abdominal cramping; heart palpitations; shortness of breath; wheezing; weight loss; skin lesions; edema; carcinoid heart disease (in advanced cases)

Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of serotonin and other vasoactive substances by carcinoid tumors, usually arising in the gastrointestinal tract or lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through elevated 24-hour urinary 5-HIAA levels and imaging to locate neuroendocrine tumors.

Treatment:
Treatment includes somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide), symptom control, and surgical resection or targeted therapies for tumor management.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide )

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; affects approximately 1-2 individuals per 100,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of neuroendocrine tumors, conditions like MEN1 syndrome, smoking, and previous cancer diagnoses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the extent of disease; with localized tumors, 5-year survival exceeds 80%, but metastatic disease lowers survival rates to approximately 30%-50%.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Carcinoid heart disease (fibrotic damage to heart valves). Intestinal obstruction or bleeding from primary tumors. Severe malnutrition due to chronic diarrhea. Hormone crisis during tumor manipulation or anesthesia.

Carcinoid Tumors

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
flushing; diarrhea; abdominal pain; wheezing; heart valve problems; weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Carcinoid tumors arise from neuroendocrine cells, which produce hormones such as serotonin and other chemicals. These tumors often grow slowly and can secrete hormones that affect various body systems.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is typically through imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans, and blood tests measuring elevated levels of serotonin or 5-HIAA (a serotonin metabolite). Biopsy and histopathological examination confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:
Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, somatostatin analogs (like octreotide) to control symptoms, chemotherapy, and in some cases, liver-directed therapies (such as ablation or embolization) if the tumors have spread to the liver.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide and lanreotide ) are often prescribed to control symptoms and inhibit hormone secretion. These medications are classified as peptide receptor drugs and can help reduce flushing and diarrhea. Chemotherapy agents may also be used, depending on the tumor's progression, such as streptozocin and temozolomide , which are alkylating agents.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Carcinoid tumors are rare, accounting for about 0.5% of all cancers, but the incidence of neuroendocrine tumors is rising, with an estimated prevalence of 2-5 cases per 100,000 people per year.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in older adults), a family history of neuroendocrine tumors, certain inherited genetic syndromes (such as MEN1 and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome), and conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract like Crohn's disease.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis depends on the location and spread of the tumor. Localized tumors have a relatively good prognosis with surgery, but metastatic or advanced cases can be more challenging to treat. The 5-year survival rate for localized carcinoid tumors is around 80%, while it drops significantly with distant metastases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Potential complications include carcinoid syndrome (which leads to flushing, diarrhea, and heart valve problems), liver metastasis, and malnutrition due to nutrient malabsorption from the gastrointestinal symptoms.

Lung cancer

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Disorders

Sub-category: Oncologic Disorders

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; coughing up blood

Root Cause:
Abnormal growth of cells in the lungs, often starting in the lining of the airways. It may be non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or small cell lung cancer (SCLC).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis includes chest X-ray, CT scan, biopsy, and sputum cytology.

Treatment:
Treatment includes surgery (lobectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

Medications:
Chemotherapy (e.g., cisplatin , carboplatin , paclitaxel ). Targeted therapies (e.g., erlotinib , osimertinib for EGFR mutations). Immunotherapy (e.g., nivolumab , pembrolizumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, with higher incidence in smokers.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking (primary risk factor). Exposure to radon, asbestos, and environmental pollutants. Family history of lung cancer.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is poor in advanced stages, but early-stage lung cancer can be treated successfully.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to other organs (brain, liver, bones). Respiratory failure. Pneumonitis.

Milk Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Food Allergies

Symptoms:
hives; vomiting; stomach cramps; diarrhea; wheezing; anaphylaxis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to milk proteins, primarily casein or whey.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick testing, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenges under medical supervision.

Treatment:
Complete avoidance of milk and milk-containing products, use of epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) for anaphylaxis and oral antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine , Loratadine ) for mild reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-3% of children; often outgrown by adolescence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, eczema, or asthma; early exposure to cow's milk proteins.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good for most children as they often outgrow it; lifelong management needed for persistent cases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, nutritional deficiencies if not replaced properly, social challenges.

Tree Nut Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Food Allergies

Symptoms:
skin reactions like hives; swelling of lips or tongue; difficulty swallowing; wheezing; anaphylaxis

Root Cause:
Immune system reaction to proteins in tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pecans.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick tests, specific IgE blood tests, oral food challenge.

Treatment:
Avoidance of tree nuts, carrying epinephrine for severe reactions, allergen immunotherapy in development.

Medications:
Epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) and oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine ) for mild reactions.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 0.5-1% of the population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies, atopic conditions, prior allergic reactions to nuts.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Rarely outgrown; lifelong management is often necessary.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Anaphylaxis, cross-reactivity with other nuts, social and dietary challenges.

NSAID Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Drug Allergies

Symptoms:
hives or angioedema; wheezing; nasal congestion; anaphylaxis in severe cases

Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to NSAIDs caused by immune or non-immune mechanisms.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, oral challenge, and exclusion of other causes.

Treatment:
Avoidance of NSAIDs, use of alternative medications like acetaminophen, and desensitization protocols when necessary.

Medications:
Antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Diphenhydramine ) and epinephrine for anaphylaxis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 0.1-0.3% of the general population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, chronic urticaria, nasal polyps.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with avoidance of offending drugs; severe reactions require emergency preparedness.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Life-threatening anaphylaxis, limited treatment options for pain or inflammation.

Dust Mite Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Environmental Allergies

Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; itchy or watery eyes; coughing; wheezing; asthma exacerbations

Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to proteins found in dust mite feces, body parts, and secretions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with dust mite allergen; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; evaluation of symptom history

Treatment:
Array

Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine , Azelastine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and allergy immunotherapy (e.g., Dust Mite Sublingual Tablets like Odactra ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 10-20% of people worldwide; a leading cause of perennial allergic rhinitis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of allergies; exposure to dusty environments; living in humid climates

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be well-managed with treatment and environmental controls.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma exacerbations; reduced quality of life due to persistent symptoms

Mold Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Environmental Allergies

Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; runny nose; itchy or watery eyes; coughing; postnasal drip; wheezing; asthma exacerbations

Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to mold spores inhaled from the environment, triggering immune system responses.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with mold allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; assessment of environmental exposure

Treatment:
Array

Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and environmental control measures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of the population; varies by region and exposure.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living or working in damp or moldy environments; family history of allergies; asthma or other respiratory conditions

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with environmental control and medical treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma attacks; allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in severe cases

Animal Dander Allergy (e.g., Cat, Dog)

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Environmental Allergies

Symptoms:
sneezing; runny nose; nasal congestion; itchy or watery eyes; wheezing; asthma symptoms

Root Cause:
Immune system overreacts to proteins found in animal skin flakes (dander), saliva, or urine.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with dander allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; assessment of symptoms and exposure

Treatment:
Array

Medications:
Oral or intranasal antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine , Fexofenadine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone , Budesonide ), leukotriene receptor antagonists (e.g., Montelukast ), and immunotherapy for specific allergens.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10-20% of the population; more common in people with asthma or other allergies.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to pets; family history of allergies; existing respiratory conditions

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment and allergen avoidance.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic sinusitis; asthma exacerbations

Cockroach Allergy

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Allergic Disorders

Sub-category: Environmental Allergies

Symptoms:
sneezing; nasal congestion; itchy or watery eyes; wheezing; asthma attacks; skin rashes

Root Cause:
Allergic reaction to proteins found in cockroach feces, saliva, and body parts.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Skin prick test with cockroach allergens; blood test for specific IgE antibodies; evaluation of living conditions

Treatment:
Array

Medications:
Oral antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine , Cetirizine ), intranasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone ), and allergen control measures.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 5-10% of the population, especially in urban areas.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in cockroach-infested areas; poor sanitation; family history of allergies

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can be controlled with treatment and environmental management.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Asthma exacerbations; chronic respiratory issues

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Other Related Disorders

Symptoms:
chronic cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; fever; brownish mucus plugs; recurrent asthma exacerbations

Root Cause:
Hypersensitivity reaction to Aspergillus fumigatus spores, leading to immune-mediated lung inflammation and airway damage.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Elevated total serum IgE levels, specific IgE and IgG antibodies against Aspergillus fumigatus, imaging studies (CT or X-rays) showing central bronchiectasis or mucus impaction, and pulmonary function tests.

Treatment:
Oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antifungal therapy (e.g., itraconazole or voriconazole) to control fungal load, and bronchodilators for symptomatic relief.

Medications:
Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone ), antifungals (e.g., Itraconazole ), and biologics (e.g., Omalizumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 1-2% of individuals with asthma and 2-15% of individuals with cystic fibrosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Asthma, cystic fibrosis, environmental exposure to Aspergillus spores, and underlying atopic conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on early diagnosis and treatment; progression to chronic pulmonary aspergillosis or permanent lung damage is possible without treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bronchiectasis, chronic respiratory insufficiency, recurrent lung infections, pulmonary fibrosis, and reduced lung function.

Inhalation injuries (smoke inhalation)

Specialty: Trauma and Injuries

Category: Burns and Thermal Injuries

Sub-category: Special Burn Types

Symptoms:
coughing; difficulty breathing; wheezing; soot or carbon particles in the mouth or nose; hoarseness; chest pain; confusion or loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
Inhalation of smoke or toxic gases during a fire leads to damage to the respiratory tract, particularly the lungs and airways, and can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, history of exposure, physical examination, pulse oximetry, and chest imaging (X-ray or CT scan). Blood tests for carbon monoxide levels are also used.

Treatment:
Immediate treatment includes oxygen therapy, airway management, nebulized medications to reduce inflammation, and sometimes mechanical ventilation for severe cases.

Medications:
Oxygen therapy (as the primary treatment), bronchodilators (such as albuterol ) for airway constriction, corticosteroids for inflammation, and in some cases, hyperbaric oxygen therapy for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in house fires or industrial accidents, though it often occurs alongside other burns and trauma.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to fire or hazardous environments, lack of proper ventilation, smoking, and pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies widely depending on the severity of the injury and the promptness of treatment. With early intervention, many patients recover fully, but prolonged exposure can lead to permanent respiratory damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic respiratory issues (e.g., pulmonary fibrosis), airway obstruction, carbon monoxide poisoning, and in severe cases, death due to asphyxiation.

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

Specialty: Oncology

Category: Sarcomas

Sub-category: Rare Cancers

Symptoms:
abdominal pain; diarrhea; flushing; wheezing; fatigue; unexplained weight loss; heart palpitations; skin rashes

Root Cause:
Neuroendocrine tumors are cancers that develop from neuroendocrine cells, which have characteristics of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. These tumors can occur in various parts of the body, most commonly the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and lungs. They can secrete hormones, leading to symptoms like flushing and diarrhea.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is through imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to locate the tumor, blood tests for elevated hormone levels (e.g., chromogranin A, serotonin), and biopsy for histological confirmation.

Treatment:
Treatment often involves surgical resection of the tumor, if localized, and medications such as somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide) to manage symptoms. Chemotherapy and targeted therapies (e.g., everolimus, sunitinib) may be used for advanced or metastatic disease. In some cases, liver-directed treatments (like embolization) or peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) are used for metastases.

Medications:
Somatostatin analogs like octreotide and lanreotide help control the symptoms and reduce hormone secretion. These are classified as peptide receptor drugs. For advanced NETs, chemotherapy agents like temozolomide or streptozocin (alkylating agents) and targeted therapies like everolimus (an mTOR inhibitor) and sunitinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor) may be used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
The incidence of NETs has been increasing, with an estimated prevalence of around 2-3 cases per 100,000 individuals per year. NETs are rare but more common in older adults, with gastrointestinal and pancreatic NETs being the most frequent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Risk factors include age (more common in people over 50), a family history of NETs, genetic conditions like multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, and neurofibromatosis type 1.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies based on tumor type, location, and stage at diagnosis. For localized NETs, the 5-year survival rate is generally favorable (70-80%), while advanced or metastatic NETs have a lower survival rate (around 30-40%).

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Complications include metastasis to the liver or other organs, carcinoid syndrome (which includes symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, and heart valve issues), hormonal imbalances, and malabsorption due to gastrointestinal involvement.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (SERPINA1 gene mutation)

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Autosomal Recessive Disorders

Symptoms:
shortness of breath; chronic cough; wheezing; recurrent respiratory infections; jaundice; liver disease

Root Cause:
Mutations in the SERPINA1 gene lead to low or dysfunctional alpha-1 antitrypsin protein, causing lung damage from uninhibited neutrophil elastase and liver damage due to protein accumulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood test measuring alpha-1 antitrypsin levels, genetic testing for SERPINA1 mutations, imaging for lung damage (e.g., CT scan), liver function tests.

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (e.g., avoiding smoking), augmentation therapy with alpha-1 antitrypsin, and, in severe cases, lung or liver transplantation.

Medications:
Alpha-1 antitrypsin protein (augmentation therapy), bronchodilators, corticosteroids for lung inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 individuals of European descent.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history; higher prevalence in Northern European populations.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; better with early diagnosis and lifestyle modifications. Without treatment, may lead to early-onset COPD or liver disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Early-onset emphysema, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma.

Chlorine gas exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
coughing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; burning sensation in the throat and eyes; wheezing; nausea; vomiting; pulmonary edema

Root Cause:
Chlorine gas reacts with water in the respiratory tract to form hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acid, causing irritation and damage to respiratory tissues.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure, symptoms presentation, chest X-ray or CT scan to assess lung damage.

Treatment:
Removal from exposure, supportive care with oxygen therapy, bronchodilators for wheezing, corticosteroids for severe inflammation.

Medications:
Bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ), oxygen therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases, often associated with industrial accidents or improper mixing of cleaning agents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Industrial exposure, household accidents, swimming pool maintenance (chlorine release).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; severe exposure can lead to chronic respiratory issues.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS), chronic bronchitis, pulmonary edema.

Ammonia exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
burning sensation in the nose and throat; coughing; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; eye irritation; skin burns

Root Cause:
Ammonia is a caustic substance that causes chemical burns to mucous membranes and tissues upon contact.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure, symptoms presentation, examination of affected tissues, arterial blood gases for respiratory compromise.

Treatment:
Removal from exposure, irrigation of affected skin or eyes with water, oxygen therapy for respiratory distress, supportive care.

Medications:
No specific antidote; symptomatic treatment includes bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) and corticosteroids for severe airway inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases, often in industrial settings or household cleaning accidents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Industrial accidents, improper handling of ammonia-containing products, inadequate ventilation during cleaning.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; severe exposure can lead to permanent respiratory damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chemical burns, reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS), pulmonary edema.

Radon Gas Exposure-Related Lung Cancer

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Chronic Toxicity and Long-Term Exposures

Sub-category: Environmental Exposure

Symptoms:
persistent cough; shortness of breath; chest pain; wheezing; unexplained weight loss; fatigue

Root Cause:
Inhalation of radon gas and its radioactive decay products leads to DNA damage in lung tissues, triggering carcinogenesis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of radon exposure, imaging studies (chest X-ray, CT scan), and lung tissue biopsy to confirm malignancy.

Treatment:
Standard lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

Medications:
Targeted therapies like erlotinib (EGFR inhibitor), pembrolizumab (immune checkpoint inhibitor), or chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin and paclitaxel .

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Second leading cause of lung cancer globally; high in areas with natural radon emission.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in homes with poor ventilation and high radon levels, smoking (amplifies radon effects), and occupational exposure (e.g., mining).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early detection improves survival rates, but late-stage lung cancer often has a poor prognosis.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Metastasis to other organs, respiratory failure, and treatment-related side effects like immunosuppression or toxicity.

Ozone Toxicity

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; shortness of breath; chest tightness; throat irritation; wheezing; increased susceptibility to respiratory infections; worsening of asthma or copd symptoms

Root Cause:
Exposure to high levels of ozone damages lung tissues and triggers inflammation, oxidative stress, and airway hyperresponsiveness.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of exposure to polluted air, pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas analysis, and ruling out other causes of respiratory distress.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure, supportive care with oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, corticosteroids for inflammation, and hospitalization in severe cases.

Medications:
Bronchodilators such as albuterol (a beta-2 agonist) to relieve airway constriction, and inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in urban areas with high pollution levels; ozone is a primary component of smog.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living in industrial or urban areas, outdoor physical activity during high pollution times, preexisting respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms generally improve with reduced exposure and treatment; long-term exposure may lead to chronic respiratory diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), reduced lung function, increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nitrogen Dioxide Exposure

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; wheezing; shortness of breath; irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; worsening of asthma or copd symptoms

Root Cause:
NO2 exposure irritates the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and reduced immune defense in the lungs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on environmental history, pulmonary function tests, and imaging to assess lung damage.

Treatment:
Remove the patient from exposure, provide oxygen therapy, administer bronchodilators, and use corticosteroids in severe cases.

Medications:
Albuterol (beta-2 agonist) for bronchospasm, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation, and mucolytics like acetylcysteine to thin mucus.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects individuals in areas with heavy vehicle traffic or industrial emissions; prevalent in urban and industrial settings.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Living near highways or industrial plants, preexisting respiratory conditions, and occupational exposure (e.g., industrial workers).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute symptoms typically resolve with removal from exposure, but chronic exposure increases the risk of long-term respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Development of asthma, COPD, decreased lung function, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Particulate Matter Exposure (PM2.5, PM10)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Toxic Effects of Environmental Pollutants

Sub-category: Air Pollutants

Symptoms:
coughing; wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; fatigue; irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; worsening of preexisting respiratory or cardiovascular conditions

Root Cause:
Fine and ultrafine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation, oxidative stress, and cardiovascular strain.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Exposure history, pulmonary function tests, imaging for lung abnormalities, and biomarkers for systemic inflammation.

Treatment:
Avoidance of exposure, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators for airway constriction, and anti-inflammatory drugs for severe symptoms.

Medications:
Bronchodilators like salmeterol (long-acting beta-2 agonist) for sustained relief and corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone ) to manage inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Highly prevalent in urban and industrial areas with significant air pollution; PM2.5 is a major health concern worldwide.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Urban living, proximity to industrial zones, smoking, preexisting health conditions, and occupational exposure.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute symptoms can be managed with treatment, but long-term exposure increases the risk of chronic diseases and mortality.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, reduced lung function, and increased mortality risk from respiratory and cardiovascular events.

Aspiration Pneumonitis and Pneumonia

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Symptoms:
cough; fever; dyspnea (shortness of breath); chest pain; wheezing; fatigue; sputum production

Root Cause:
Inhalation of gastric contents, oral secretions, or foreign materials into the lower respiratory tract, causing inflammation or infection.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of aspiration, imaging (chest X-ray, CT scan showing infiltrates in dependent lung areas), sputum culture, and bronchoscopy if necessary.

Treatment:
Supportive care, antibiotics for infection, oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation if severe. Prevention through swallowing rehabilitation or feeding tube placement if indicated.

Medications:
Antibiotics such as clindamycin (lincosamide antibiotic), ampicillin-sulbactam (penicillin combination), or metronidazole (nitroimidazole antibiotic) in combination with other agents to cover anaerobic and aerobic bacteria.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in hospitalized patients, particularly in those with dysphagia, neurological disorders, or altered mental status.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, impaired swallowing, altered consciousness, alcohol abuse, GERD, and prolonged immobility.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; aspiration pneumonitis often resolves with supportive care, while pneumonia may lead to complications without appropriate treatment.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Lung abscess, respiratory failure, sepsis, or chronic aspiration leading to pulmonary fibrosis.

Chlamydial Pneumonias

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Symptoms:
persistent dry cough; low-grade fever; mild fatigue; pharyngitis; wheezing; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Infection caused by Chlamydia pneumoniae or Chlamydia psittaci, leading to atypical pneumonia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serologic testing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and culture of respiratory secretions.

Treatment:
Antibiotics targeting atypical organisms, supportive care, and management of symptoms.

Medications:
Macrolides like azithromycin or clarithromycin , tetracyclines such as doxycycline , or fluoroquinolones like levofloxacin . These antibiotics target the intracellular lifecycle of Chlamydia.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for about 5–15% of community-acquired pneumonia cases.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Close contact with infected individuals, immunosuppression, smoking, and exposure to birds in the case of C. psittaci.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally favorable with prompt treatment; severe cases can occur in older or immunocompromised patients.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, chronic lung disease, or systemic spread in immunocompromised individuals.

Human Metapneumovirus

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Viral Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Symptoms:
cough; runny nose; fever; sore throat; shortness of breath; wheezing

Root Cause:
Viral infection of the respiratory tract caused by human metapneumovirus, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
PCR testing of nasal or throat swabs, viral cultures, or serological testing for specific antibodies.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, antipyretics, and oxygen therapy for severe cases.

Medications:
No specific antiviral therapy; ribavirin has been studied in severe cases, but its use is not standardized.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common cause of respiratory infections, particularly in winter and spring; contributes to 5-10% of pediatric hospitalizations for acute respiratory illness.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age extremes, daycare or school exposure, chronic respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, and immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good, with most cases resolving spontaneously; severe outcomes possible in high-risk groups.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bronchiolitis, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and secondary bacterial infections.

Toxocariasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; abdominal pain; wheezing; blurred vision

Root Cause:
Caused by larvae of Toxocara species, transmitted via ingestion of soil contaminated with animal feces.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, imaging for organ involvement, and clinical symptoms.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic drugs and corticosteroids for severe inflammation.

Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole , both classified as antiparasitics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found worldwide; higher prevalence in areas with poor sanitation.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with contaminated soil, owning pets not dewormed regularly.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; severe cases may result in long-term organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Ocular toxocariasis leading to vision loss, and visceral involvement causing organ damage.

Enterovirus D68

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Respiratory Viruses

Sub-category: Enteroviruses

Symptoms:
fever; cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; runny nose; muscle aches; acute flaccid myelitis (rare)

Root Cause:
Respiratory and occasionally neurological illness caused by Enterovirus D68, leading to inflammation in the respiratory tract or nervous system.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
PCR testing of nasopharyngeal swabs or throat samples; clinical correlation with respiratory symptoms and neurological signs in rare cases.

Treatment:
Supportive care, including oxygen therapy for respiratory distress; mechanical ventilation in severe cases.

Medications:
No specific antiviral medications; supportive care includes bronchodilators for wheezing and corticosteroids for severe inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Seasonal outbreaks, particularly in children, with periodic spikes globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age, asthma, or other chronic respiratory conditions; exposure to infected individuals in schools or daycare centers.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve with supportive care; rare cases of acute flaccid myelitis may lead to long-term disability.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), respiratory failure, and secondary infections.

Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIV) and Other Parainfluenza Viruses

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: COVID-19 Reinfections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; runny nose; wheezing; difficulty breathing; sore throat

Root Cause:
HPIVs cause respiratory infections, primarily affecting the upper and lower respiratory tracts. They can cause croup, bronchiolitis, and pneumonia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, and confirmation can be made through PCR tests, viral cultures, or rapid antigen tests.

Treatment:
Treatment is symptomatic, including hydration, fever management, and respiratory support. In severe cases, supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation may be necessary.

Medications:
Antiviral drugs are not typically used. Supportive medications, such as bronchodilators (e.g., albuterol ) or corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone ) for inflammation, may be prescribed.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
HPIV is common, particularly in children under 5, and outbreaks occur annually, typically in the fall and winter months.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age (especially infants), weakened immune system, and preexisting respiratory conditions.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most individuals recover without long-term complications, but the elderly and immunocompromised individuals may experience more severe disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Can lead to pneumonia, respiratory distress, and other severe respiratory issues in vulnerable populations.

Comprehensive Symptom Navigator™

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Symptoms: