Category Respiratory Diseases

Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children

Causes Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children encompasses a range of breathing difficulties during sleep, from simple snoring to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Common causes include enlarged tonsils and adenoids, which narrow the upper airway. Other contributing factors may involve obesity,…

Asthma

Causes Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental…

Asthma in Children

Introduction Asthma in children is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed. This makes it difficult for children to breathe and can impact their daily activities, sleep, and overall well-being. Asthma often develops…

Pulmonary Emphysema

Introduction Pulmonary emphysema is a chronic lung condition that is part of a group of diseases known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It involves damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, which leads to difficulty in breathing…

Lung Collapse – Pneumothorax

Introduction A pneumothorax, commonly known as a lung collapse, occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall. This air buildup puts pressure on the lung, causing it to partially or completely collapse. Pneumothorax can…

When Children Have Difficulty Breathing

Introduction Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, in children can be a frightening experience for both the child and their caregivers. It indicates that the child is not getting enough oxygen, which can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. Recognizing…

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep. These obstructions lead to pauses in breathing or shallow breaths, resulting in disrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the…

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Introduction Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term, progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It is characterized by persistent airflow limitation and includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is a major cause of…

Snoring

Introduction Snoring is a common condition that occurs when airflow through the mouth and nose is partially blocked during sleep, causing the tissues in the throat to vibrate and produce sound. While snoring is often harmless, it can sometimes indicate…