When your breathing is altered because of a respiratory illness it can significantly impact your life. The team at Family Medical Specialists of Florida, PLC treats both acute and chronic respiratory problems for children and adults. They are experienced at treating disorders like asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and the common cold. For your respiratory evaluation, call or book an appointment online today with their office in Plant City, Florida.
Respiratory Illness Q & A
What is the respiratory system?
The respiratory system is responsible for the delivery of oxygen to the rest of the body. Through the process of breathing, air is taken inside the body, oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged, and the right mixture of oxygen is delivered to the bloodstream and taken to the rest of the body.
The respiratory system is made of a number of structures, which includes:
- Mouth and nose
- Larynx
- Trachea
- Bronchi
- Lungs
Within the lungs is an incredibly complex system of about 300 million gas exchanging pockets, called alveoli. The air you breathe is filtered by the alveoli, which delivers oxygen directly to the bloodstream. The oxygenated blood travels to the heart to be delivered to the rest of the body.
When any part of this system does not work properly, it can have a devastating impact on the rest of the body.
What are some acute respiratory illnesses?
Respiratory conditions can be either acute or chronic — that is, short-term or long-term. Knowledgeable medical care is important in either case.
Some common acute respiratory illnesses include:
- Common cold
- Acute bronchitis
- Upper respiratory infection
- Sinusitis
- Pneumonia
- Laryngitis
- Croup
These conditions often have similar symptoms with varying degrees of severity, like cough, congestion, wheezing, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
Most often, these can be treated at home with medications and rest. However, some acute respiratory conditions like pneumonia or group may need more intense medical attention to treat effectively and prevent progression to severe respiratory distress.
What are some chronic respiratory illnesses?
The most common chronic respiratory conditions are asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The medical professionals at Family Medical Specialists of Florida, PLC are committed to the effective, long-term treatment these and other chronic disorders.
Asthma
Asthma is a condition where the bronchi, or airway, is constricted and does not allow air to flow correctly. This most commonly affects children, and is characterized by wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
COPD
COPD is a general term that refers to progressive respiratory diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. This most commonly worsens as one ages, and is characterized by increasingly diminished airflow and inflammation of the respiratory system.
Diagnosis and monitoring of these conditions may include X-rays, lab work, and pulmonary function tests. Treatments may include inhaled and oral medications, avoidance of triggers, and lifestyle changes.
For your respiratory evaluation, call or book your appointment online today.