A respiratory infection hinders breathing, causing distress to the lungs. This type of infection can be particularly dangerous for people who have certain preexisting conditions, susceptibilities, or a compromised immune system.
Let’s talk about some of the common respiratory infections and what you can do about them.
Respiratory Infections Often Seen by Doctors
A few of the most frequently treated lung conditions include the following:
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes periodic episodes of breathing problems, including wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Additional symptoms can include chest pain or tightness.
Asthma is caused by inflammation and narrowing of airways in the lungs due to swelling, and it results in heavy mucus production. It ranges in severity in those who have this condition, and people who have a serious form of asthma can develop a life-threatening event – which is why treatment is crucial.
There’s no cure for asthma, though the symptoms can be controlled through inhalers, corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, beta agonists, and theophylline.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis occurs due to inflammation within the lining of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. The bronchial tubes are responsible for transporting air back and forth from the lungs during breathing.
The condition is characterized by off-colored mucus that is expelled when coughing. A person with bronchitis will find it difficult to breathe, and they may experience chest pain, shallow breathing, and wheezing.
Acute bronchitis usually resolves itself naturally within a couple of weeks, but chronic bronchitis requires treatment by a doctor. Your physician can give you an evaluation and determine whether you warrant special treatment.
Emphysema
This lung disease is characterized by shortness of breath, as the air sacs in the lungs are damaged and therefore don’t work properly. Many people who have emphysema also have chronic bronchitis.
Emphysema tends to be caused by frequent exposure to smoke, air pollution, dust, and chemical fumes. It tends to become worse with the common cold or flu.
Urgent Care Clinic in Rochester, New York
If you are experiencing an unusual cough, breathing issues, or respiratory issues that don’t seem to go away, Cornerstone Urgent Care Center is here for you. Our medical team diagnoses and treats non-life-threatening conditions, and we can quickly evaluate you and get you on the road to recovery.
If you have any questions, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (585) 207-0088, or fill out our online contact form to send us a message. We look forward to helping you feel as good as new as quickly as possible.
