Respiratory Diseases

 

Respiratory Quality Services specializes in treating patients with Respiratory problems.  Respiratory problems can have symptoms ranging from mild to severe.  In any case, breathing trouble can be both frightening and debilitating.  Here are some examples of Respiratory Diseases that we can help you manage:

 

Asthma - Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways.  Asthma causes periods of wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and tightness in the chest.  Asthma attacks can be caused by environmental allergies and even exercise.  The cornerstones of Asthma treatment include avoiding allergic triggers and the use of proper medication.  Mediations for Asthma include those things that control inflammation (steroids) and help open the airways (bronchodilators).  These medication are often delivered with a nebulizer machine.

 

Emphysema - Emphysema is one type of COPD that involves damage to the air sacs of the lungs.  This damage destroys these air sacs and prevents you from moving air in and out of your lungs properly.  As a result, your body does not get the oxygen that it needs and you are not able to get rid of carbon dioxide.  Smoking is by far the most common cause of Emphysema.  Treatment for the disease involves smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation and symptom management.  Like Asthma, treatment with inhaled medications is often very helpful.  Home oxygen is also a standard treatment when blood oxygen levels fall.  Severe COPD can lead to Respiratory Failure.  When this happens, the patient may need assistance with their breathing which may include the use of a home ventilator.

 

Chronic Bronchitis – Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways in the lung.  This inflammation leads to a cough, excessive mucous production, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.  The most common cause of Chronic Bronchitis is cigarette smoking.  Like Emphysema, treatment for Chronic Bronchitis includes smoking cessation and inhaled medications.

 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)-  Collectively, Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis are known as COPD.  The most common cause of COPD is cigarette smoking.  Currently, there is no “cure” for COPD.  However, with proper symptom management, many patients can continue to enjoy a good quality of life for many years.  COPD treatment generally includes home oxygen therapy, inhaled medications, breathing retraining and infection prevention.  In all cases, smoking cessation is required for successful symptom management.  Severe COPD can lead to Respiratory Failure.  When this happens, the patient may need assistance with their breathing which may include the use of a home ventilator.