Definition of Respiratory Diseases

The respiratory diseases are those that affect the various structures that make up the respiratory system.

These diseases can affect the nose, sinuses, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs, or the pleura.

Its nature is variable. The most common respiratory diseases are those of an infectious and allergic type, however there may also be congenital malformations, acquired defects, degenerative diseases and malignant.

Respiratory diseases are more common in children

Children are often affected by respiratory diseases. This relates to two main facts.

On the one hand, the airway is a source of microorganisms that can be inhaled from air and enter the body to cause an infectious process, especially in the case of children who have an immature immune system do not have the antibodies to help fight these infections On the other hand, many particles in the environment can also enter the respiratory system causing allergies.

Main symptoms associated with respiratory diseases

These diseases cause symptoms such as Nasal congestion and obstruction, presence of mucus and discharge, sneezing, sore throat, voice changes such as hoarseness, cough, difficulty breathing and chest pain with the side.

It is also possible that general symptoms occur, that is, they include structures outside the respiratory system. The main general symptom that accompanies these diseases is fever, although the general malaise, poor appetite, and insomnia.

Most common types of respiratory infections

Upper respiratory infection. It is known as upper respiratory infection to the affection of the nose, paranasal sinuses and larynx, they are also included in this classification ear infections. Its main cause is the common cold, caused by viruses such as influenza. It can also cause infections by bacteriaThese are usually located mainly at the level of the ears and paranasal sinuses. Upper respiratory infections include rhinitis, sinusitis, rhinosinusitis, otitis, and laryngitis.

Lower respiratory infection. Covers infections of the trachea, bronchi, and lungs. These infections can be due to any type of microorganism, viruses being more common. This includes tracheobronchitis, bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, and pneumonia.

Respiratory allergies. Allergies are often confused with conditions like the common cold. These are characterized by producing congestion, although their main manifestation are sneezing, itchy eyes and nose.

Obstructive airway diseases. They correspond to bronchial asthma, pulmonary emphysema and disease obstructive pulmonary chronicle. Both conditions generate constrictions in the bronchi affecting the passage of air through them, so it is trapped accompanied by a significant sensation of respiratory distress.

Restrictive diseases. These are conditions in which there are alterations in the membrane that surrounds the lungs, known as the pleura, or the elements that make up the rib cage. These affect the ability of the lungs to expand, thus reducing ventilation. This includes arthritis and deformities of the spine and immune diseases that affect the skin such as scleroderma.

Malignant diseases. The various structures of the respiratory system can be the seat of malignant diseases such as cancer. This is located more frequently in the lungs, being closely related to antecedents such as habit smoking cigarettes. The lungs can also be affected by metastases from tumors located in other organs.

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