The human respiratory system includes the nose, throat, larynx (voice box), trachea (wind pipe) and lungs. Diseases of the human respiratory system cause one or more of these structures to become inflamed or infected, interfering with your ability to breathe. While some of these diseases are acute and treatable with medication or lifestyle modifications, other conditions are chronic and progressive in nature, leading to worsening breathing problems over time.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the airways in the lungs. The tissues lining the bronchial tubes of those with asthma are particularly sensitive and can easily become irritated in response to cold temperatures, wind, exercise and allergens in the air or food. Irritation causes inflammation, which leads to wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. At times, these flare-ups can cause asthma attacks in which the airways close so severely that the vital organs do not get the oxygen they need. Asthma symptoms can be controlled with inhalers, steroid medications and other drugs, and lifestyle modifications.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that causes coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and excessive mucous production. It is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person. There is no cure for COPD, and, while there are treatments that help with the symptoms, it can progress to the point that it interferes with your basic daily functions.
COPD includes two respiratory health conditions, bronchitis and emphysema. Emphysema is most commonly caused by cigarette smoking and is characterized by a chronic cough, trouble breathing during strenuous activity or exercise, and a feeling of having a hard time catching your breath. The body fails to get the oxygen it needs because smoking has caused damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs.
Bronchitis may be acute or chronic, and is caused by an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes that carry air from our lungs. While it can be caused by irritation due to smoking, it is commonly the result of a bacterial infection.
Infections
Many breathing problems and conditions of the human respiratory system are the result of infection.
Influenza (flu) is a respiratory infection caused by a virus. Common symptoms of the flu include body aches, nausea and vomiting, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, fever and fatigue. The flu is usually spread through respiratory droplets that enter the air when a person coughs or sneezes.
Pneumonia is a potentially serious illness caused by an inflammation of the lungs secondary to a bacterial, viral or fungal infection.
Tuberculosis is a highly contagious disease caused by infection from the bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The germ attacks the lungs but can affect other parts of the body, as well. It causes symptoms such as a severe cough that may bring up blood or mucus, night sweats, fever, chills, weight loss, weakness and fatigue, and it can be deadly.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer may have serious effects on the human respiratory system. Many kinds of lung cancers will cause a persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness and coughing up blood. Lung cancer can also lead to other respiratory problems like pneumonia and bronchitis.
