Atypical pneumonia is pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Legionella pneumophila bacterial pathogens. Basically, the lung area that absorbs needed oxygen, the alveoli, get infected so pulmonary function...
As defined by the U.K. company Accepta, a Jacuzzi is a luxurious big tub or a small pool containing warm water designed for sitting instead of swimming. Jacuzzis provide hours of relaxation and massage and the temperature of the water is usually...
According to the Mayo Clinic, Legionnaires' disease refers to a serious form of pneumonia that was first identified in 1976 at an American Legion convention. The bacterium that causes this disease is called Legionella. It can only be contracted...
Bacteria are microscopic organisms that live in the air, soil and water, on surfaces, and in and on the human body. They are the smallest free-living organisms, meaning they support their own growth and reproduction. These organisms are only about...
The term "atypical pneumonia" is a general reference to any pneumonia that is unusual in terms of the causative infectious germ, the symptoms or the clinical course. Medical professionals sometimes use the term to refer specifically to pneumonias...
Communicable diseases transfer from one person to another by contact with body fluids, through the air from a cough or sneeze and by touching an infected surface. High-risk areas for the spread of communicable diseases include schools, daycare...
The symptoms of respiratory system diseases can often overlap and cause confusion over the exact pathology affecting the patient. A very common question faced by primary care physicians is whether a patient has bronchitis or pneumonia and, if so,...
Pathogenic bacteria are those that invade the human body and cause disease. Once in the body, the bacteria multiply potentially causing cellular damage. Many pathogenic bacteria produce toxins and other proteins that accelerate tissue invasion and...
The term "walking pneumonia" or "atypical pneumonia" is used in cases where there are symptoms of pneumonia which are not severe enough to require bed rest or hospitalization. The symptoms can be so mild that treatment or diagnosis is not sought....
Pneumonia, an infection of the lungs, can be caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria. Bacterial pneumonia tends to be the most dangerous type and also the most common in adults. In healthy individuals, bacterial pneumonia can usually be treated...
The lungs are prone to infections because lung tissue is designed to interact with the outside world (via breathing) but is fragile enough that it can be damaged easily. Lung infections, also known as infectious pneumonia, can range from fairly...
The Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, states that water from natural sources, including hand dug wells, contain impurities and bacteria that can be harmful to digestion. The best way to make sure you are drinking water that is free of...
Hot tubs are enjoyable after a difficult workout or a hard day's work. Most people who have them enjoy their warmth and the resulting feelings of relaxation. Hot tubs have been around for centuries and have soothed many tight muscles....
Sodium, calcium, potassium and phosphate are essential electrolytes in keeping the body functioning. Electrolyte imbalances are known as hyponatremia and hypernatremia, or too little and too much sodium; hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia, or too...
The occurrence of toxic chemicals in drinking water supplies has been on the rise over the past few decades, primarily as a result of increased manufacturing, soil erosion and agriculture. Many heavy metals and pesticides have been monitored for...
Indoor air pollutants come in the form of gases and air particles and are mainly due to poor ventilation. When ventilation in the home is inadequate, pollutants build up to high levels and tend to linger for long periods of time. High...
Coughing is a normal reflex that helps keep the lungs clean by forcefully propelling accumulated mucus and debris from the airways. Inhalation of dusty air, secondhand smoke or air pollutants typically triggers a coughing episode. Repetitive or...
Rifampin is an antibiotic medication used for tuberculosis and may be used to treat a staph infection, legionella or meningitis, according to Drugs.com. While an effective medication in treating certain infections, the effects of rifampin may be...
Soaking your ailing body in water is an ancient practice that continues to be used today to promote healing. A fitness whirlpool allows you to soak your injured or sore muscles and joints in either hot or cold water. While whirlpools are intended...
Bacteria and other pathogens are nearly omnipresent in our world. While our immune system has the ability to protect the body from their harmful effects, it is when these invaders reach toxic levels that infection can occur. Bacterial and other...