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Frequently Asked Questions About Lung Diseases

Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) are provided to improve your understanding of the many lung diseases. What is a lung disease? What are the signs and symptoms of the common lung diseases? How are these lung diseases diagnosed? How are these lung diseases prevented? What guides are available for lung disease patient? Get answers to your questions about common lung diseases.
What is an Expectorant?
With the latest commercials for Mucinex® (Guaifenesin), an expectorant that loosens mucus in the airways, many people are wondering, "What is an expectorant?" Learn about expectorants and how to help to clear the airways and allow for better breathing.
What is Chronic Cough?
Have you had a cough that you can't seem to shake? How long have you had the cough? If you've had a cough for longer than 2-3 weeks, you may have a chronic cough. Read more about chronic cough.
What Causes Chronic Cough?
Have you been suffering from a chronic cough? What could be the underlying cause of your chronic cough? The only way to treat your chronic cough is to find out what is causing it. Find out the common causes of chronic cough and why these conditions cause chronic cough to occur.
What is Considered to be Good Lung Capacity?
When you are tested for your total lung capacity, you are given a percentage that represents your total lung capacity. But what does this percentage mean? What is considered to be a "good" lung capacity?
What is a Lung Disease?
Lung disease is fully explained, including prevalence, type of lung disease, common lung diseases, cause and signs and symptoms of lung disease, diagnostic testing and treatment for lung disease, and what to do if you suspect you have a lung disease. Tips for lowering risk of lung disease are also provided.
How Do the Lungs Work?
To understand disease and how diseases affect the lungs, it is important to first understand how the lungs work. Read how air flows in and out of the lungs and how oxygen is exchanged.
What Happens During Respiration?
Respiration involves many muscles within the chest cavity and is driven by air pressure within the lungs and outside of the body. Find out what happens during inspiration and expiration.
I've Just Been Diagnosed with a Lung Disease. What Should I Do Now?
Being diagnosed with a lung disease can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Many people feel alone and may not know what to do once they have been diagnosed. These suggestions will help give you direction.
How Do I Tell My Children I Have Been Diagnosed With A Lung Disease?
Every person has a different way of handling news that a loved one has cancer. Many parents don't want to burden their child or children with worries and fears about their sickness. But even the youngest children can sense when something is wrong. Get some tips about how to tell your children.
Which Lung Diseases Are Most Commonly Found in Women?
Find out what the most common lung diseases in women include and get basic information for each lung disease.
Are Metered Dose Inhalers Better Than Nebulizers?
Has your doctor given you a choice between metered dose inhaler and a nebulizer? Did your doctor suggest one delivery device over the other? How can you decide which one is better? This article provides a brief comparison of the metered dose inhaler and the nebulizer.
What Should I Take With Me to the Hospital?
Whether you are scheduled for a short or long stay at the hospital, you will want to be sure to take the things you will need during your stay. Here's a checklist you can use when packing for your hospital stay.
What Happens When A Child Becomes Submerged?
Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children. It typically occurs in children between the ages of 1 and 4 years old and in teenage boys, and is generally caused by non-supervision, horseplay, and daredevil stunts. Find out what happens during a drowning/near-drowning accident and how aspiration of water affects the lungs.
Can Too Much Oxygen Be Harmful?
We breathe oxygen, so how can it be toxic? How much is too much? Find out the answers to these and other questions about oxygen.
What is Histoplasmosis?
Bacteria and mold are not the only causes of lung infections. Fungus, such as those found in soil and bird droppings, can also cause lung infections. Find out about histoplasmosis and how you can avoid exposure to this infectious fungus.
Ask the Experts - Get Your Questions About Lung Diseases Answered
Do you have a question about your lung disease? Have you been searching the internet, and just can't seem to find the answer you've been looking for? Maybe you just need clarification about something your doctor explained to you at your last office visit. Maybe you just need a definition to a word you recently heard. Whatever the question, I will help you find the answer. Read more...
What is the Difference Between a Sign & a Symptom?
What is a sign? What is a symptom? These terms are sometimes used interchangeably due to a misunderstanding of their definitions. Learn their differences and get examples of each.
Warning Signs: When Should I Consult My Doctor?
How do you know when you should consult your doctor? Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to help decide when you should call your doctor. Never second guess yourself again.
My doctor says I'm at risk of having my baby prematurely. What can I expect if this happens?
The arrival of a new baby can be a wonderful experience. However when complications occur, parents feel an array of emotions, including helplessness, intense vulnerability, and powerlessness. Many parents feel ill prepared and don't know how to deal with the situation. Find out what you will need to know if your baby is born prematurely.
I am applying for a new job. Do I need to tell the employer about my Lung Disease?
You've survived your lung disease treamtment and you want to return to work. You've decided to apply for a new job. Do you need to tell your potential employer about your lung disease history? Find out how to handle disclosure of your medical history.
I'm on Oxygen Therapy & I Have to Travel. What Do I Need to Know Before I Go?
Living with a lung disease brings many challenges, especially when you need supplemental oxygen and you want to travel. Find out what you need to know before traveling by air, land and sea. Don't leave home without reading this first.
What is the Difference Between Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome - ARDS - and Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome - IRDS?
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome - ARDS - and Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome - IRDS - are life-threatening conditions caused by low blood oxygen levels in the air sacs - alveoli - of the lungs. While they share some similarities, their causes and treatments are different.
What is a Bone Mineral Density Scan?
Bone mineral density scans are important to monitoring your bone health, especially as you age. Find out how this scan detects bone brittleness.
What is the Difference Between Reactive Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS) and Irritant Induced Asthma (IIA)?
There are many respiratory illnesses caused by irritants in the workplace and at home. Find out what Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS) and Irritant Induced Asthma (IIA) are and how they differ.
Viral vs. Bacterial Infection: What's the Difference?
Discover the differences between viral and bacterial infections.
How Are Infectious Diseases Spread?
Discover the many ways that infectious diseases are spread and how you can reduce your chances of infection.

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