A pneumothorax is a condition in which air accumulates in the pleural space, which can cause the lung to collapse. It can be caused by a variety of things and requires medical treatment from doctors and respiratory therapists. In this article, we will discuss the...
A pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot, typically from the leg, breaks free and travels to the lungs. As a result, the clot can block one or more blood vessels and can be life-threatening. In this article, we will provide an overview of a pulmonary...
A hemothorax is a condition in which blood collects in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This can occur as a result of an injury to the chest, or it may be a complication of a medical procedure. In this article, we will provide an overview of a...
Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that results in inflammation of the epiglottis. This can block the flow of air into the lungs, making it difficult for breathing to occur. In this article, we will provide an overview of epiglottitis, including...
Croup is a viral infection of the upper airway that most often affects children between three months and five years of age. The virus causes the voice box and windpipe to swell, which results in a characteristic bark-like cough. Croup is usually mild and lasts for...
Please visit CDC.gov for the latest information regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19). Respiratory therapists have always been vital members of the healthcare team. This was shown to be especially during the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020 and disrupted the daily...
Pleural effusion is a condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the space between the layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity. This excess fluid can put pressure on the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and difficulty...
Restrictive lung diseases are respiratory disorders that make it difficult for patients to breathe. The most common symptom is shortness of breath, which can make everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult or even impossible. There are several...
Obstructive lung diseases are respiratory disorders that affect the airways and make it difficult for a patient to breathe. There are several different types, which have a few key differences and similarities. In this article, we will provide an overview of the...
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disorder that makes it difficult to breathe. It results in wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, and is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. In this article, we will provide an...