By Manrique Iriarte, MD, FACP, Internal Medicine Physician at Millennium Physician Group
Respiratory conditions are among the most common health problems in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. Some are mild and manageable, while others can be life-threatening if ignored. As a physician, I often remind my patients that even healthy people can develop serious breathing issues. Recognizing the signs early and seeking medical attention can make all the difference.
Let’s walk through some of the most common
respiratory conditions, from mild to severe, and talk about when it’s time to see your doctor.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe. It often begins in childhood, but it can also appear later in life, especially in seniors.
Asthma symptoms include:
• Wheezing
• Persistent coughing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
The good news is that asthma is reversible with proper treatment. If you or your child experiences frequent wheezing or shortness of breath, it’s
important to see your doctor to develop a
personalized management plan.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which can fill with fluid or pus. It may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Symptoms range from mild to severe and include:
• Cough, sometimes producing phlegm
• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain when coughing or breathing
• Fatigue
Certain groups, such as children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, are more at risk for complications. Immunizations for pneumonia, frequent handwashing, and the flu shot can help reduce your risk.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Not all respiratory conditions appear during the day. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep, causing repeated pauses in breathing.
Signs of OSA include:
• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
OSA is more common in people who are older, overweight, or have a family history of the condition. Left untreated, it can raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, and dementia.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is an umbrella term for progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Unlike asthma, COPD is not reversible. It’s most often linked to smoking, but long-term exposure to air pollution or workplace irritants can also play a role. Common symptoms of COPD include:
• Persistent cough with mucus
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Fatigue
COPD can be difficult to detect, as early symptoms often mimic the natural aging process. Because COPD is a leading cause of death in the U.S, it’s essential to talk to your doctor if you are concerned or notice any symptoms. Anyone with a history of smoking or chronic respiratory issues should be evaluated by their physician.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the U.S. Smoking is the top risk factor, but secondhand smoke, radon exposure, and workplace hazards like asbestos or diesel fumes can also increase risk.
Symptoms often take years to appear and may include:
• Chronic cough, sometimes with blood
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing or harsh breathing sounds
• Chest pain
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
Early detection is critical, and screenings are available for people at higher risk, especially long-term smokers. If you have a history of smoking, ask your physician about whether lung cancer screening is right for you.
MillenniumPhysician Group
800 Goodlette Road N, Suite 200
Naples, FL 34102
239.302.3300 | MillenniumPhysician.com
This information is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis or treatment. No physician-patient relationship is created by this or its use.