Respiratory health Archive

A cough that lingers for weeks after a cold can be confusing. Learn why it can persist, what else might be going on, and when to see your doctor.

Walking pneumonia is a mild form of pneumonia that typically doesn’t stop people from undertaking normal daily activities. Early symptoms can include sore throat, fatigue, mild fever or chills, headache, and a runny or stuffy nose. As it progresses, people may develop a persistent dry cough, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath with exertion.

Some common causes of shortness of breath include lung and heart conditions, asthma, COPD, infections, anxiety, and anemia. Dr. David Roberts reviews warning signs that require urgent medical attention

A positive TB skin test can raise questions about infection, exposure, and what happens next. Find out which follow-up steps may be needed.

Morning congestion can stem from allergies, medications, or nasal problems—even in winter. Find out what may be behind it and how to ease it.

Calcium deposits in the lungs can follow infections, bleeding, high calcium levels, or past exposures. Doctors will review imaging test results and medical history to help clarify their significance.

Early symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be subtle and progress slowly. They include shortness of breath, chronic cough, fatigue, increased mucus or phlegm, and intermittent wheezing or chest tightness.

People may cough more at night or in the morning due to phlegm or throat irritation that affects the airways when they’re lying flat. Coughing helps clear mucus and other secretions that collect there.

Blood tests can show recent nicotine use, how heavily you’ve been exposed, and why traces may still appear days after your last cigarette.

In most cases, bee, wasp, or hornet stings can be treated with simple remedies. For example, placing a cold pack on the sting site helps reduce swelling. Applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream helps relieve swelling and itching, too. Taking an antihistamine—such as fexofenadine (Allegra) or loratadine (Claritin)—also eases itching. If symptoms persist for a few days, it’s time to call a doctor. If a severe allergic response develops—indicated by difficulty breathing or hives—it’s crucial to call 911 for help and get an injection of epinephrine as soon as possible.