Respiratory infections Archive

Walking pneumonia and bronchitis can cause similar symptoms, but walking pneumonia is usually caused by bacteria, and bronchitis typically arises from a virus. Symptoms alone can’t reliably tell the two conditions apart.

Less-recognized symptoms of “classic” pneumonia can include unusual exhaustion, shortness of breath out of proportion to what a person is doing, confusion or sudden mental changes, nausea or loss of appetite, mild fever or none at all, sweating, chills, rapid breathing, or fast heart rate.

A post-cold cough may signal more than a temporary problem. See how reactive airways disease is evaluated and whether risk can be passed to children.

A change in your sense of smell can have many possible explanations. Find out what factors to consider and when discussing it with a doctor may help.

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

Scarlet fever can bring a telltale rash, fever, and sore throat. Explore how it spreads, how it’s treated, and what recovery may involve.

Suspected sarcoidosis can involve several tests, and the path to diagnosis may depend on where doctors can safely find useful tissue.

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

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.