Respiratory infections Archive

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.

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.

As a sunken chest becomes more noticeable with age, shortness of breath, stamina limits, and heart or lung compression may emerge.

Lung scarring from pulmonary fibrosis can cause breathlessness and cough. Learn about symptom relief and newer treatment options.

A lung nodule on imaging can stem from scars, infection, or cancer. Learn how doctors judge the risk and decide between watching, testing, or removal.