Pneumonia

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection in one or both lungs. It causes the air sacs (alveoli) to fill with fluid or pus, making breathing difficult.

The illness can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on:

• The type of germ causing the infection
• Your age
• Your overall health

What Causes Pneumonia?

Pneumonia can be caused by:

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Fungi

Bacterial Pneumonia

Bacteria are the most common cause. It may develop on its own or after a viral infection like a cold or flu.

Common bacterial causes include:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Legionella pneumophila (causes Legionnaires’ disease)
• Mycoplasma pneumoniae
• Chlamydia pneumoniae
• Haemophilus influenzae

Viruses that infect the respiratory tract can cause pneumonia. It is often mild but can become serious.

Common viral causes include:

• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Influenza viruses
• SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19)

People with viral pneumonia may also develop bacterial pneumonia.

Fungal Pneumonia

More common in people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions.

Examples include:

• Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)
• Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever)
• Histoplasmosis
• Cryptococcus

Who Is at Risk?

Risk increases if you:

• Are under age 2 or over age 65
• Smoke or use heavy alcohol
• Are malnourished
• Are hospitalized, especially in the ICU
• Have lung disease
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have difficulty swallowing or coughing
• Recently had a cold or flu

Symptoms of Pneumonia

Symptoms range from mild to severe:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough (often with phlegm)
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Older adults may have subtle symptoms, including confusion or a lower-than-normal temperature.

Possible Complications

Pneumonia can lead to serious conditions such as:

• Bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream)
• Septic shock
• Lung abscess
• Pleural effusion
• Kidney failure
• Respiratory failure

Diagnosis

Your provider may use:

• Medical history and physical exam
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests (CBC, blood cultures)
• Sputum test
• CT scan
• Pulse oximetry
• Bronchoscopy

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause:

• Antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia
• Antivirals for some viral cases
• Antifungals for fungal infections

Severe cases may require hospitalization and oxygen therapy. Recovery can take from one week to a month or more.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk by:

• Getting vaccinated (pneumococcal and flu vaccines)
• Practicing good hygiene
• Not smoking
• Maintaining overall health

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

What Is Pneumocystis jirovecii?

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a common fungus. Many people are exposed in childhood and never get sick.

However, it can cause serious infection in people with weakened immune systems, including those who:

• Have HIV
• Have cancer
• Have auto-immune disease
• Have chronic lung disease
• Have had organ or bone marrow transplants
• Take immunosuppressive medicines

What Is PCP?

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a fungal infection of the lungs caused by P. jirovecii.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Cough
• Trouble breathing
• Chest pain
• Chills
• Fatigue

PCP can be life-threatening without treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may require:

• Sputum sample
• Bronchoalveolar lavage
• Lung biopsy

Treatment

• Antibiotics (oral or IV) for about 3 weeks
• Hospital care for severe cases

There is no vaccine, but preventive antibiotics may be prescribed for high-risk individuals.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The bacteria grow in man-made water systems, such as:

• Hot tubs
• Fountains
• Cooling towers
• Plumbing systems in large buildings

It does not spread from person to person.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

You are at greater risk if you:

• Are over age 50
• Smoke
• Have a chronic illness
• Have lung disease
• Have a weakened immune system
• Recently stayed in a hospital

Symptoms

Symptoms appear 2–14 days after exposure:

• Cough
• High fever
• Chills
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Confusion

About 1 in 10 people who get Legionnaires’ disease die from complications.

Treatment

Early treatment improves outcomes.

• Hospital care
• Antibiotics

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

HIV weakens the immune system by destroying infection-fighting white blood cells. This increases the risk of opportunistic infections (OIs).

Examples include:

• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC)
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• Hepatitis C
• Cryptococcal meningitis
• Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)
• Toxoplasmosis

Taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the most important step in preventing infections.

Health Effects

Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body and causes nearly 1 in 5 deaths in the United States.

It can cause:

• Multiple cancers
• COPD
• Worsened asthma
• Pneumonia
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Cataracts
• Macular degeneration

It also increases pregnancy complications and SIDS risk.

Secondhand Smoke

Exposure can cause:

• Lung cancer
• Heart disease
• Asthma in children
• Ear infections
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia

Other Tobacco Products

• Cigars and hookahs contain harmful chemicals and nicotine
• E-cigarettes contain nicotine and harmful aerosols
• Smokeless tobacco increases cancer and heart disease risk

Benefits of Quitting

Immediate benefits include:

• Lower heart rate and blood pressure
• Reduced carbon monoxide levels
• Improved circulation
• Less coughing and wheezing

There is no safe level of tobacco use.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

What Is Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis.

It often causes no symptoms, which means many people do not know they are infected. However, untreated chlamydia can lead to serious health complications.

The infection is curable with antibiotics.

How Is Chlamydia Spread?

Chlamydia spreads through:

• Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection
• Childbirth (from mother to baby)

You can become reinfected even after treatment if you have unprotected sex with an infected partner.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Chlamydia is more common in:

• Sexually active young adults, especially women under 25
• People with multiple sexual partners
• Individuals who do not consistently use condoms

Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may appear weeks after exposure.

In Women:

• Abnormal vaginal discharge (possibly with strong odor)
• Burning during urination
• Lower abdominal pain
• Pain during sex
• Fever or nausea (if infection spreads)

In Men

• Penile discharge
• Burning during urination
• Pain or swelling in one or both testicles (less common)

Rectal Infection (Men or Women):

• Rectal pain
• Discharge
• Bleeding

Complications

Untreated chlamydia can lead to:

In Women:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Infertility
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Chronic pelvic pain

In Men:

• Epididymitis (painful inflammation near the testicles)
• Rarely, infertility

In Both:

• Reactive arthritis
• Increased risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV

In Newborns:

• Eye infections
• Pneumonia
• Premature birth

Testing Recommendations

You should get tested if:

• You have symptoms
• Your partner has an STI
• You are pregnant

Annual screening is recommended for:

• Sexually active women 25 and younger
• Older women with new or multiple partners
• Men who have sex with men (MSM)

Treatment

• Antibiotics (single dose or 7-day course)
• Avoid sexual activity until treatment is completed
• Retest about 3 months after treatment
• Antibiotics cure the infection but cannot reverse permanent damage

Prevention

• Abstinence is the only guaranteed prevention
• Correct and consistent condom use reduces risk

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is Chronic Bronchitis?

Chronic bronchitis is a type of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It involves long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to mucus buildup and difficulty breathing.

Many people with COPD have both chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Causes

The most common cause is:

• Long-term cigarette smoking

Other causes include:

• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Chemical fumes
• Occupational dust exposure
• Rarely, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (genetic condition)

Risk Factors

• Smoking (primary risk factor)
• Age 40+
• Long-term exposure to lung irritants
• Family history of COPD

Symptoms

Symptoms often worsen over time:

• Chronic cough with mucus
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Swelling in ankles or legs (advanced cases)

Diagnosis

May include:

• Medical history
• Lung function tests
• Chest X-ray or CT scan
• Blood tests

Treatment

There is no cure, but treatment helps manage symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Quit smoking
• Avoid lung irritants
• Maintain proper nutrition
• Engage in appropriate physical activity

Medications:

• Bronchodilators
• Inhaled steroids
• Antibiotics (for infections)

Other Treatments:

• Vaccines (flu and pneumococcal)
• Oxygen therapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Lung transplant (severe cases)

Prevention

• Do not smoke
• Avoid secondhand smoke and pollutants

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant derived from the coca plant. It is typically an illegal drug, though rarely used medically for anesthesia.

Forms include:

• Powder cocaine (snorted or injected)
• Crack cocaine (smoked)

Short-Term Effects

• Increased energy
• Alertness
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Increased heart rate

Serious risks include:

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Seizures
• Coma

Long-Term Effects

Effects depend on usage method:

• Nasal damage (snorting)
• Lung damage (smoking)
• Collapsed veins and infections (injecting)

Other risks include:

• Malnutrition
• Movement disorders
• Addiction
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Cocaine use disorder

Overdose Risks

Overdose may cause:

• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Seizures
• Irregular heartbeat

There is no specific medication for a cocaine overdose.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on behavioral therapies. There are currently no FDA-approved medications for cocaine use disorder.

Source: NIH – National Institute on Drug Abuse

A collapsed lung occurs when air enters the space between the lung and chest wall.

Causes include:

• Lung disease
• Injury
• Mechanical ventilation
• Surgery
• Airway blockage

Symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heart rate

Diagnosis is usually confirmed with a chest X-ray. Treatment depends on severity and cause.

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

A coma is a deep state of unconsciousness in which a person cannot respond to their environment.

Causes include:

• Brain injury
• Severe illness
• Stroke
• Infection

Most comas last less than 2–4 weeks.

Outcomes vary widely depending on cause and severity. Some individuals recover fully; others may have lasting physical or cognitive effects.

Source: NIH – National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

What Is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a mild infection of the upper respiratory tract, which includes the nose and throat. It is one of the most frequent illnesses worldwide.

• Adults typically get 2–3 colds per year
• Children usually get even more
• Most common in fall and winter, but can occur year-round

What Causes the Common Cold?

More than 200 viruses can cause a cold. The most common are rhinoviruses.

Colds spread easily through:

• Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Close personal contact
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth

Symptoms

Symptoms usually begin a few days after exposure and may last 10–14 days.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Headache

Treatment

There is no cure for the common cold. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.

Helpful measures include:

• Rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Using a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer
• Gargling with warm salt water
• Saline nasal sprays or drops
• Over-the-counter (OTC) pain and cold medicines

Important Safety Notes:

• Children and teens should not take aspirin
• Some OTC cold medicines are not recommended for young children
• Avoid taking multiple products that contain the same pain reliever

Antibiotics do not work for colds because they treat bacterial—not viral—infections.

When to Contact a Provider

Seek medical advice if symptoms include:

• Trouble breathing
• Dehydration
• Fever lasting more than 4 days
• Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
• Symptoms that improve but then worsen
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

Complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia are more common in people with weakened immune systems or respiratory conditions.

Prevention

There is no vaccine for the common cold, but you can reduce risk by:

• Washing hands frequently (20 seconds with soap and water)
• Avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Staying home when sick

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is COPD?

COPD is a group of progressive lung diseases that make breathing difficult.

In healthy lungs:

• Airways are elastic
• Air sacs expand and deflate easily

With COPD:

• Airways lose elasticity
• Air sacs are damaged
• Airway walls thicken and become inflamed
• Excess mucus may block airflow

Types of COPD

• Emphysema – damage to air sacs
• Chronic bronchitis – long-term airway inflammation and mucus production

Most people with COPD have features of both.

Causes

The primary cause in the United States is cigarette smoking.

Other causes include:

• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Workplace chemical exposure
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (rare genetic condition)

Risk Factors

• Smoking (current or former)
• Age 40 or older
• Long-term exposure to lung irritants
• Family history of COPD
• Asthma

Symptoms

Symptoms worsen over time and may include:

• Chronic cough with mucus
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness
• Frequent respiratory infections

Severe COPD may cause:

• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness
• Swelling in ankles or legs

Diagnosis

Diagnosis may include:

• Medical and family history
• Lung function tests (spirometry)
• Chest X-ray or CT scan
• Blood tests

Treatment

There is no cure, but treatment helps manage symptoms and slow progression.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Quit smoking (most important step)
• Avoid lung irritants
• Maintain proper nutrition
• Engage in appropriate physical activity

Medications:

• Bronchodilators
• Inhaled steroids
• Antibiotics (for infections)

Additional Treatments:

• Flu and pneumococcal vaccines
• Oxygen therapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Surgery or lung transplant (severe cases)

Prevention

• Do not smoke
• Avoid exposure to lung irritants

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

What Is CMV?

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus related to the viruses that cause chickenpox and mononucleosis.

• 50–80% of U.S. adults have been infected by age 40
• Once infected, CMV stays in the body for life

Most healthy people have no symptoms

How CMV Spreads

CMV spreads through close contact with body fluids such as:

• Saliva
• Blood
• Urine
• Breast milk

Who Is at Risk?

CMV can be serious for:

• Newborns (if infected during pregnancy)
• People with weakened immune systems
• Some infected babies may develop long-term disabilities

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Blood tests can confirm infection
• Most healthy people do not need treatment
• Antiviral medications may be used in high-risk individuals
• Good hand hygiene can help reduce spread

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is Delirium?

Delirium is a sudden change in mental status that causes confusion, disorientation, and difficulty thinking clearly.

It is often temporary and treatable.

Types

• Hypoactive – drowsy, withdrawn
• Hyperactive – restless, agitated
• Mixed – alternating symptoms

Causes

Common causes include:

• Infections
• Medication side effects
• Alcohol or drug withdrawal
• Dehydration
• Severe illness
• Surgery or anesthesia

Risk Factors

• Older age
• Dementia
• Hospitalization
• Serious illness
• High-dose pain medications

Symptoms

• Sudden confusion
• Changes in alertness
• Disorganized thinking
• Sleep disturbances
• Emotional changes
• Hallucinations

Treatment

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Supportive care may include:

• Quiet, well-lit environment
• Clocks and calendars for orientation
• Family presence
• Managing pain and agitation

Prevention

Hospitals can reduce risk by:

• Minimizing sedative use
• Maintaining calm, well-lit rooms
• Encouraging consistent caregiving

Source: NIH – National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

What Is Emphysema?

Emphysema is a type of COPD that damages the air sacs in the lungs. The damaged air sacs lose elasticity and may merge into larger air spaces, reducing oxygen exchange.

Causes

• Long-term smoking (main cause)
• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Workplace exposure
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (rare genetic cause)

Symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chronic cough
• Chest tightness
• Frequent respiratory infections

Severe cases may cause:

• Weight loss
• Muscle weakness
• Swelling in lower extremities

Diagnosis

• Medical history
• Lung function tests
• Imaging tests
• Blood tests

Treatment

There is no cure, but treatments include:

Lifestyle:

• Quit smoking
• Avoid irritants
• Maintain healthy diet and activity

Medications:

• Bronchodilators
• Inhaled steroids
• Antibiotics (if infection develops)

Advanced Care:

• Oxygen therapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Surgery or lung transplant (severe cases)

Prevention

• The best prevention is avoiding tobacco use and minimizing exposure to lung irritants

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

What Are Eosinophils?

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play an important role in the immune system. They help fight infections and are involved in allergic responses.

Normally, only a small number of eosinophils circulate in the blood. However, the body may produce higher levels in response to:

• Allergic disorders
• Skin conditions
• Parasitic or fungal infections
• Autoimmune diseases
• Certain cancers
• Bone marrow disorders

What Are Eosinophilic Disorders?

In some conditions, eosinophils accumulate in tissues or organs, leading to inflammation and damage. This buildup can occur in areas such as:

• Esophagus
• Lungs
• Heart
• Blood
• Intestines

Symptoms and severity depend on the affected organ.

Treatment

Treatment varies depending on:

• The underlying cause
• The organ involved
• Severity of inflammation

Corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation. Other immune-modulating therapies may be recommended in certain cases.

Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

What Are Esophagus Disorders?

Esophagus disorders affect how the esophagus—the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach—functions.

When something goes wrong, you may notice:

• Pain
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Food feeling stuck

Causes

Causes vary by condition and may include:

• Genetic factors
• Food or environmental allergies
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications
• Radiation therapy to the chest or neck
• Smoking
• Unknown causes

Common Esophagus Disorders

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Acid flows back into the esophagus
• Heartburn – Burning chest or throat sensation from acid reflux
• Barrett’s esophagus – Changes in esophageal lining from chronic GERD
• Achalasia – Lower esophageal muscle fails to relax properly
• Esophageal spasms – Painful muscle contractions
• Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) – Eosinophil buildup causing inflammation
• Esophageal cancer – Cancer originating in esophageal tissue

Symptoms

• Chest, back, or abdominal pain
• Persistent cough or sore throat
• Trouble swallowing
• Hoarseness or wheezing
• Heartburn
• Regurgitation
• Unexplained weight loss

Seek emergency care if chest pain occurs with shortness of breath, jaw pain, or arm pain.

Diagnosis

Tests may include:

• Upper GI endoscopy
• Biopsy
• Barium swallow
• Esophageal manometry
• Esophageal pH monitoring

Treatment

Treatment depends on the condition and may involve:

• Lifestyle and dietary changes
• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications
• Surgery (if needed)

Untreated conditions may increase the risk of complications, including esophageal cancer.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol
• Eat smaller meals
• Avoid late-night eating
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Elevate the head of the bed

Source: NIH – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

What Is the Flu?

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

Each year:

• Millions become ill
• Some develop serious complications
• High-risk groups include adults over 65, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions

How It Spreads

The flu spreads through:

• Respiratory droplets (coughing, sneezing, talking)
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face

Symptoms

Symptoms appear suddenly and may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

Complications

Possible complications include:

• Bronchitis
• Sinus and ear infections
• Pneumonia
• Myocarditis (heart inflammation)
• Encephalitis (brain inflammation)

The flu can worsen chronic conditions like asthma and heart disease.

Treatment

Most people recover at home with rest and fluids.

High-risk individuals may need antiviral medications, which work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms.

Prevention

• Annual flu vaccination
• Frequent handwashing
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Staying home when sick

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Haemophilus refers to a group of bacteria that can cause infections affecting:

Respiratory System

• Bones and joints
• Nervous system

Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b)

Hib is a serious infection that primarily affects children under age 5.

It can lead to:

• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Bloodstream infections

Treatment and Prevention

• Treated with antibiotics
• Prevented with the Hib vaccine
• Routine childhood vaccination significantly reduces Hib disease

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Causes of Homelessness

Homelessness can result from complex, overlapping factors:

• Poverty
• Unemployment
• Lack of affordable housing
• Mental health or substance use disorders
• Trauma or violence
• Domestic violence
• Justice-system involvement
• Serious illness
• Disability
• Loss of a partner

The Link Between Homelessness and Health

Health and homelessness are closely connected:

• Poor health can lead to housing instability
• Homelessness can worsen existing medical conditions

Contributing factors include:

• Limited access to healthcare
• Food insecurity
• Exposure to violence
• Environmental extremes
• Unsanitary conditions
• Chronic stress

Common Health Concerns

• HIV
• Tuberculosis and other lung diseases
• Malnutrition
• Mental health disorders
• Substance use disorders
• Skin infections and wounds

Trauma is common among individuals experiencing homelessness, including children, who may develop emotional or behavioral challenges.

For assistance, contact a local homelessness services agency for access to shelters, healthcare, and meal programs.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Infection Control in Healthcare Settings

Every year, infections acquired in hospitals contribute to serious illness and death. Preventing the spread of infectious diseases in healthcare settings is known as infection control, and it protects both patients and healthcare workers.

Why It Matters

Hospitals care for people who are often already sick or have weakened immune systems. This makes infection prevention especially critical.

The Most Important Step: Hand Hygiene

Proper handwashing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. If you are a patient, it is absolutely appropriate to remind:

• Health care providers
• Visitors
• Family members

to wash or sanitize their hands before touching you.

Other Infection Control Measures

Health care workers also reduce infection risks by:

• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Staying up to date with vaccinations
• Wearing gloves, masks, and protective clothing when appropriate
• Making tissues and hand sanitizer easily available
• Following strict guidelines when handling blood or contaminated materials

Infection control practices save lives every day.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Are Interstitial Lung Diseases?

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) refers to a large group of disorders that cause inflammation or scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs.

The scarring—called pulmonary fibrosis—makes it harder for oxygen to pass from the lungs into the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to:

• Shortness of breath
• Chronic dry cough
• Fatigue
• Reduced ability to exercise

Causes

Some ILDs are caused by inhaling harmful particles over time, including:

• Black lung disease – From coal dust (coal miners)
• Farmer’s lung – From moldy farm dust
• Asbestosis – From asbestos fibers
• Siderosis – From inhaling iron particles
• Silicosis – From silica dust

Other causes include:

• Autoimmune diseases
• Long-term exposure to workplace molds, gases, or fumes
• Certain medications
• Unknown causes (idiopathic forms)

Treatment

Treatment depends on:

• The cause
• The extent of lung damage
• Disease progression

Options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory or antifibrotic medications
• Oxygen therapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Lung transplant in severe cases

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH)

What Do the Kidneys Do?

You have two kidneys, each about the size of a fist, located near the middle of your back just below the rib cage.

Inside each kidney are about one million tiny filtering units called nephrons. They:

• Filter waste from the blood
• Remove extra water
• Produce urine

Urine travels through tubes called ureters to the bladder for storage.

What Causes Kidney Disease?

Most kidney diseases damage the nephrons, preventing them from properly filtering waste. Causes include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Genetic disorders
• Injuries
• Certain medications

Risk increases if you:

• Have diabetes
• Have high blood pressure
• Have a family history of kidney disease

Types of Kidney Problems

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Kidney cancer
• Kidney cysts
• Kidney stones
• Infections

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors use blood and urine tests to check kidney function.

If kidney failure occurs, treatment may require:

• Dialysis
• Kidney transplantation

Source: NIH – National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Your lungs supply oxygen to your bloodstream—about 25,000 breaths per day.

When lung disease develops, breathing becomes more difficult, and oxygen delivery to the body is reduced.

Collectively, lung diseases are the third leading cause of death in the United States.

Types of Lung Diseases

• Asthma
• COPD
• Pneumonia
• Influenza
• Tuberculosis
• Lung cancer
• Other respiratory disorders

Some lung diseases can progress to respiratory failure, a life-threatening condition.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office on Women’s Health

What Is Oxygen?

Oxygen is essential for life. Your lungs absorb oxygen from the air and deliver it to your bloodstream, where it fuels your organs and tissues.

When blood oxygen levels are too low, symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Organ damage (if untreated)

What Is Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen therapy (also called supplemental oxygen) provides extra oxygen to help maintain healthy blood oxygen levels.

It requires a prescription and may be used:

• In hospitals
• In outpatient settings
• At home

Some people need it temporarily; others require long-term therapy.

How Oxygen Is Delivered

Devices include:

• Oxygen tanks (liquid or compressed gas)
• Oxygen concentrators (extract oxygen from room air)

Delivery methods:

• Nasal cannula
• Face mask
• Oxygen tent

Portable options allow mobility during treatment.

Who May Need Oxygen Therapy?

Conditions that may require supplemental oxygen include:

• COPD
• Pneumonia
• COVID-19
• Severe asthma
• Advanced heart failure
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sleep apnea

Risks and Safety

Oxygen therapy is generally safe, but side effects may include:

• Dry or bloody nose
• Fatigue
• Morning headaches

Oxygen increases fire risk. Never smoke or use open flames while using oxygen.

Secure oxygen tanks upright to prevent injury.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. This allows the lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than under normal conditions.

HBOT is used for:

• Severe wounds
• Burns
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Decompression sickness
• Certain infections

The FDA has not approved HBOT for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism, cancer, or Lyme disease. Always consult a provider before pursuing treatment.

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH)

What Is Plague?

Plague is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. The bacteria are primarily found in:

• Wild rodents (especially rats)
• Fleas that feed on infected animals

Humans usually become infected through flea bites or contact with infected animals.

Historically, plague caused devastating pandemics, including the Black Death. Today, it is rare due to improved sanitation and effective antibiotics.

Types of Plague

1. Bubonic Plague

   The most common form.

   It affects the lymphatic system and causes:

   • Fever
   • Chills
   • Weakness
   • Body aches
   • Painful, swollen lymph nodes (called buboes)

2. Septicemic Plague

   Occurs when the bacteria multiply in the bloodstream.

   Symptoms include:

   • Fever and chills
   • Shock
   • Bleeding under the skin or into organs
   • Tissue death (which may cause blackened fingers or toes)

   This form can develop from untreated bubonic plague or occur on its own.

3. Pneumonic Plague

   The most serious form.

   The bacteria infect the lungs, causing pneumonia. It can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets.

   Symptoms include:

   • Fever
   • Cough
   • Chest pain
   • Difficulty breathing
   • Rapid illness progression

   Because it spreads through the air, pneumonic plague is considered a potential bioterrorism threat.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosed through laboratory testing of blood, sputum, or lymph node samples
• Treated with strong antibiotics
• Early treatment significantly improves survival
• There is currently no widely available vaccine for plague

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Are Pneumococcal Infections?

Pneumococcal infections are caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria (also called pneumococci).

These bacteria spread through respiratory droplets and can be carried in the nose or throat without causing illness.

Types of Pneumococcal Infections

Infections range from mild to life-threatening and include:

• Ear infections
• Sinus infections
• Pneumonia
• Sepsis (bloodstream infection)
• Meningitis

Severe infections can result in long-term complications or death, especially in vulnerable groups.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis depends on the site of infection and may involve:

• Physical examination
• Blood tests
• Imaging (such as chest X-ray)
• Lab cultures

Treatment involves antibiotics.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective prevention method.

There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines:

• Routine vaccine for infants and young children
• Vaccine for high-risk groups, including:
  • Adults age 65 and older
  • People with chronic illnesses
  • Smokers
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems
  • Residents of long-term care facilities

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is Poisoning?

A poison is any substance that can harm the body if swallowed, inhaled, injected, or absorbed through the skin. Any substance can be poisonous if taken in excessive amounts.

Common Poisons Include:

• Prescription or over-the-counter medications taken in high doses
• Illegal drugs
• Carbon monoxide from gas appliances
• Household cleaning products
• Pesticides
• Toxic plants
• Heavy metals (such as lead or mercury)

Effects of Poisoning

Effects range from:

• Mild illness
• Organ damage
• Brain injury
• Coma
• Death

Prevention Tips

• Store medications and chemicals out of children’s reach
• Follow product labels carefully
• Use appliances properly and maintain carbon monoxide detectors

If poisoning is suspected in the U.S., call Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 immediately. Treatment depends on the type and amount of poison.

Source: American Association of Poison Control Centers

What Is PSP?

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare, progressive brain disorder that affects:

• Movement
• Balance
• Eye control
• Thinking

It worsens over time.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown. In rare cases, a gene mutation may play a role.

PSP is associated with abnormal buildup of a protein called tau in brain cells. Similar tau accumulation occurs in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Who Is at Risk?

• Most commonly affects people over age 60
• More common in men

Symptoms

Symptoms vary but may include:

• Frequent falls (often an early symptom)
• Loss of balance
• Difficulty moving the eyes (especially looking up or down)
• Slurred speech
• Trouble swallowing
• Depression or apathy
• Mild dementia

Diagnosis

There is no specific diagnostic test. Doctors rely on:

• Medical history
• Neurological exam
• Brain imaging (MRI)

PSP is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment

There is no cure. Treatment focuses on symptom management:

• Medications (limited effectiveness)
• Physical and speech therapy
• Walking aids
• Special glasses
• Feeding tube (in severe swallowing problems)

Although PSP is not directly fatal, complications such as pneumonia or falls can be life-threatening.

Source: NIH – National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

What Is Respiratory Failure?

Respiratory failure occurs when the lungs cannot:

• Deliver enough oxygen to the blood
• Remove enough carbon dioxide
• Or both

This condition can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term).

Causes

Respiratory failure may result from:

Lung Diseases

• COPD
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary embolism
• COVID-19
• Cystic fibrosis

Neuromuscular Disorders

• ALS
• Muscular dystrophy
• Spinal cord injuries
• Stroke

Other Causes

• Chest injuries
• Drug or alcohol overdose
• Smoke inhalation
• Severe scoliosis

Symptoms

Low oxygen levels may cause:

• Shortness of breath
• Bluish skin or lips
• Confusion

High carbon dioxide levels may cause:

• Rapid breathing
• Sleepiness
• Headache
• Irregular heartbeat

Severe cases can lead to unconsciousness.

Diagnosis

Tests may include:

• Pulse oximetry
• Arterial blood gas (ABG) test
• Chest X-ray
• EKG

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Options include:

• Oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation
• Tracheostomy
• Noninvasive ventilation (CPAP/BiPAP)
• Medications
• Treating the underlying condition

Acute respiratory failure is a medical emergency and may require intensive care. Chronic cases may be managed at home with oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. Emotional support and counseling can also help individuals cope with long-term respiratory illness.

Source: NIH – National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

What Is RSV?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can lead to serious lung infections, particularly in:

• Infants and young children
• Adults ages 65 and older
• People with chronic medical conditions
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Nearly all children are infected with RSV by age 2. In the United States, the RSV season typically occurs from fall through spring.

How RSV Spreads

RSV spreads easily through:

• Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
• Direct contact (such as kissing a child’s face)
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes

Most people are contagious for 3–8 days. However, infants and people with weakened immune systems may spread the virus for up to 4 weeks.

Symptoms of RSV

Symptoms usually begin 4–6 days after exposure and may include:

• Runny nose
• Decreased appetite
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing

Symptoms often appear gradually. In very young infants, signs may include:

• Irritability
• Decreased activity
• Trouble breathing

Severe RSV Infections

RSV can cause more serious illnesses, including:

• Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways)
• Pneumonia

Severe cases may require hospitalization.

Diagnosis

Health care providers may use:

• Medical history
• Physical examination
• Nasal swab laboratory testing (in severe cases)
• Chest X-ray or blood tests (if complications are suspected)

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for RSV in most cases.

Supportive care includes:

• Rest
• Fluids to prevent dehydration
• Over-the-counter fever and pain relievers (no aspirin for children)

Children under 4 should not be given cough medicines. Severe cases may require:

• Oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation

Prevention

Vaccines

• RSV vaccines are available for adults age 60 and older
• A maternal RSV vaccine (given at 32–36 weeks of pregnancy) protects newborns during their first 6 months

Preventive Medications for Infants

Two injectable medicines help prevent severe RSV in:

• Infants under 8 months during their first RSV season
• High-risk children under 24 months

These do not treat RSV — they reduce severity risk.

Everyday Prevention Tips

• Wash hands for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching face with unwashed hands
• Clean frequently touched surfaces
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Stay home when sick

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is Shingles?

Shingles is a painful rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox.

After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains inactive in the body and can reactivate later in life as shingles.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles.

Risk increases with:

• Age (especially over 50)
• Weakened immune system
• Stress or illness

Shingles can occur more than once, though it is uncommon.

Is Shingles Contagious?

You cannot catch shingles from someone else. However, someone who has never had chickenpox or the vaccine can get chickenpox from direct contact with the shingles rash fluid.

The virus is not contagious once the rash has crusted over.

Symptoms

Early symptoms:

• Burning or shooting pain
• Tingling or itching (usually on one side of the body)

A few days later, a blistering rash appears:

• Typically appears as a single stripe on one side of the body or face

Other possible symptoms:

• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Upset stomach

Complications

• Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN): Long-lasting nerve pain
• Vision loss (if the eye is involved)
• Hearing or balance problems
• Facial weakness
• Rarely, pneumonia or brain inflammation

Treatment

There is no cure, but antiviral medications can:

• Shorten the duration
• Reduce severity
• Lower risk of PHN

They work best if started within 72 hours of rash onset.

Pain relief options include:

• Prescription pain medications
• Cool compresses
• Calamine lotion
• Oatmeal baths

Prevention

The Shingrix vaccine is recommended for:

• Adults age 50 and older
• Adults age 19+ with weakened immune systems

It is given in two doses.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Is an X-Ray?

An X-ray is a painless imaging test that uses a small amount of radiation to create pictures of the inside of the body.

Different tissues absorb radiation differently:

• Bones appear white
• Soft tissues appear gray
• Air (such as in the lungs) appears black

Why X-Rays Are Used

X-rays help detect:

• Broken bones
• Pneumonia
• Tumors
• Certain infections

They are also used in:

• Mammograms
• CT scans

Radiation Safety

The radiation exposure from an X-ray is low. For example, a chest X-ray equals about 10 days of natural background radiation.

Always tell your provider if you are pregnant.

What to Expect

• You may stand, sit, or lie down
• You must remain still briefly
• You can resume normal activities afterward

A radiologist interprets the images.

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

It spreads when an infected person breathes out respiratory droplets and small particles containing the virus.

Key Topics Related to COVID-19

• Symptoms and risk factors
• COVID-19 testing
• COVID-19 vaccines
• Post-COVID conditions (Long COVID)

Prevention Strategies

• Vaccination
• Staying home when sick
• Good hand hygiene
• Improving indoor ventilation

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)