Individuals with asthma or other chronic lung conditions may be prescribed a dry powder inhaler (DPI) to help manage breathing difficulties. These conditions restrict airflow in the lungs, making it harder to breathe normally. A dry powder inhaler delivers medication directly into the lungs, allowing it to work more quickly and effectively than medication taken […]
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Rhinovirus infections are most commonly associated with the common cold. These viruses are widespread and are responsible not only for colds, but also for ear infections, sore throat, sinus infections, and in rare cases, more serious conditions such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in young children. Rhinoviruses spread easily through person-to-person contact. When a child
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Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is caused by a group of viruses known as coronaviruses. While many coronaviruses cause mild to moderate upper respiratory infections, SARS is a serious and highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure. The incubation period for SARS is typically 2 to 7 days, meaning symptoms
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A nut allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to proteins found in peanuts or tree nuts. During an initial exposure, the immune system becomes sensitized, but symptoms may not appear right away. It is often during subsequent exposure that a noticeable allergic reaction occurs. Many children and adults with nut allergies can react to
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Persistent rhinitis is a long-lasting condition characterized by a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, and nasal irritation. In most cases, it is caused by allergic rhinitis, although non-allergic rhinitis can also occur and may be more difficult to manage. Persistent Rhinitis Treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. In many cases, steroid nasal sprays are
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Silicosis is a serious occupational lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of silica, a mineral found in rock, sand, concrete, and mineral ores such as quartz. Prolonged exposure to silica dust leads to progressive scarring of the lungs, which interferes with normal breathing and oxygen exchange. In Canada, silicosis most commonly affects individuals
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Rose hips are derived from various species of the rose bush and are commonly used in vitamin C supplements, herbal teas, syrups, and jams. In Canada, rose hip–containing products are widely available in health food stores and pharmacies. Although rose hips are generally safe for most people, plant allergies are not uncommon, and allergic or
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Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a common reason Canadians seek medical advice. It is described as the sensation of not getting enough air or feeling unable to breathe comfortably. In many cases, it is harmless—such as after strenuous physical activity, exposure to cold air, or a stressful situation. However, shortness of breath
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Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. These air sacs can fill with fluid or pus, making breathing difficult and reducing oxygen levels in the body. Pneumonia is most commonly caused by bacteria, but it can also result from viruses or, less commonly, fungi.
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Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung condition in which the lungs are unable to supply enough oxygen to meet the body’s needs. ARDS can affect individuals of any age and most often develops as a serious complication of another illness or injury. In many cases, individuals are already hospitalized when symptoms appear,
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