Dry Powder Inhaler: First Aid Awareness and Proper Use 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 […]
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Rhinovirus Infections (The Common Cold) in Children 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
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Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) 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
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Nut Allergy: Symptoms, Risks, and First Aid Response 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
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Persistent Rhinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options 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. Treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. In many
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Silicosis: Lung Damage Caused by Silica Dust Exposure 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
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Rose Hip Allergy: Symptoms, Risks, and Safety Considerations 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
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Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Causes, Warning Signs, and First Aid Awareness in Canada 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
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Pneumonia: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Medical Care 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
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Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): Signs, Causes, and Emergency Care 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
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