Occupational Lung Diseases Occupational Lung Diseases Home Overview Occupational lung diseases are a group of lung conditions that have been caused or made worse by long-term exposure to certain irritants in the workplace. Causes and Risk Factors Dust particles, chemicals, fungal spores, and certain animal droppings are examples of exposures that may increase your risk of developing occupational lung disease. Types of occupational lung diseases Asbestosis results from inhaling asbestos fibres.Symptoms: Shortness of breath, persistent dry cough, chest tightness, and in advanced cases, finger clubbing.Diagnosis: It is diagnosed based on exposure history, chest X-rays, high-resolution CT scans, and pulmonary function tests (PFTs).Treatment: Supportive care, including oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and avoiding further exposure.Silicosis is caused by inhaling silica dust.Symptoms: Shortness of breath, cough, and sometimes, chest pain.Diagnosis: History taking, chest X-rays, CT scans, and PFTs.Treatment: Symptom management, using corticosteroids for inflammation, and preventing further exposure.Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis (Black Lung Disease) results from coal dust inhalation.Symptoms: Chronic cough, shortness of breath and black sputum.Diagnosis: History taking, chest X-rays, CT scans, and PFTs.Treatment: Supportive care, managing complications like chronic bronchitis and avoiding further exposure.Berylliosis results from beryllium dust or fumes.Symptoms: Shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, and chest pain.Diagnosis: Blood tests, chest X-rays, CT scans, PFTs, and sometimes, bronchoscopy.Treatment: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, immunosuppressive drugs in severe cases, and avoiding further exposure.Byssinosis (Brown Lung Disease) is caused by inhalation of cotton dust.Symptoms: Chest tightness, cough and wheezing, especially at the beginning of the workweek. Diagnosis: Exposure history and PFTs.Treatment: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, reducing dust exposure and using protective equipment.Chemical Pneumonitis results from inhaling chemicals, such as chlorine or ammonia.Symptoms: Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and sometimes, fever.Diagnosis: Exposure history, chest X-rays, CT scans, and blood gas analysis.Treatment: Supportive care with oxygen therapy, corticosteroids, and removing exposure to the chemical. Prevention Providing education on preventive measures and coordinating care with other healthcare providers plays a vital role not only in treatment but also in diagnosis and long-term support as required. Tailored programmes are made considering all the above factors as per the patients’ clinical condition. Read more about Occupational Lung Diseases Filter Alphabet O
Lung Cancer Lung Cancer Home Overview Lung cancer occurs when normal cells in the lungs turn abnormal and grow out of control. There are different types of lung cancers. Some types grow much faster than others and spread faster in the body. It is important to note that lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Causes and Risk Factors People who smoke are at the greatest risk of developing lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer increases with the time and number of cigarettes smoked. Quitting smoking, even after smoking for many years, significantly lowers the chances of developing lung cancer. Lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked, and can be caused due to genetic predisposition, exposure to biomass fuel, air pollution or heavy metals. Symptoms Common symptoms of lung cancer include:New onset or worsening coughBreathlessness, or wheezingSpitting or coughing up blood (haemoptysis)Chest painHoarseness of voiceLoss of weightLoss of appetiteHeadache and swelling of the face, arms or neckPain in the arm, shoulder or neckDroopy eyelids or blurred visionWeakness of the hand muscles Diagnosis If a doctor suspects lung cancer they can ask for the following tests:Blood testsCT scan of the chest and neckPET CT to look for lesions outside the lungs and to understand the activity level of the lesions in the lungsBiopsy of the suspected lesion either through bronchoscopy, EBUS (ultrasound or CT guided) depending on the location of the lesion Treatment Surgery: Lung cancer can sometimes be treated with surgery to remove the tumour. However, it can be performed only when detected early and is limited to one lobe or segment of the lung.Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the treatment that is given in later stages and also sometimes before the surgery to reduce the size of the lesion to make it more feasible to remove.Targeted therapy: Some medicines work only for cancers that have certain characteristics. Your doctor might test your tumour to verify if your lung cancer would respond to these medicines.Immunotherapy: This is the term doctors use for medicines that work with the body's infection-fighting system (the "immune system") to stop cancer growth. These are newer therapies that target the particular gene or mutation that stops the growth of cancerous cells. Read more about Lung Cancer Filter Alphabet L
Type 1 Diabetes Type 1 Diabetes Home Overview Type 1 diabetes refers to an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system of the body mistakenly targets and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, causing little or no insulin production. Symptoms Frequent urinationWeight lossExcessive thirstFatigue Diagnosis Blood tests to measure blood sugar levels and check for antibodies. Treatment & Prevention Lifelong insulin therapy through injections or via an insulin pump, along with regular blood sugar monitoring. Managing type 1 diabetes involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and education on managing blood sugar levels.Early diagnosis and appropriate disease management are critical to prevent complications and lead to a good quality of life.Please talk to a paediatric endocrinologist if you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms in your child. Read more about Type 1 Diabetes Filter Alphabet T
Interstitial Lung Disease Interstitial Lung Disease Home Overview Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), also known as Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Diseases (DPLDs) or Pulmonary Fibrosis, are a diverse group of disorders characterised by inflammation and scarring of the interstitium, which is the tissue surrounding the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs. This leads to thickening of the interstitium and affects the ability of the lung to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream. ILDs can be acute or chronic and may have various causes and clinical presentations. Most ILDs cause irreversible damage to the lung, and the most serious ILDs are progressive, where the patient’s condition continues to worsen with time. Causes and Risk Factors ILDs can be triggered by a multitude of factors:Autoimmune Diseases: Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) and systemic lupus erythematosus can cause ILDs.Exposure to Environmental Factors: Long-term exposure to factors, such as asbestos fibres, silica dust, environmental toxins, grain dust, bird and animal droppings and indoor hot tubs has been reported to cause ILD.Medication: Many drugs, such as chemotherapy drugs (Otrexup, Trexall), some heart medications used to treat irregular heartbeats (Nexterone, Pacerone, Inderal, Innopran), some antibiotics (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Myambutol), and certain anti-inflammatory drugs (Rituxan, Azulfidine), can cause lung damage.Infections: Some viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can lead to ILDs.However, in many cases, the cause remains unknown (idiopathic interstitial pneumonias). Symptoms The clinical presentation of ILDs can vary widely depending on the specific type and stage of the disease. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, dry cough, weight loss and fatigue. Diagnosis Diagnosing ILDs typically involves a combination of:Clinical evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination.Imaging-based Techniques, such as HRCT Chest, which can reveal characteristic patterns of lung involvement.PFTs to assess lung function, including measures of lung volumes and diffusion capacity.Biopsy is needed sometimes to confirm the specific type of ILD and guide treatment. Treatment Treatment of ILDs depends on the underlying cause and severity of the disease. It may include:Medications: Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants or antifibrotic agents.Oxygen Therapy: To improve oxygenation in advanced cases.Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Includes exercise programmes and education to manage symptoms.Lung Transplant: This is the treatment of choice in severe cases, when other treatments are ineffective.Overall, ILDs are a complex group of disorders that require careful evaluation and management by pulmonologists and other specialists to optimise outcomes and improve quality of life of the affected individuals. Read more about Interstitial Lung Disease Filter Alphabet I
Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Home Overview Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis, is an inflammatory lung disease that is caused by repeated inhalation of organic dusts or other antigens to which an individual is sensitised. These antigens can include mould spores, bacteria, animal proteins, or chemicals found in workplaces or home environments. Causes and Risk Factors HP develops when the immune system exhibits an exaggerated response to these inhaled antigens. Initially, exposure leads to an immune reaction in the small airways and air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs, causing inflammation. With repeated exposure over time, chronic inflammation can lead to scarring of the lung tissue. Symptoms Symptoms of HP can vary depending on the frequency and intensity of antigen exposure. Common symptoms include dry cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and weight loss and flu-like symptoms, particularly after exposure to the antigen. Diagnosis Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging-based techniques (e.g., chest X-ray or high-resolution CT scan), pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and sometimes bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and lung biopsy to confirm the presence of inflammation and rule out other lung diseases. Treatment Treatment includes avoiding further exposure to the offending antigen, which is crucial in managing symptoms and preventing disease progression. In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Severe cases may require immunosuppressive therapy, and in rare instances, lung transplantation. Read more about Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Filter Alphabet H
Pre-diabetes Pre-diabetes Home Overview Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet enough to get a diagnosis of diabetes. It significantly raises the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Symptoms Often do not show up easily Diagnosis This condition can be detected through blood tests like fasting glucose or HbA1c testing. Treatment & Prevention Effective management of Prediabetes entails lifestyle changes involving maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, adequate and regular physical activity, and reducing body weight to decrease the risk of progression to diabetes.Regular monitoring and early intervention can prevent or prolong the onset of type 2 diabetes and its related complications, improving long-term health outcomes.If you have any worries about diabetes or observe signs or symptoms of type 2 diabetes, it is advisable to get an endocrine consultation. Inquire about blood sugar screening if you think you have any diabetes-related risk factors to stay proactive about your health and well-being. Read more about Pre-diabetes Filter Alphabet P
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Home Overview Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis, is a rare disorder characterised by inflammation of the blood vessels, which can restrict blood flow to various organs. It primarily affects the respiratory tract (upper as well as lower) and kidneys; however, it can affect other organs as well. Causes and Risk Factors The exact cause of GPA is unknown, but it is considered as an autoimmune disorder, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own blood vessels. Genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Symptoms Respiratory: Persistent nasal congestion, sinusitis, nosebleeds, cough, and shortness of breath.Renal: Blood in the urine, decreased kidney function, and in severe cases, kidney failure.General: Fatigue, fever, weight loss, and joint pain. Diagnosis Diagnosing GPA involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests (including blood tests for specific antibodies like ANCA), imaging-based techniques (e.g., chest X-rays or CT scans), and sometimes biopsy of the affected tissues. Treatment GPA is typically treated with immunosuppressive medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Commonly used drugs include corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants like cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, or rituximab. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent organ damage.Prognosis: With prompt and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for GPA has improved significantly. However, the condition can be life-threatening if not treated early, and long-term follow-up is necessary as relapses can occur. Read more about Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis Filter Alphabet G
Fungal Diseases of the Lung Fungal Diseases of the Lung Home Overview Fungal diseases of the lung are caused by various types of fungi and can range from mild to severe. Causes and Risk Factors Histoplasmosis: Caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, typically found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe lung infections.Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever): Caused by Coccidioides species, common in the southwestern United States. Symptoms include cough, fever, and chest pain.Blastomycosis: Caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis, often found in moist soil and decomposing organic matter. It can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, and weight loss.Aspergillosis: Caused by Aspergillus species, found in soil, decaying vegetation and dust. It can cause a range of conditions from allergic reactions to severe infections in individuals with weakened immune systems (immunocompromised).Cryptococcosis: Caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, commonly found in soil and bird droppings. It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and can lead to severe lung and central nervous system infections.Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP): Caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii, it mainly affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as in those with HIV/AIDS.Mucormycosis: Caused by fungi belonging to the order Mucorales. It is a very rare but serious infection that often affects immunocompromised individuals and can cause severe lung damage. Diagnosis Diagnosis typically involves imaging-based techniques like chest X-rays or CT scans, as well as laboratory tests such as fungal cultures, serology and molecular methods. Treatment Treatment often includes antifungal medications and addressing any underlying conditions that predispose the patient to infection. Read more about Fungal Diseases of the Lung Filter Alphabet F
Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes Mellitus Home Overview Diabetes mellitus refers to a long-term condition characterised by elevated levels of blood sugar due to the inability of the body to properly produce or utilise insulin. Insulin plays a critical role in controlling blood sugar by transporting glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy use. There are two main types: type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Symptoms Excessive thirstIncreased frequency of urinationUnexplained weight loss Diagnosis Early detection is crucial, as starting treatment promptly can improve outcomes. Diagnostic methods include blood tests to assess blood sugar levels. Treatment & Prevention Effective diabetes treatment involves lifestyle changes like balanced diet, regular physical activity, and medications to control blood sugar levels. However, in some cases, insulin therapy is necessary.Regular monitoring and management are essential to prevent complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems. Education and support empower individuals to manage their condition and lead a healthier life. Read more about Diabetes Mellitus Filter Alphabet D
Glasgow Coma Scale Glasgow Coma Scale Home Overview The Glasgow Coma Scale is a neurological assessment tool to measure the severity of brain injury based on a patient's response to stimuli, including eye opening, motor response, and verbal response. It assigns a score ranging from 3 to 15, with higher scores indicating better neurological function. Eye opening response Spontaneous: 4 pointsTo verbal stimuli, command, speech: 3 pointsTo pain only: 2 pointsNo response: 1 point Verbal response Oriented: 5 pointsConfused conversation, but able to answer questions: 4 pointsInappropriate words: 3 pointsIncomprehensible speech: 2 pointsNo response: 1 point Motor response Obeys commands: 6 pointsPurposeful movement to painful stimulus: 5 pointsWithdraws in response to pain: 4 pointsFlexion in response to pain (decorticate posturing): 3 pointsExtension response in response to pain (decerebrate posturing): 2 pointsNo response: 1 point Indications Evaluate brain functionCommunicate a patient’s conditionGroup patients into severity categories Read more about Glasgow Coma Scale Filter Alphabet G