Respiratory Issues

What are respiratory issues?

Respiratory issues are diseases and health complications that affect your lungs and airways. The main symptom they share is breathing difficulties, but they can come with other symptoms too. 

At Akachi Primary and Urgent Care, the team performs a detailed assessment and physical exam for respiratory issues. They might use a chest X-ray or lung function tests to gather information about your lungs’ structure and functioning. They use these tests, as well as your physical exam and medical history, to make a diagnosis. 

Common respiratory issues range in their severity, and many are manageable. A few of the most common are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), COVID-19, and pneumonia. Some of the most serious cases of respiratory issues can eventually lead to respiratory failure if you don’t treat them. 

What are some signs of respiratory issues?

Respiratory issues share a lot of the same symptoms but don’t always have similar causes. Some respiratory issues are present from birth while others develop over time, often due to smoking, secondhand smoke, or chemical inhalation. 

Depending on the specific condition affecting your lungs and airways, your symptoms might include:

• Wheezing 
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• The sensation of not getting enough air
• Difficulty exercising
• Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort

When you come in for a visit, you should be as thorough as possible while describing your symptoms. If you can identify times when they appear or get worse, like after exercise, be sure to let the team know. Details like these can help them make a more accurate diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan. 

How are respiratory issues treated?

Treating respiratory issues requires individualized care according to your specific diagnosis, health risks, age, and preferences. The team at Akachi Primary and Urgent Care tailors your treatment plan to your specifications and encourages you to come in regularly for follow-ups and testing. 

A treatment plan for respiratory issues can include:

• Inhaled medications
• Oral medications
• Smoking cessation
• Activity modification
• Lung training
• Oxygen therapy

In rare cases, surgery may be a necessary next step to treat respiratory issues. However, mild or moderate conditions of the lungs like asthma usually don’t require such treatments and are manageable with a more conservative approach. 

If you’re interested in booking a visit for symptoms of respiratory issues, schedule online or call Akachi Primary and Urgent Care for an appointment now.