Jornal de Pneumologia e Doenças Respiratórias

Abstrato

Chronic Respiratory Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Barreiro DC

Chronic respiratory diseases represent a group of long-term conditions that adversely affect the airways and lungs, leading to persistent respiratory symptoms and impaired lung function. This article provides a concise overview of chronic respiratory diseases, including their types, causes, symptoms, and management strategies. The most prevalent conditions discussed are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis. While smoking, environmental pollutants, genetic factors, and infections contribute to the development of these diseases, their exact causes remain multifactorial and complex. The common symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and excessive mucus production. Chronic respiratory diseases significantly impact individuals' quality of life, leading to reduced physical activity, frequent hospitalizations, and increased mortality rates. Management and treatment options involve medication, inhalation therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, lifestyle changes, and vaccinations. By implementing a comprehensive approach that combines these strategies, individuals with chronic respiratory diseases can achieve better symptom control, improved lung function, and an enhanced overall quality of life.