We breathe in and out about 22,000 times a day, usually with little effort or thought. We often do not think about our lungs until something takes our breath away. Environmental factors, such as pollutants, aren’t the only things that can affect the respiratory system. Respiratory conditions can also impact your ability to breathe.
Respiratory conditions affect the airways and other structures of the lungs, hindering your ability to breathe. Some respiratory diseases are acute, like an infection that will get better with treatment, while others are chronic and need to be managed. Various forms of treatment can help open the air passages and improve breathing for those living with respiratory conditions by controlling symptoms and improving daily life.
Respiratory conditions can arise from a number of causes, including inhalation of toxic agents, accidents, and harmful lifestyles, such as smoking. Infections, genetic factors, and anything else that affects lung development, can cause respiratory symptoms.
