Tag: lungs
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Cardiorespiratory Arrest vs Cardiac Arrest: A Detailed Comparison
In emergency and paramedic service two conditions often encountered are cardiorespiratory arrest and cardiac arrest. While they may sound similar and are sometimes used interchangeably, they represent different clinical scenarios with specific implications for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. What is Cardiorespiratory Arrest? Cardiorespiratory arrest, also known as cardiopulmonary arrest, is a condition where both cardiac…
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What is extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)?
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving medical technique that provides temporary respiratory and/or circulatory support to patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure. This advanced therapy acts as a bridge, allowing the lungs or heart to rest and heal while providing oxygenation and circulation externally. ECMO involves the use of a sophisticated medical device…
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Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. It is characterised by episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, which can range from mild to severe. The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be…
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that make it difficult to breathe. The two main conditions that make up COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic Bronchitis “Blue Bloaters” Characterised by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which are the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. The…
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Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The infection causes inflammation in the air sacs of the lungs (alveoli), which can fill with fluid or pus, making it difficult to breathe and leading to coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Symptoms…