Metabolic acidosis is characterized by an imbalance in the body’s acid-base balance and occurs when there is a buildup of acid in the blood. Causes include: The body attempts to compensate for this imbalance through the respiratory system by hyperventilation to blow off excess CO2 to raise the blood pH and readjust the bicarbonate to … Read more
Hemoglobin is a protein in the blood that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the tissues and organs back to the lungs. The body makes hemoglobin through iron, a natural component of red blood cells (RBC). Normal hemoglobin levels are 14 -18 g/dL for adult males and 12 – 16 g/dL for adult … Read more
If fluid or air accumulates in the pleural space, the negative subatmospheric pressure becomes positive, and the lungs will collapse. Chest tube insertion (thoracostomy) can help drain the pleural space, enable optimal lung expansion, and reestablish negative pressure. Chest Tube Procedure A thoracostomy involves inserting a flexible tube through the chest wall and into the … Read more
RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a common respiratory virus that primarily affects children but can also infect adults, mimicking the common cold. Although the symptoms are mild in most cases, severe lung infections may occur, requiring hospitalization. Since a mild RSV infection is similar to the common cold, supportive treatment at home is usually … Read more
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects the lining of the joints (synovium), resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. Symptoms occur bilaterally and in multiple joints. The hands, wrists, and feet are most commonly affected, though any joint is susceptible to RA. Additionally, the chronic inflammation caused by RA has the … Read more
Emphysema is a lung disease that gradually damages the air sacs (alveoli). Over time, the sacs weaken and rupture, reducing the surface area of the lungs and the amount of oxygen reaching the bloodstream, which results in dyspnea. Gradually, damage to the alveoli causes the lungs to overfill, making breathing increasingly difficult. The alveoli won’t … Read more
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that temporarily affects brain function. It is usually caused by a blow or jolt to the head or the upper body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth and bounce around in the skull. This irregular movement and subsequent injury can … Read more
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that is potentially life-threatening if not recognized and treated appropriately. It is characterized by a very low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and extreme habits to prevent weight gain. Overview Anorexias nervosa is a recognized psychiatric disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental … Read more
Paralytic ileus is a temporary slowing or paralysis of peristalsis through the lower digestive tract. It mimics an intestinal obstruction without an actual mechanical cause. Paralytic ileus is an acute condition that is reversible and may resolve on its own, but if symptoms become severe or the ileus lasts longer than 72 hours, it should … Read more
Labor is a series of contractions that help with dilation and effacement of the cervix to allow the fetus to move through the birth canal and out of the vagina. Labor usually begins around the EDD (expected date of delivery), but no one can predict exactly when it will start. Stages of Labor Labor can … Read more