Respiratory Conditions Specialist

What is the respiratory system?

Your respiratory system consists of your nose, mouth, trachea, sinuses, bronchial tubes, and lungs. When even one part of the system is affected, your breathing may be compromised.

If you notice a change in your breathing that affects daily activity or exercise, meet with the team at Medical Associates of North Texas. If your breathing problems are severe and sudden, seek emergency care right away.

What are some common respiratory conditions?

Common respiratory conditions include:

• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Emphysema
• Chronic bronchitis
• Pleural effusion
• Chronic respiratory failure
• Sleep apnea
• Sinusitis
• Lung cancer
• Pneumonia

Some of these conditions, such as pneumonia, are temporary and can be treated and resolved. Others are chronic conditions that require long-term management. At Medical Associates of North Texas, the team helps with both acute and chronic respiratory conditions.

How are respiratory conditions treated?

Short-term respiratory conditions, such as pneumonia or sinusitis, may be treated with antibiotics and symptom-relieving medications.

Treatments for long-term conditions, such as asthma or chronic respiratory failure, aim at optimizing your exercise tolerance as well as education on how to prevent disease progression.

Examples of specific treatments include:

Asthma

A major way to reduce asthma severity is avoiding triggers that aggravate attacks. The doctors can also prescribe medications that can open your airway to facilitate breathing.

Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is characterized by periods of interrupted breathing during sleep. Treatments may include a recommendation to use a nighttime appliance, such as a specialized nightguard, or a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. Weight loss support, if you’re overweight, and treatment for associated conditions are also provided.

COPD

COPD can be managed with oral or inhaled medications, oxygen therapy, and at-home ventilation devices. Learning to identify and manage exacerbations, such as those created by a respiratory infection, air pollution, or other inflammatory triggers, is critical. 

If you experience worsening symptoms, call Medical Associates of North Texas for an immediate appointment.

Regardless of your respiratory condition, the team at Medical Associates of North Texas can help. Call the office today or book an appointment online.