Page 210 - 84 human physiolofy part-1

Chapter 11

will be necessary.

Otitis Media
Otitis media in an infection of the middle ear. Even though the middle ear is not part of the
respiratory tract, it is discussed here because it is often a complication seen in children who has a
nasal infection. The infection can be spread by way of the 'auditory (Eustachian) tube that leads
form the nasopharynx to the middle ear. The main symptom is usually pain. Sometimes though,
vertigo, hearing loss, and dizziness may be present. Antibiotics can be prescribed and tubes are
placed in the eardrum to prevent the buildup of pressure in the middle ear and the possibility of
hearing loss.

Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become swollen and inflamed. The tonsils located in the
posterior wall of the nasopharynx are often referred to as adenoids. If you suffer from tonsillitis
frequently and breathing becomes difficult, they can be removed surgically in a procedure called
a tonsillectomy.

Laryngitis
An infection of the larynx is called laryngitis. It is accompanied by hoarseness and being unable
to speak in an audible voice. Usually, laryngitis disappears with treatment of the URI. Persistent
hoarseness without a URI is a warning sign of cancer, and should be checked into by your
physician.

Lower Respiratory Tract Disorders

Lower respiratory tract disorders include infections, restrictive pulmonary disorders, obstructive
pulmonary disorders, and lung cancer.

Lower Respiratory Infections

Acute bronchitis
An infection that is located in the primary and secondary bronchi is called bronchitis. Most of the
time, it is preceded by a viral URI that led to a secondary bacterial infection. Usually, a
nonproductive cough turns into a deep cough that will expectorate mucus and sometimes pus.
Pneumonia
A bacterial or viral infection in the lungs where the bronchi and the alveoli fill with a thick fluid.
Usually it is preceded by influenza. Symptoms of pneumonia include high fever & chills, with
headache and chest pain. Pneumonia can be located in several lobules of the lung and obviously,
the more lobules involved, the more serious the infection. It can be caused by a bacteria that is
usually held in check, but due to stress or reduced immunity has gained the upper hand.

Restrictive Pulmonary Disorders

Pulmonary Fibrosis
Vital capacity is reduced in these types of disorders because the lungs have lost their elasticity.
Inhaling particles such as sand, asbestos, coal dust, or fiberglass can lead to pulmonary fibrosis,

210 | Human Physiology