Respiratory failure and respiratory distress are both medical emergencies that demand prompt treatment and present special dangers to vulnerable groups such as children, elders, and people with chronic illnesses. Respiratory distress, for example, affects about 1% of newborns and is the leading cause of death in neonates born prematurely.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) occurs when blood oxygen levels drop too low because fluid has accumulated in the lungs. Numerous medical conditions, both acute and chronic, can cause ARDS. Often, a first responder or doctor hears wheezing or crackling sounds coming from the lungs. When the lungs are clear, this usually signals a hematologic, metabolic, or obstructive process. Here’s what you need to know about diagnosing and treating the cause.

For many first responders, airway trauma is an unusual scenario. Airway trauma accounts for less than 1% of traumatic injuries. Those with little experience managing airway trauma may be reluctant to intervene and lack confidence in their skill. Given the high mortality rates associated with severe airway trauma and the risks involved, first responders must master the art and science of tracheal trauma airway management. Regular drills and continuing education classes can help.

The COVID-19 pandemic made acute respiratory distress one of the most common emergencies faced by first responders. Without prompt intervention, the virus led to respiratory failure and life-threatening complications.

September was National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month, an important time to spread knowledge about the heart condition and its impact on the health and quality of life of individuals and families throughout the country.

Respiratory health concerns become more prevalent as people age and develop various physical symptoms, conditions and traumas. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the rate of ambulatory-care visits for respiratory care is highest among people aged 85 and older.

Respiratory muscle weakness is a common disorder often associated with weakened coughing, breathing and other airway functions, and it’s critical that providers and patients know how to identify symptoms of this condition to ensure the healthiest breathing and respiratory functions possible for all individuals.

Swimming is a great form of exercise that can be very beneficial to a person’s overall health. Who doesn’t love a good dip in the pool, right? On the flip side, swimming can also present a number of respiratory issues and cause breathing dysfunction. It’s important to know the respiratory risks of swimming before hopping in the pool.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is easier said than done, and sometimes it can be easy to lose sight of taking care of yourself in the hustle and bustle of life. We tend to take our lungs for granted and ignore the value in having a healthy airway. There are many ways to ensure that you are keeping your airway at its best. The American Lung Association has identified key areas in which people tend to fall short of a healthy airway.

Responding to pediatric special needs patients can be challenging. Depending on the disability, the person may be unable to relate pertinent information about their complaint, level of discomfort, or emotional state. And when the emergency involves the respiratory tract, it only increases the stress of the situation. Let’s discuss some considerations when performing a respiratory assessment on pediatric patients with special needs.