Recurrence of Pulmonary TB After Treatment: What Patients Should Know

Completing treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a major step toward recovery. Most people who receive an appropriate treatment regimen and complete it as prescribed are successfully cured. However, TB can occur again in some people after treatment. If you previously completed TB treatment and later develop symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, night…

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Importance of the Flu Vaccine in People with Lung Disease

If you have a lung condition such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, or another chronic respiratory disease, you may already be careful about avoiding infections. One infection that deserves particular attention is influenza, commonly called the flu. For someone with healthy lungs, influenza may cause fever, cough, body aches and tiredness. But in a…

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Living With Advanced COPD: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Advanced COPD can change almost every part of daily life. Activities that were once easy—walking across a room, bathing, preparing a meal, or going outside—may become tiring or difficult. For family members and caregivers, caring for someone with advanced COPD can also be challenging. You may find yourself helping with medicines, oxygen, appointments, household activities,…

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Breathing Problems in Kyphoscoliosis: What Patients Need to Know

Kyphoscoliosis is a condition in which the spine develops both a sideways curvature (scoliosis) and an increased forward curvature (kyphosis). While kyphoscoliosis primarily affects the spine and posture, more severe deformity can also affect the chest and the mechanics of breathing. Not everyone with kyphoscoliosis develops significant breathing problems. However, when the chest becomes restricted,…

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Why You Should Never Stop Your Inhaler Without Medical Advice

Many people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) stop using their inhalers once they start feeling better. Others worry about becoming dependent on inhalers or fear side effects, leading them to reduce or stop their medication without consulting their doctor. Although this may seem reasonable, stopping your inhaler without medical advice can allow…

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