Croup is a common childhood illness that causes swelling of the upper respiratory tract. This can be recognised by a change in tone of voice and a distinctive "croupy" cough that sounds like a seal or barking. Croup is caused by a variety of virus...

Latex allergy facts Latex allergy is dramatically on the rise throughout the world. Latex allergy rises with exposure and is suspected to continue to rise until a latex substitute is found. Latex allergy can be s...

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is characterized by severe coughing fits that can be followed by a "whooping" sound when the person tries to tak...

Pleurisy (pleuritis) is a health condition that occurs when the pleura, the thin layer of tissue that covers the lungs, becomes inflamed. Pleurisy (pleuritis) can be caused by a variety of things, including viruses, bacteria, and even lung cancer....

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause mild, cold-like symptoms in adults and older children, but can be more serious in infants and young children. RSV is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory d...

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is a common respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms. It commonly affects infants by the time they reach the age of two.  Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection symptoms ...

Sick building syndrome is believed by some to be an illness caused by unknown agents in buildings. Sick building syndrome is a controversial subject because many experts do not think it is a true syndrome. Sick building sy...

Spinal headaches are a fairly common complication in those who undergo a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) or spinal anesthesia. Both procedures require a puncture of the membrane that surrounds the spinal cord and, in the lower spine, the lumbar and s...

The respiratory system consists of a network of organs like the nose, mouth, voice box, windpipe, airways, lungs, blood vessels, and specific muscles. All work together in a coordinated manner and help in respiration. Upper Respirat...