Emerging Infectious Diseases

Chronic Respiratory diseases

Chronic respiratory diseases are diseases of airways and other structures of the lung. Some of the most common are COPD, pulmonary hypertension, occupational lung diseases and asthma. Tobacco smoke is a major key factor in the development and progression respiratory diseases, including COPD although exposure to air pollutants in the home, workplace, genetic factors, and also  respiratory infections also play a role. Antibiotics and corticosteroids are used in treating patients with acute exacerbations of this disease  and clinicians choose different antibiotics and varying doses of steroids. COPD affects more men than women, however the rates in women are increasing.