Health

💡TL;DR: COPD has 4 stages based on how much air you blow out in 1 second (FEV1) after a bronchodilator: ≥80% (mild), 50–79% (moderate), 30–49% (severe), and <30% (very severe). GOLD 2024 also groups people by symptoms and flare-up risk (A, B, E) to fine-tune treatment.

When Is COPD Considered a Disability? 💡TL;DR: Yes, COPD can be a disability when it substantially limits breathing or prevents steady full-time work for 12 months or more. Social Security approves COPD claims either by meeting strict Blue Book lung test cutoffs or by showing you cannot sustain any

💡TL;DR: Most people with RSV are contagious for about 3 to 8 days after symptoms start, and you can begin spreading the virus 1 to 2 days before you feel sick. Babies, toddlers, older adults, and people with weak immune systems can shed RSV much longer, sometimes for 3

💡TL;DR: Yes, insurance typically covers nebulizers when your doctor prescribes one as medically necessary. Under Medicare Part B, you usually pay 20% after the deductible and receive the device as a capped rental you own after 13 months; basic units cost about $50–$150 if paying cash. Private plans

💡TL;DR: Pleurisy is inflammation of the lining around your lungs that causes sharp chest pain that worsens when you breathe in. Most cases improve in about 7–14 days once the cause is treated (for example, antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia and NSAIDs for pain). Doctors confirm by exam and

💡TL;DR: Bivona tracheostomy tubes are soft silicone tubes that keep the airway open and come in cuffed (TTS), uncuffed, foam-cuff, and adjustable-flange options. Silicone improves comfort and flexibility, and many models can be sterilized and reused up to 10 times per manufacturer guidance. A TTS cuff deflates tight to

💡TL;DR: Bronchitis usually does not turn into pneumonia, but pneumonia can develop during or after bronchitis in some people, especially older adults, infants, smokers, and those with weak immunity. Pneumonia infects the lung air sacs and is generally more serious, with higher fever, faster breathing, and chest pain. Watch

💡TL;DR: Obstructive sleep apnea can run in families: having a first-degree relative with OSA is linked to about a 50% higher risk. Central sleep apnea is usually not inherited. Genetics explain roughly 40% of apnea severity, while weight, airway anatomy, alcohol, age, and other factors explain the rest. Practical

💡TL;DR: Yes—pneumonia can cause back pain when inflamed lung linings (pleurisy) make each deep breath or cough painful. The pain is usually sharp in the upper or mid‑back and occurs with cough, fever, and shortness of breath. About 1 million U.S. adults are hospitalized for pneumonia