Smoking is the leading cause of emphysema, a disease of the lungs that makes it hard to breathe. Learn more about how emphysema affects you and how it's treated.
Choking occurs when an object, a piece of food, or a liquid blocks a person's throat. Learn about some possible causes of choking and what you can do about it.
During a heart attack, blood supply that normally nourishes the heart with oxygen is cut off and the heart muscle begins to die. Here's what you should know.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a chronic condition that affects the pumping power of your heart muscles. Often referred to as "heart failure," CHF occurs when fluid…
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by fungi, bacteria, or viruses. General symptoms include chest pain, fever, cough, and trouble breathing.
Anaphylaxis can occur when you have a severe reaction to certain allergens. Learn what the symptoms are and what to do if this happens.
Pneumothorax is the medical term for a collapsed lung. This occurs when air is trapped in the space around the lungs. A collapsed lung can result in your chest feeling…
An irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) is a change in the heart's beating pattern. There are many different types with different causes and effects.
Pulmonary edema is a condition in which the lungs fill with fluid. It's also known as lung congestion, lung water, and pulmonary congestion. When pulmonary edema occurs…
There are two main types of lung cancer: non-small cell and small-cell. Learn about how these lung cancers are caused, your treatment options, and more.
Bronchiectasis causes symptoms like chronic coughing, coughing up blood, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Read about treatment options.
A deviated septum may cause health complications such as difficulty breathing. Learn more about the causes, symptoms, treatments, and more.
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is your body's response to specific allergens. It causes uncomfortable symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes.
A head injury is an injury to your brain, skull, or scalp. This can range from a mild bump or bruise to a traumatic brain injury. Common head injuries include concussions,
Epiglottitis is characterized by inflamed tissue in your epiglottis. It's a potentially life-threatening condition. Learn who gets it, why, and how it's treated.
An empyema is a condition in which pus collects in the pleural space, which is the area between your lungs and the inner surface of your chest wall.
Respiratory acidosis occurs when the lungs cannot remove enough of the CO2 produced by the body. It is typically caused by an underlying condition.
Acute bronchitis causes coughs that produce mucus. You don't need antibiotics, but bed rest and home care can help.
Anxiety happens naturally, but some people experience it more than others. Learn how to tell the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder as well as…
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases. Here's what you should know about symptoms, diagnosis, and management.
This feature is for informational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose. Please consult a healthcare professional if you have health concerns.