Understanding Respiratory Ailments and Tobacco's Effects

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory diseases affect the lungs and airways, impacting breathing and overall health. They can be caused by various factors, including bacteria, viruses, and environmental irritants like tobacco.

Bacterial Respiratory Infections

These conditions are caused by bacterial pathogens and can range from mild to severe.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining inside the bones that are in contact with the nasal passages. Symptoms include pain over the eyebrows and forehead.

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Pharyngitis is a diffuse inflammation of the pharynx. If the inflammation is located in the tonsils, it is called tonsillitis. These conditions may be caused by microbes, cold air, and irritants such as alcohol and tobacco, which can injure pharyngeal cells and favor microbial development. Symptoms include sore throat, dryness, and sometimes fever. If left untreated, these conditions may increase the occurrence of rheumatism and heart anomalies.

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, causing alteration of voice, aphonia (loss of voice), and a feeling of discomfort in the throat. It is generally caused by microbes and is favored by factors such as tobacco, alcohol, air pollution, and misuse of the voice.

Bronchial Asthma

Bronchial asthma is characterized by a decrease in the diameter of the bronchi, which hinders the passage of air to the lungs and produces a sensation of suffocation during breathing. The cause may be an allergic reaction or inflammation of the bronchial walls.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis (bacillus of Koch), which destroys the lungs, causing cavities.

Viral Respiratory Infections

These conditions are caused by viruses and are often highly contagious.

Common Cold

The common cold is an illness caused by a virus. It is characterized by an abundance of runny nose and sneezing. It typically disappears after a week.

Influenza (Flu)

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a virus that leads to bone and muscle aches, high fever, and a runny nose. It can be fatal in the elderly and those with delicate health, making vaccination highly desirable. Because the virus changes frequently, the vaccine is different each year.

Impact of Tobacco on Respiratory Health

Smoking is one of the most harmful habits, creating both physical and psychological dependence. It is a drug tolerated due to the large monetary benefits it provides. Many respiratory diseases are exacerbated or favored by tobacco use.

Harmful Substances in Tobacco

Tobacco contains numerous harmful substances that negatively impact the respiratory system and overall health.

Tar

Tar is deposited on respiratory surfaces, preventing gas exchange. Additionally, many of its components facilitate the transformation of normal cells into cancerous ones.

Nicotine

Nicotine produces an increase in respiratory and cardiac frequency, as well as gastric secretion. Furthermore, it creates dependency.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon Monoxide (CO) causes arteriosclerosis (loss of flexibility of the arteries), decreased mental alertness, and headaches.