CardioPulmonary Physical Therapy Assignment

By Neha Sarfraz (Roll Number 15)

TOPIC 1: Pneumonia

Definition
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It is
characterized by inflammation of the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, which can fill with fluid
or pus. This can make it difficult to breathe and can lead to other complications, such as
sepsis.

Causes
The most common cause of pneumonia is bacteria. The bacteria that most commonly cause
pneumonia are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Mycoplasma
pneumoniae. Viral pneumonia is less common, but it can be caused by a variety of viruses,
including the flu (influenza), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and parainfluenza virus.
Fungal pneumonia is the least common type of pneumonia, but it can be serious, especially in
people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms
The symptoms of pneumonia can vary depending on the type of pneumonia and the severity
of the infection. However, some common symptoms include:
 Cough

 Fever

 Wheezing

 Chest pain

 Shortness of breath

 Fatigue

 Chills

 Nausea and vomiting

Types

There are three main types of pneumonia:

  Bacterial pneumonia is the most common type of pneumonia. It is caused by bacteria that can
be spread through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
 Viral pneumonia is less common than bacterial pneumonia, but it can be more serious. It is
caused by a variety of viruses that can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an
infected person coughs or sneezes.
 Fungal pneumonia is the least common type of pneumonia. It is caused by fungi that can be
inhaled from the environment.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pneumonia is usually made based on a physical examination and a chest X-
ray. The doctor may also order a blood test to check for infection.

Treatment
The treatment for pneumonia depends on the type of pneumonia and the severity of the
infection. Bacterial pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics. Viral pneumonia often
resolves on its own, but antiviral medications may be prescribed in some cases. Fungal
pneumonia is treated with antifungal medications.

Complications
Pneumonia can have a number of complications, including:
 Sepsis is a serious infection that can lead to death.
 Aspiration pneumonia is a type of pneumonia that occurs when food or liquid is inhaled into
the lungs.
 Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition that is characterized by the widening of the
bronchi.
 Heart failure can occur in people with pneumonia if the infection damages the heart muscle.

Prevention
There are a number of things that can be done to help prevent pneumonia, including:
 Getting vaccinated against pneumonia. There are two vaccines that can help protect against
pneumonia: the pneumococcal vaccine and the influenza vaccine.
 Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
 Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
 Eating a healthy diet and getting enough rest.

Conclusion
Pneumonia is a serious infection that can affect people of all ages. However, there are a
number of things that can be done to help prevent pneumonia. If you think you may have
pneumonia, it is important to see a doctor right away so that you can get the treatment you
need.

TOPIC 2: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Definition
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung injury that causes
inflammation and fluid buildup in the lungs. This makes it difficult to breathe and can lead to
other complications, such as sepsis.

Causes
ARDS can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
 Sepsis, a serious infection that spreads throughout the body
 Trauma, such as a car accident or a gunshot wound
 Aspiration, when food or liquid is inhaled into the lungs
 Severe pneumonia
 Certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer or organ transplant rejection

Clinical features
The symptoms of ARDS can vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, some
common symptoms include:
 Shortness of breath
 Rapid breathing
 Low blood oxygen levels
 Cyanosis, a bluish tint to the skin and lips
 Chest pain
 Rales, crackling sounds in the lungs

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of ARDS is usually made based on a physical examination, a chest X-ray, and
a blood test. The doctor may also order other tests, such as a CT scan of the lungs or a
bronchoscopy.

Treatment
The treatment for ARDS is aimed at supporting the patient's breathing and preventing
complications. This may include:
 Oxygen therapy
  Mechanical ventilation, which helps the patient breathe
 Fluid management
 Nutritional support
 Treatment of the underlying cause

Prognosis
The prognosis for ARDS varies depending on the severity of the injury and the patient's
overall health. However, even with treatment, ARDS can be a fatal condition.

Prevention
There is no sure way to prevent ARDS, but there are some things that can be done to reduce
the risk, such as:
 Getting vaccinated against pneumonia and influenza
 Washing your hands frequently with soap and water
 Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
 Eating a healthy diet and getting enough rest

Conclusion
ARDS is a serious lung injury that can be life-threatening. However, with early diagnosis and
treatment, the chances of survival are good. If you think you may have ARDS, it is important
to see a doctor right away so that you can get the treatment you need.