Pathophysiology of dyspnea
Article Abstract:
The physiological causes of dyspnea, shortness of breath, are poorly understood and may involve various signals in the nervous system. Studying the causes of dyspnea is difficult because no single stimulus causes the sensation. Dyspnea is often accompanied by a sense that greater muscular effort is required to breathe, due to weakened respiratory muscles or an external stress. Dyspnea may also be caused high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood or, though less likely, low oxygen levels. Receptors in the chest muscles, airways, and lungs may cause dyspnea by detecting muscle stretch, airway distortion, or congestion. The mechanisms of dyspnea probably vary with the underlying disease. Attempts at treating dyspnea include treatment of the underlying disease, strengthening respiratory muscles, various breathing techniques, and administration of opioid drugs.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1995
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A nine-year-old girl with fever and cervical lymphadenopathy
Article Abstract:
A nine-year-old girl was admitted to a hospital because she had a prolonged fever and enlarged lymph nodes. She had been scratched by the family kitten, so her doctors initially suspected cat scratch disease. She also had a history of asthma. Physical exam revealed enlarged lymph nodes and other signs of a chronic illness. She had several signs of systemic lupus erythematosus, including the presence of antinuclear antibodies in her blood. Microscopic examination of a lymph node biopsy confirmed that she had lupus.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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