6 Respiratory Illnesses That Could Mean Trouble for Your Lungs

With seasonal sickness in full swing, now is the perfect time for a reminder on the most pervasive respiratory illnesses that could seriously affect your breathing.

By Jack Knudson; Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ahmad Talha Azam
Jan 12, 2024 4:00 PM
Woman who is sick with a serious respiratory illness
Respiratory illness (Credit: Prostock-studio/Shutterstock)

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Amid all the working parts of the human body, the respiratory system administers some of the most important functions that keep us alive. This ensemble of organs, which contains the mouth, nose, throat, and lungs, lets us breathe and talk, manages our body temperature, brings oxygen to other organs, and removes waste carbon dioxide. 

A plethora of diseases can target the respiratory system, disrupting our health in ways that limit those essential functions. 

Be on the watch for these respiratory illnesses that may have a significant impact on your health.

1. Influenza

Known commonly as the “flu”, influenza makes its return each winter as cases spike. Certain flu statistics are difficult to discern because the illness is not always reported, but the World Health Organization estimates 290,000 to 650,000 flu-related deaths around the world annually. 

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