Health News
Baby's Artificial Lung Bridges to a Better Tomorrow
Waiting for an organ to become available for a much needed transplant can be excruciating for patients and families. Many times, this story doesn't have a happy ending, as patients on transplant lists frequently run out of time.
The Skinny on New Asthma Drug
A new generation asthma drug Formoterol, which is a synthetic catecholamine, seems to improve metabolism too. Could it be quit coughing and get skinny time?
Combat Cough Revisited
American veterans serving in Iraq and Afghanistan are coming home with more than honor and dignity. Our soldiers are coming home with a respiratory disease the government is calling Iraq-Afghanistan War Lung Injury (IAW-LI).
Cystic Fibrosis Drug Treats 'Celtic Gene'
New research has shown that the basic defect in those with cystic fibrosis (CF) can be treated with a new drug which can lead to better lung function and alleviation of symptoms.
Gasping for Air
"I couldn't breathe, I could barely walk, and felt like I was going to collapse or pass out when I did."
"I can't stand but for a couple minutes, or walk very far that I am not gasping for breath."
"Everything feels like it’s a hill I have to climb, but don’t have the energy, and breath to do it. I am really trying to have a more positive attitude, maybe I need a swift kick in the butt!"
All of these individuals - writing on a patient support forum - are talking about what it's like for them to live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.
Inhaler Linked to Increased COPD Deaths
Johns Hopkins-led research suggests using Respimat Soft Mist Inhaler to deliver tiotropium (Spiriva) to chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) patients is linked to a 52 percent increase in risk of death.
FDA: Chantix (varenicline) May Increase Cardiovascular Risk
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is notifying the public that the smoking cessation aid Chantix ( varenicline ) may be associated with a small, increased risk of certain cardiovascular adverse events in patients who have cardiovascular disease.
Non-invasive Ventilation Trumps Other Weaning Methods
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may also suffer from chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure (CHRF).
E-Waste May Cause Lung Problems
E-waste, or electronic waste, describes computers, televisions, printers and mobile phones that have gone on to meet their maker. Safely processing the 20-50 million tons of e-waste should adhere to worldwide standards.
Cockroach Allergens Linked To Asthma
Children can live as little as two blocks from each other in New York City and have an asthma occurrence two to three times greater in one neighborhood as opposed to the other. Researchers decided to take a look at each asthmatic's home environment.