Respiratory health Archive

In most cases, bee, wasp, or hornet stings can be treated with simple remedies. For example, placing a cold pack on the sting site helps reduce swelling. Applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream helps relieve swelling and itching, too. Taking an antihistamine—such as fexofenadine (Allegra) or loratadine (Claritin)—also eases itching. If symptoms persist for a few days, it’s time to call a doctor. If a severe allergic response develops—indicated by difficulty breathing or hives—it’s crucial to call 911 for help and get an injection of epinephrine as soon as possible.

Stuffy nose and sneezing caused by allergies can narrow airways and disrupt sleep, sometimes fueling snoring and even sleep apnea. Targeted treatment may help.

As a sunken chest becomes more noticeable with age, shortness of breath, stamina limits, and heart or lung compression may emerge.

Lung scarring from pulmonary fibrosis can cause breathlessness and cough. Learn about symptom relief and newer treatment options.

A lung nodule on imaging can stem from scars, infection, or cancer. Learn how doctors judge the risk and decide between watching, testing, or removal.

Experts say many over-the-counter cough medicines are ineffective, and that those suffering from a cold-related cough should take an antihistamine with a nasal decongestant.

A persistent cough that lasts longer than a few weeks can be worrisome, but for nonsmokers, the most common causes include asthma, bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and medication for high blood pressure.

Several health issues are associated with nighttime coughing. Some of the most common are postnasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), medication side effects, and heart failure. When a new nighttime cough lasts more than a few weeks, it's important to go to a doctor to rule out dangerous causes, such as heart failure. The doctor can also determine if a drug side effect, postnasal drip, or GERD is causing the cough, and prescribe medications to treat the condition.

Years without wheezing or inhalers can raise questions. Learn how breathing tests help clarify if asthma is truly gone or still there.

Sudden gasps for air at night can be alarming. Explore how allergies, blocked airways, or more serious sleep and heart problems might be involved.