What does RI mean in PHYSIOLOGY

Common signs and symptoms of respiratory illness include persistent coughing, chest tightness or congestion, wheezing or shortness of breath, a high fever, and green or yellow mucus.

There are many different causes of respiratory illness including viral infections like the flu or common cold; bacterial infections such as pneumonia; allergens such as dust mites; long-term exposure to irritants like smoke; certain medications; and lung conditions such as COPD.

Depending on the type of respiratory illness that is suspected, the doctor may order one or more tests to investigate further. Some tests commonly used to diagnose RI include X-rays, CT scans, pulmonary function tests (PFTs), sputum cultures, spirometry exam, and lab work.

Treatment for RI will depend on the specific cause of the illness as well as its severity. Generally speaking, treatment options can include taking medications (such as antibiotics for bacterial infections), inhalers for asthma or other conditions affecting airway function, oxygen therapy for those with low oxygen levels in their blood, lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly to strengthen breathing muscles and improve lung capacity. In some cases surgery may be necessary if medicine alone isn't sufficient to treat the underlying cause.