Research and select a respiratory disease that has a significant impact on society and the health care industry. Examples are tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma, influenza, or a respiratory illness that is currently prevalent.
Write a 700 word paper.
Your paper should:
• Describe the respiratory disease you selected.
• Describe the treatments used to treat the disease.
• Consider holistic and traditional treatments.
• Identify the disease type (primary, secondary, or tertiary) for the respiratory disease.
• Describe why the respiratory disease is classified as the disease type you identified.
• Describe what impact the respiratory disease you selected has on society as it relates to the business of health care and the use of resources.
Cite at least 2 reputable references.
Sample Solution
Sample Solution
The Impact of Asthma on Society and the Healthcare Industry
Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing, which can vary in severity and frequency. This essay will explore the impact of asthma on society and the healthcare industry, including the types of treatments used, the disease classification, and its implications for resource utilization.
Description of Asthma
Asthma is a common respiratory disease that affects people of all ages, but it most often starts in childhood. It is a chronic condition in which the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs. This inflammation and constriction can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, irritants, respiratory infections, exercise, and stress.
Treatments for Asthma
The management of asthma involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. The primary goal is to control symptoms, prevent exacerbations, and improve overall lung function. The following are commonly used treatments for asthma:
Bronchodilators: These medications help to relax the muscles surrounding the airways, allowing them to open up and improve airflow. Short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, provide quick relief during acute episodes, while long-acting bronchodilators, such as salmeterol, are used for maintenance therapy.
Inhaled Corticosteroids: These medications reduce airway inflammation and are the most effective long-term control medications for asthma. They are generally safe and have few side effects when used as directed.
Leukotriene Modifiers: These medications block the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals released during an asthma attack. They can be used as an alternative or in addition to inhaled corticosteroids.
Immunotherapy: For individuals with allergic asthma, allergen immunotherapy may be recommended. This involves gradually exposing the person to small amounts of the allergen to desensitize their immune system and reduce asthma symptoms.
Holistic and Traditional Treatments
In addition to conventional medical treatments, many individuals with asthma seek out holistic or alternative therapies to complement their care. These may include:
Breathing exercises: Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing can help improve lung function and reduce symptoms.
Acupuncture: Some individuals find that acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, can help alleviate asthma symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Herbal remedies: Certain herbal supplements, such as butterbur and boswellia, have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties. However, their efficacy and safety for asthma management require further research.
Disease Classification
Asthma is classified as a primary respiratory disease. Primary diseases are those that originate in the respiratory system itself, rather than being caused by an underlying condition or external factor. In the case of asthma, the inflammation and narrowing of the airways occur due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Impact on Society and Healthcare Resources
Asthma has a significant impact on society as it relates to the business of healthcare and the use of resources. The following are some key aspects of this impact:
Healthcare costs: The management of asthma requires ongoing medical care, including regular doctor visits, medication prescriptions, and diagnostic tests. The direct costs associated with asthma treatment can be substantial, placing a financial burden on individuals, families, and healthcare systems.
Missed work and school: Asthma attacks can lead to missed days of work or school for individuals affected by the disease, as well as for parents of children with asthma. This can result in decreased productivity, educational disruptions, and economic losses.
Emergency department visits and hospitalizations: Severe asthma exacerbations may require emergency department visits or hospitalizations for appropriate management. These acute episodes can strain healthcare resources and lead to increased healthcare costs.
Public health initiatives: Asthma control and prevention programs are essential for reducing the burden of asthma on society. These initiatives focus on education, early detection, and appropriate management of asthma to prevent severe exacerbations and improve patient outcomes.
In conclusion, asthma is a respiratory disease that has a significant impact on society and the healthcare industry. It requires a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments to control symptoms and improve lung function. Asthma is classified as a primary respiratory disease, and its impact on society includes healthcare costs, missed work and school days, emergency department visits, and the need for public health initiatives. By understanding the implications of asthma on society, healthcare professionals and policymakers can work together to improve the management and prevention of this chronic condition.
References
Global Initiative for Asthma. (2020). Global strategy for asthma management and prevention. Retrieved from https://ginasthma.org/reports/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Asthma: Data, statistics, and surveillance. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/most_recent_data.htm
