Bronchitis is a condition in which the airways in the lungs, called bronchial tubes, become inflamed and cause coughing, often with mucus. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Learn more about bronchitis causes, symptoms, and treatment.
Bronchitis
Image by BruceBlaus
What Is
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis?
Image by CDC
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis?
When you have bronchitis, the airways in your lungs swell and produce mucus, which causes you to cough.
Image by CDC
What Is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a condition that develops when the airways in the lungs, called bronchial tubes, become inflamed and cause coughing, often with mucus production. Bronchitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).
Acute bronchitis, which is very common, usually results, from an infection, and may be contagious. Most people recover after a few days or weeks.
Chronic bronchitis is defined as lasting for at least three months and returning at least two years in a row. In chronic bronchitis, breathing can be more difficult because the airway lining stays inflamed, which leads to swelling and more mucus production.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (32)
What Is Bronchitis?
Video by Health Units/YouTube
What Is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis : Figure A shows the location of the lungs and bronchial tubes in the body. Figure B is an enlarged, detailed view of a normal bronchial tube. Figure C is an enlarged, detailed view of a bronchial tube with bronchitis. The tube is inflamed and contains more mucus than usual.
Image by National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
What is chronic bronchitis? | Respiratory system diseases | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy
Medicines you should have on hand this cold and flu season
TODAY/YouTube
Causes
TEM of avian infectious bronchitis virus
Image by CDC/ Dr. Fred Murphy; Sylvia Whitfield/Wikimedia
TEM of avian infectious bronchitis virus
This 1975, digitally colorized transmission electron microscopic (TEM) image, depicted four avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) virions, which are Coronaviridae family members. IBV is a highly contagious pathogen, which infects poultry of all ages, affecting a number of organ systems, including the respiratory and urogenital organs. IBV possesses a helical genome, composed of non-segmented, positive-sense single-stranded RNA ((+) ssRNA). This is an enveloped virus, which means that its outermost covering is derived from the host cell membrane. The coronavirus derives its name from the fact that under electron microscopic examination, each virion is surrounded by a corona, or halo, due to the presence of viral spike peplomers emanating from its proteinaceous capsid.
Image by CDC/ Dr. Fred Murphy; Sylvia Whitfield/Wikimedia
What Causes Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is usually caused by airway inflammation from viral infections, such as the cold, influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus RSV, or COVID-19 viruses. Occasionally, a bacterial infection can cause acute bronchitis.
Chronic bronchitis is a frequent symptom, along with emphysema and asthma, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There are a number of risk factors for chronic bronchitis:
Cigarette smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke (cigarette smoke from someone else)
Older age
Exposure to fumes or certain kinds of dust
A family history of COPD
A history of respiratory diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, or bronchiecstasis.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Chronic bronchitis does not increase the risk of COVID-19; however, it does increase the risk of complications after getting COVID-19.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (13)
Air Pollution
Air Pollution
Image by Pixource
What Causes Bronchitis?
Sunset at the cement factory during a snow storm. Air Pollutants can contribute to acute bronchitis
Image by From the National Park Service source
Bronchitis: What to You Need to Know | WebMD
Video by WebMD/YouTube
What Causes Acute Bronchitis?
Video by Rehealthify/YouTube
Air Pollution
Air Pollution
Image by Ioannis Ioannidis
Indoor Air Pollution
Cleaning the air cooler filter at Stacken.
Image by Janwikifoto
Air pollution
"Photo was taken prior to installation of emission controls equipment for removal of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter."
Image by From the National Park Service source
Air pollution
Smokestacks from a wartime production plant, World War II
Image by Alfred Palmer, Library of Congress
Air pollution
On May 18, 1980, at 8:32 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time, a magnitude 5.1 earthquake shook Mount St. Helens. The bulge and surrounding area slid away in a gigantic rockslide and debris avalanche, releasing pressure, and triggering a major pumice and ash eruption of the volcano. Thirteen-hundred feet (400 meters) of the peak collapsed or blew outwards. As a result, 24 square miles (62 square kilometers) of valley was filled by a debris avalanche, 250 square miles (650 square kilometers) of recreation, timber, and private lands were damaged by a lateral blast, and an estimated 200 million cubic yards (150 million cubic meters) of material was deposited directly by lahars (volcanic mudflows) into the river channels. Fifty-seven people were killed or are still missing.
Image by Austin Post, scanned photograph by USGS, cleaned by and adjusted by carol
Air pollution
A C-141 Starlifter leaves a contrail over Antarctica.
Image by Simons/Staff Sgt. (according to Exif data)
Smoke, Pollution, Sunset, Smog
Image by jplenio/Pixabay
Nitric Oxide - Car Pollution
Nitric Oxide - Car Pollution
Image by Ben Kerckx
Air Pollution
Air Pollution
Image by SD-Pictures
Air Pollution
Pixource
What Causes Bronchitis?
From the National Park Service source
1:10
Bronchitis: What to You Need to Know | WebMD
WebMD/YouTube
0:52
What Causes Acute Bronchitis?
Rehealthify/YouTube
Air Pollution
Ioannis Ioannidis
Indoor Air Pollution
Janwikifoto
Air pollution
From the National Park Service source
Air pollution
Alfred Palmer, Library of Congress
Air pollution
Austin Post, scanned photograph by USGS, cleaned by and adjusted by carol
Air pollution
Simons/Staff Sgt. (according to Exif data)
Smoke, Pollution, Sunset, Smog
jplenio/Pixabay
Nitric Oxide - Car Pollution
Ben Kerckx
Air Pollution
SD-Pictures
Risk Factors
Cross section of Head showing Smoke drawn in through the Mouth
Image by TheVisualMD
Cross section of Head showing Smoke drawn in through the Mouth
A cross-section of a smoker's head in profile as he inhales a puff of smoke. His nasal passage, mouth and pharynx anatomy is visible as well as part of the trachea and bones of the shoulder, head and hand. Part of an interactive depiction of nicotine's pathway through the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Who Is at Risk for Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a very common condition. Millions of cases occur every year.
Elderly people, infants, and young children are at higher risk for acute bronchitis than people in other age groups.
People of all ages can develop chronic bronchitis, but it occurs more often in people who are older than 45. Also, many adults who develop chronic bronchitis are smokers. Women are more than twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with chronic bronchitis.
Smoking and having an existing lung disease greatly increase your risk for bronchitis. Contact with dust, chemical fumes, and vapors from certain jobs also increases your risk for the condition. Examples include jobs in coal mining, textile manufacturing, grain handling, and livestock farming.
Air pollution, infections, and allergies can worsen the symptoms of chronic bronchitis, especially if you smoke.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
An ambient PM10 high-volume sampler in a west Texas dust storm. A storm like this exposes samplers to dust particles greater than 10 micrometers, and larger dust particles increase the overall error associated with ambient air samples.
Image by USDA Agricultural Research Service/Photo by Stephen Ausmus.
Farmer dust from wheat crop
Farmer dust from wheat crop
Image by aamiraimer/Pixabay
Tornado at beginning of life - NOAA
Tornado at beginning of life - condensation funnel has not yet reached ground. However, dust cloud at surface indicates tornado touchdown. During "Sound Chase", a joint project of NSSL and Mississippi State University.
Location: Cordell, Oklahoma, USA
Image by NOAA Photo Library, NOAA Central Library; OAR/ERL/National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL)
d3521-1 : USDA ARS
ARS rangeland ecologist Matt Rinella assesses shrubs on coal mining lands as part of a research project on restoring shrubs to degraded rangelands.
Image by USDA Agricultural Research Service/Photo by Matt Rinella.
Coal Miners
FIRST SHIFT OF MINERS AT THE VIRGINIA-POCAHONTAS COAL COMPANY MINE #4 NEAR RICHLANDS, VIRGINIA, LEAVING THE ELEVATOR. THEY WILL BE REPLACED BY THE SECOND WORK SHIFT THAT WILL WORK FROM 4 P.M TO MIDNIGHT. A MIDNIGHT TO MORNING OR "HOOT-OWL" SHIFT WILL CONDUCT CLEAN-UP OPERATIONS. MANY OF THE MEN CARRY THEIR OWN WATER JUGS FROM HOME, PREFERRING TO DO THAT TO DRINKING THE COMPANY PROVIDED WATER. THOSE WHO SMOKE ABOVE GROUND CHEW TOBACCO WHILE AT WORK
Image by Corn, Jack, 1929-, Photographer
Smoking Head
KlausHausmann/Pixabay
Smoking, Cigarette, Smoke
Comfreak/Pixabay
Allergy
NIAID
k10519-6 : USDA ARS
USDA Agricultural Research Service/Photo by Stephen Ausmus.
Farmer dust from wheat crop
aamiraimer/Pixabay
Tornado at beginning of life - NOAA
NOAA Photo Library, NOAA Central Library; OAR/ERL/National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL)
d3521-1 : USDA ARS
USDA Agricultural Research Service/Photo by Matt Rinella.
Coal Miners
Corn, Jack, 1929-, Photographer
Symptoms
Depiction of a person suffering from Bronchitis
Image by https://www.myupchar.com
Depiction of a person suffering from Bronchitis
Depiction of a person suffering from Bronchitis. The typical symptoms of Bronchitis have been shown. Also, the change in bronchi under bronchitis has been illustrated.
Image by https://www.myupchar.com
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bronchitis?
The symptoms are the same for both acute and chronic bronchitis:
Cough with mucus
Chest pain
Tiredness
Low fever of below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Symptoms of acute cases clear on their own after 2 − 3 weeks. With chronic bronchitis, a productive cough can last three months or longer.
See your healthcare provider if your cough does not go away after 2 − 3 weeks, gets worse, or if you have trouble breathing.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Diagnosis
Physical exam of child with stethoscope on chest
Image by Ragesoss
Physical exam of child with stethoscope on chest
A young girl, age 15 months, undergoing a physical examination. The pediatrician is using a stethoscope on the right side of the child's chest.
Image by Ragesoss
How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
To diagnose bronchitis, your healthcare provider will do a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms. Your provider may also order a blood test to look for signs of infection, or a chest X-ray to check whether your lungs and bronchial tubes look normal. These additional tests are required because cough is a symptom for many other conditions, such as pneumonia, COVID-19, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), and asthma.
Bronchitis has also been linked with other diseases such as pneumonia, which includes other symptoms like high fever (100.4 degrees or above), fast breathing, and a higher heart rate. A history of wheezing and coughing is linked to asthma. Two of three people who had bronchitis at least twice in five years also had asthma.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (7)
How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
Modern stethoscope
Image by this version: Sonarpulse. origenal:Huji
Bronchitis: Consequences, Symptoms & Treatment – Respiratory Medicine | Lecturio
Video by Lecturio Medical/YouTube
Bronchitis
Video by DrER.tv/YouTube
Stethoscope Placement for Auscultation
Proper placement of the bell of the stethoscope facilitates auscultation. At each of the four locations on the chest, a different valve can be heard.
Image by CNX Openstax
Pediatric Exam
Pediatric Exam
Image by Semevent
Doctor Examination
Doctors may find evidence of atherosclerosis in the course of a physical exam. Signs of atherosclerosis include whooshing sounds (bruits) heard through a stethoscope; weak pulse, decreased blood pressure, or poor wound healing in affected areas; or signs of an aneurysm. A physical examination together with a medical history is used by doctor to assist in the diagnosis process. Physical examinations are not only reserved for patients experiencing symptoms but is also recommended as a way of ensuring general health is good- you won't always notice symptoms when something is wrong.
Image by TheVisualMD
Application of Holter Monitor on Patient
A Holter monitor is a portable EKG that can be worn for a day or more. Because of its extended recording period, it can be useful for observing cardiac arrhythmias that would be difficult to identify in a shorter length of time. Several electrodes are place around the patient's chest in locations conducive to picking up heart beats. The electrodes connect to a device worn around the patient's neck that will keep a recorded log of all the electrical information as long as the electrodes are worn. A physician can then analyze the logs and make more informed decisions about the patient's heart condition.
Image by TheVisualMD
How Is Bronchitis Diagnosed?
this version: Sonarpulse. origenal:Huji
4:38
Bronchitis: Consequences, Symptoms & Treatment – Respiratory Medicine | Lecturio
Lecturio Medical/YouTube
6:23
Bronchitis
DrER.tv/YouTube
Stethoscope Placement for Auscultation
CNX Openstax
Pediatric Exam
Semevent
Doctor Examination
TheVisualMD
Application of Holter Monitor on Patient
TheVisualMD
Pulse Oximetry Test
Pulse Oximetry Test
Also called: Pulse Ox, Oxygen Saturation Monitor, Oxygen Saturation by Pulse Oximetry, Peripheral Oxygen Saturation, SpO2, Finger Pulse Oximeter
Pulse oximetry is a quick and painless test that measures blood oxygen levels. Your organs need a steady supply of blood oxygen to work properly. This test can help people with serious or chronic lung disease get quick treatment if their oxygen level gets too low.
Pulse Oximetry Test
Also called: Pulse Ox, Oxygen Saturation Monitor, Oxygen Saturation by Pulse Oximetry, Peripheral Oxygen Saturation, SpO2, Finger Pulse Oximeter
Pulse oximetry is a quick and painless test that measures blood oxygen levels. Your organs need a steady supply of blood oxygen to work properly. This test can help people with serious or chronic lung disease get quick treatment if their oxygen level gets too low.
{"label":"Pulse Oximetry Reference Range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"units":[{"printSymbol":"%","code":"%","name":"percent"}],"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"vertical"},"values":{"min":0,"max":92},"text":"Oxygen levels below the normal values indicate hypoxemia. The lower the oxygen level, the more severe the hypoxemia.","conditions":["Asthma","Heart diseases, including congenital heart disease","High altitude","Anemia","Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)","Interstitial lung disease","Emphysema","Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)","Pneumonia","Obstruction of an artery in the lung","Pulmonary fibrosis or scarring and damage to the lungs","Presence of air or gas in the chest","Excess fluid in the lungs","Sleep apnea","Certain medications"]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"Equivocal","long":"Equivocal","orientation":"vertical"},"values":{"min":92,"max":95},"text":"At rest, blood oxygen should be at least 92% or higher.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"vertical"},"values":{"min":95,"max":100},"text":"In healthy people, the oxygen level runs between 95-100%.","conditions":[]}],"value":97.5}[{"abnormal":0},{"borderline":0},{"normal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
%
92
95
Your result is Normal.
In healthy people, the oxygen level runs between 95-100%.
Related conditions
Pulse oximetry is a test that uses a small, clip-like device called a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen levels in the blood. When you breathe, your lungs take in oxygen and send it into your bloodstream. This oxygen-rich blood is carried into your heart, which pumps it to the rest of your body. If your blood oxygen level (oxygen saturation) is too low, it can make it hard for your body to work properly. It can put a dangerous strain on your vital organs.
Pulse oximetry is a painless and quick way to find out if your oxygen level is too low. Quick treatment of low blood oxygen may help you avoid serious complications.
Pulse oximetry is used to check your blood oxygen level. The test may be done in a provider's office, clinic, hospital, or even your own home. An at-home pulse oximeter may be useful if you have a serious and/or chronic lung disease.
Your provider may give you a pulse-oximetry test as part of a routine checkup, or if you:
Have a condition that affects lung function. These include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, heart failure, and COVID-19.
Are taking medicine to treat lung disease. The test can show how well the medicine is working.
Are having surgery. Your blood oxygen level may be checked before, during, and after your procedure.
Have sleep apnea. This condition causes you to briefly stop breathing during sleep. You may have repeated episodes of breathing interruptions during a single night's sleep There can be as many as 30 episodes per hour.
During pulse oximetry:
A small electronic device called a pulse oximeter will be clipped to a part of your body, usually a fingertip.
The oximeter uses a special type of light that passes through your skin and into your blood.
A sensor on the oximeter measures the amount of light. That measurement is used to figure out your blood oxygen level.
After a few seconds, the oximeter will provide a readout of your heart rate and oxygen level.
If you have a condition that affects lung function, your health care provider may recommend you use an at-home finger pulse oximeter or other oximeter to monitor your condition. Your provider will guide you on how to purchase and use your at-home device.
If you or your provider is using a finger pulse oximeter, you should remove any fingernail polish. Nail polish can block the light emitted from the oximeter.
There is no known risk to having pulse oximetry.
Results are often given as oxygen saturation levels. A normal oxygen saturation level ranges between 95 percent and 100 percent. Saturation levels may be somewhat lower and considered acceptable if you have a lung disease such as COPD or pneumonia. Levels may also be lower if you live in an area with higher elevation.
If you are using an at-home oximeter, you should contact your health care provider if your oxygen saturation level is 92 percent or lower. If it falls to 88 percent or lower, seek immediate medical attention.
If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.
Pulse oximetry results may be 2 to 4 percent higher or lower than your actual blood oxygen level. For a more accurate result, your provider may do a blood test called an arterial blood gas.
But this test can be painful. It also cannot be used at home or for continuous monitoring. You may need both types of tests to manage your condition.
http://dodd.ohio.gov/HealthandSafety/Documents/Cat1O2SaturationMonitorHRAOCT2017.pdf [accessed on Dec 18, 2018]
https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/pulse-oximetry.pdf [accessed on Dec 18, 2018]
Pulse Oximetry - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center [accessed on Dec 18, 2018]
He pushed for pulse ox screening. Then his grandson’s pulse ox level was dangerously low. | American Heart Association [accessed on Dec 18, 2018]
Pulse Oximetry & O2 Saturation: What Do You Need to Know? | Inogen [accessed on Dec 18, 2018]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (16)
Pulse, Hand, Health Care Providers
Image by backy3723/Pixabay
Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
Oximetry - Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
Image by User:Sansculotte
Evolution of the Pulse Oximeter
Video by NHLBI/Vimeo
How To: Check Your Pulse
Video by Baylor College of Medicine/YouTube
The Fitness Model Without a Pulse
Video by Great Big Story/YouTube
Vital Signs- For Beginners
Video by Stephanie Rodriguez/YouTube
"Pulse Oximetry" by Traci Wolbrink, MD, MPH for OPENPediatrics
Video by OPENPediatrics/YouTube
Pulse Oximeter | How to Use It? How does Pulse Oximetry Work?
Video by Respiratory Therapy Zone/YouTube
Clinical Skills: Pulse oximetry
Video by Osmosis/YouTube
Pulse Oximetry NEJM
Video by បូ សុធា/YouTube
Oxygen Content and Oxygen Saturation
Video by Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
Measuring oxygenation in poorly perfused patients
Video by Philips Healthcare/YouTube
Pulse Oximetry for Newborns
Video by Lee Health/YouTube
OxyWatch C20 Pulse Oximeter
A finger mounted pulse oximeter with pulse bar taking measurement through the fingernail.
Image by Thinkpaul/Wikimedia
Pulse oximetry spectrum
Hemoglobin absorbance spectrum in pulse oximetry
Image by Paweł Ziemian/Wikimedia
Pulse Ox, Oximetry, Oxygenation
Image by kkirkemtp/Pixabay
Pulse, Hand, Health Care Providers
backy3723/Pixabay
Blood circulation: Red = oxygenated (arteries), Blue = deoxygenated (veins)
User:Sansculotte
6:42
Evolution of the Pulse Oximeter
NHLBI/Vimeo
2:48
How To: Check Your Pulse
Baylor College of Medicine/YouTube
2:24
The Fitness Model Without a Pulse
Great Big Story/YouTube
3:20
Vital Signs- For Beginners
Stephanie Rodriguez/YouTube
16:07
"Pulse Oximetry" by Traci Wolbrink, MD, MPH for OPENPediatrics
OPENPediatrics/YouTube
10:25
Pulse Oximeter | How to Use It? How does Pulse Oximetry Work?
Respiratory Therapy Zone/YouTube
4:12
Clinical Skills: Pulse oximetry
Osmosis/YouTube
16:06
Pulse Oximetry NEJM
បូ សុធា/YouTube
13:30
Oxygen Content and Oxygen Saturation
Medicosis Perfectionalis/YouTube
6:46
Measuring oxygenation in poorly perfused patients
Philips Healthcare/YouTube
1:53
Pulse Oximetry for Newborns
Lee Health/YouTube
OxyWatch C20 Pulse Oximeter
Thinkpaul/Wikimedia
Pulse oximetry spectrum
Paweł Ziemian/Wikimedia
Pulse Ox, Oximetry, Oxygenation
kkirkemtp/Pixabay
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test
Also called: ABG, Arterial Blood Gas Analysis, Blood Gases, Blood Gas Analysis, Blood Oxygen Level
An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acidity in a blood sample to see how well your lungs, heart and kidneys are working. Abnormal results can mean there's a problem with your lungs or kidneys.
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test
Also called: ABG, Arterial Blood Gas Analysis, Blood Gases, Blood Gas Analysis, Blood Oxygen Level
An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and acidity in a blood sample to see how well your lungs, heart and kidneys are working. Abnormal results can mean there's a problem with your lungs or kidneys.
{"label":"SaO2 reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"VL","long":"Very low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":30,"max":80},"text":"Arterial blood oxygen levels below 80 percent may compromise organ function, such as the brain and heart, and should be promptly addressed. Oxygen therapy may be used to assist in raising blood oxygen levels.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":80,"max":90},"text":"Arterial blood oxygen levels below 90 percent is called hypoxemia. A saturation level of 90% is usually considered the point where your oxygen saturation is dangerously low and you should get immediate medical attention. ","conditions":["Asthma","COPD","Interstitial lung disease","Pulmonary hypertension","Bronchiectasis","Emphysema","ARDS","Pneumonia","Obstruction of an artery in the lung","Pulmonary fibrosis","Excess fluid in the lungs"]},{"flag":"borderline","label":{"short":"D","long":"Decreased","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":90,"max":95},"text":"Normal arterial blood oxygen saturation levels in humans are 95-100%. Oxygen saturation can be increased with deep or rapid breathing.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"N","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":95,"max":100},"text":"Your oxygen saturation level is dependent upon a number of factors including your health condition, breathing rate and activity level. Normal arterial blood oxygen saturation levels in humans are 95-100%.","conditions":[]}],"value":97.5,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":1},{"abnormal":0},{"borderline":0},{"normal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
80
90
95
Your result is Normal.
Your oxygen saturation level is dependent upon a number of factors including your health condition, breathing rate and activity level. Normal arterial blood oxygen saturation levels in humans are 95-100%.
Related conditions
{"label":"PaO2 reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Low","long":"Low","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":60,"max":80},"text":"A lower than normal result indicates decreased levels of oxygen in the inhaled air. Changes in environmental pressure may also cause a change in the available oxygen for diffusion into the body. ","conditions":["Anemia","Heart failure","Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease","Restrictive pulmonary disease","Hypoventilation"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":80,"max":100},"text":"Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"High","long":"High","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":100,"max":120},"text":"A higher than normal result indicates increased levels of oxygen in the inhaled air.","conditions":["Polycythemia"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"mm\u00a0Hg","code":"mm[Hg]","name":"millimeter of mercury"}],"value":90,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
mm Hg
80
100
Your result is Normal.
Normal results vary based on the laboratory and the method used.
Related conditions
{"label":"pCO2 reference range","scale":"lin","step":0.1,"hideunits":false,"items":[{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Hypocapnia","long":"Hypocapnia","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":10,"max":35},"text":"A pCO2 value below 35 mm Hg is called hypocapnia, or hypocarbia. When the levels are low, the body naturally tries to produce more CO2 by joining bicarbonate (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions to create more CO2 molecules. However, hydrogen ions determine blood pH; by using up hydrogen ions to create CO2, the pH of the blood increases and becomes basic.","conditions":["Addison disease","CNS tumors","Dyspnea","Heart failure","Hyperventilation","Fatigue","Infections","Intracranial pressure","Ketoacidosis","Kidney disorders","Medications (aspirin, progesterone)","Metabolic acidosis","Pulmonary edema","Pulmonary embolism","Respiratory alkalosis","Shock"]},{"flag":"normal","label":{"short":"Normal","long":"Normal","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":35,"max":45},"text":"A partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) normally is maintained between 35 and 45 mm Hg. Carbon dioxide is a waste product that your body gets rid of when you exhale. It helps regulate your breathing rate and the acid-base balance in your blood.","conditions":[]},{"flag":"abnormal","label":{"short":"Hypercapnia","long":"Hypercapnia","orientation":"horizontal"},"values":{"min":45,"max":100},"text":"A pCO2 value above 45 mm Hg is called hypercapnia, or hypercarbia. This result may indicate that your body has an electrolyte imbalance, or that there is a problem removing carbon dioxide through your lungs.","conditions":["Adrenal glands disorders","Hormonal disorders","Hyperthyroidism","Hypoventilation","Fever","Kidney diseases","Lung diseases","Respiratory acidosis","Respiratory failure"]}],"units":[{"printSymbol":"mm\u00a0Hg","code":"mm[Hg]","name":"millimeter of mercury"}],"value":40,"disclaimer":"Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are \"within normal limits.\""}[{"abnormal":0},{"normal":0},{"abnormal":0}]
Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
mm Hg
35
45
Your result is Normal.
A partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) normally is maintained between 35 and 45 mm Hg. Carbon dioxide is a waste product that your body gets rid of when you exhale. It helps regulate your breathing rate and the acid-base balance in your blood.
Related conditions
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
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pH
7.35
7.45
Your result is Normal.
Your blood has a normal pH range of 7.35 to 7.45. This means that blood is naturally slightly alkaline or basic.
Related conditions
An arterial blood gas (ABG) test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood. It also checks the acidity of your blood. This is called your acid-base balance or your pH level. The blood sample is taken from an artery, which is a blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from your lungs to your body.
In an ABG test, the blood oxygen measurement shows how well your lungs move oxygen from the air into your blood when you breath in. The carbon dioxide measurement shows and how well your lungs remove carbon dioxide from your blood when you breath out.
Carbon dioxide is an acidic waste product that your body makes. If your blood and tissues become even slightly too acidic or too basic (alkaline), it can seriously affect many of your organs and even become life-threatening.
Your lungs and your kidneys do much of the work to keep your acid-base balance normal. So, the acid-base measurement from an ABG test can help diagnose and monitor conditions that affect your lungs and kidneys as well as many other conditions that may upset your acid-base balance.
An ABG test is used to help:
Check your acid-base balance
Diagnose serious problems with your lungs and breathing
Diagnose kidney disorders
Find out whether treatment is working for breathing disorders, kidney disease, or other conditions that may affect your acid-base balance
There are many reasons why you may need this test. For example, you may need an ABG test if you:
Have symptoms of a problem with your acid-base balance, such as:
Uncontrolled rapid or deep breathing, which may be a sign that your lungs are trying to adjust acids or bases by changing the amount of oxygen or carbon dioxide in your blood
Nausea and vomiting
Arrhythmia (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat)
Confusion
Fatigue
Muscle twitching and/or cramps
Are being treated for a lung disease or a condition that affects your breathing, such as:
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Cystic fibrosis
Myasthenia gravis
Have symptoms after you have had:
Carbon monoxide poisoning
An inhalation injury (breathing in smoke, hot air, and/or harmful chemicals)
A recent head or neck injury that could affect your breathing
Are receiving oxygen therapy in the hospital
Most blood tests take a sample from a vein. For this test, a health care provider will take a sample of blood from an artery. That's because blood from an artery has higher oxygen levels than blood from a vein.
The sample is usually taken from an artery on the inside of your wrist, but it may be taken from an artery in your arm or groin. For a newborn, the sample may be taken from the baby's heel or the umbilical cord shortly after birth.
If your blood sample is taken from your wrist, the provider will first test your blood circulation. The provider will hold your wrist and apply pressure to the arteries to cut off blood flow to your hand for several seconds. Then the provider will let go of your wrist to check how quickly blood flow returns to your hand. If your blood flow is normal, the provider will collect a blood sample.
A blood sample taken from an artery tends to be more uncomfortable than most blood tests, which use a vein. So, the provider may apply some numbing medicine to your skin first. The provider will insert a needle with a syringe into the artery to remove some blood.
When the syringe is full, the provider will bandage the puncture site. Pressure will be applied to the site for at least 5 minutes to stop the bleeding.
If you take blood thinners, including aspirin, ask your health care provider whether you should stop taking them before your test. And tell your provider about all other medicines and supplements you take. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to.
If you are on oxygen therapy, your oxygen may be turned off for about 20 minutes before the test. This will be done only if you can breathe without oxygen therapy.
There is very little risk to having a blood oxygen level test. You may have some bleeding, bruising, or soreness at the spot where the needle was put in. Very rarely, the needle may damage a nerve or the artery. You may be told to avoid lifting heavy objects for 24 hours after the test.
ABG test results involve many body systems that affect each other. And there are many health conditions that can cause abnormal results. For these reasons, it's best to have your provider explain what your results mean for your health.
Your ABG test results will list many measurements, including:
Oxygen saturation (O2Sat). This measures how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying.
Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2). This measures the pressure of oxygen that's dissolved in your blood. It helps show how well oxygen moves from your lungs to your bloodstream.
Partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2). This measures the amount of carbon dioxide in your blood. It also shows how easily carbon dioxide can move out of your body.
Acid-base balance (pH level). This measures the acidity of your blood. Too much acid is called acidosis. Too much base (alkaline) is called alkalosis. These conditions are symptoms of other problems that upset the acid-base balance in your body.
An ABG test alone usually can't provide a final diagnosis. So, if your results are not normal, your provider will likely order more tests to make a diagnosis. In general, abnormal results may mean you have a problem with your lungs or kidneys or a metabolic disorder. Metabolic disorders affect how your body uses food for energy. Certain medicines may also upset your acid-base balance and lead to abnormal ABG test results.
Another type of test, called pulse oximetry, can check your blood oxygen saturation levels. A small clip-like device, called a pulse oximeter, is usually attached to your finger. The device tells you the percentage of red blood cells that are full of oxygen. Pulse oximetry may be useful if blood oxygen levels are the only concern. Ask your provider if this test is right for you.
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test [accessed on Dec 26, 2023]
Blood gases: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia [accessed on Sep 02, 2018]
ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) | Lab Tests | GLOWM [accessed on Dec 26, 2023]
Blood Gases - Testing.com. Dec 13, 2021 [accessed on Dec 26, 2023]
Additional Materials (8)
How to take an arterial blood gas (ABG) - OSCE guide
The cardiovascular system is vast network of arteries, veins and vessels that would extend 60,000 miles if stretched end-to-end. All but a tiny fraction of this vessel network is invisible to the naked eye. The smallest capillaries (from latin "hairlike") are so narrow that red blood cells must pass through in single file. Higher than normal blood iron levels have been linked to heart disease and the reason is believed to be the oxidative stress the excess iron places on the walls of the blood vessels. It is the biological counterpart of rust. There are 20-30 trillion red blood cells (RBCs) in an adult's body. The life span of RBCs, which are produced in bone marrow, is about 100 days, which means that 2 million die (and are replaced) each second, but in that short lifetime they can make 75,000 round trips between lungs, heart and tissues in the body.
Image by TheVisualMD
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
3D visualization of an inferior view of a transverse section of the thorax, highlighting the lungs, reconstructed from scanned human data. The trachea, cardiac impression, and transverse sections of the thoracic aorta and esophagus are clearly illustrated. The bronchial tree is also visible. When air is inhaled into the lungs, it flows through large tubes called bronchi, branches into smaller tubes known as bronchioles, and ends up in the thousands of small pouches that are the alveoli. This is where the oxygen is transferred from the air into the bloodstream. Each alveolar sac, or air sac, is surrounded by a bed of capillaries, and the walls between the lung and the capillary are extremely thin. The walls are so delicate, in fact, that the inhaled oxygen can seep from the air sacs to bind to the hemoglobin in the blood, while the carbon dioxide and other waste gasses leave the blood and diffuse into the lungs where they can be exhaled.
Image by TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Trachea and Lung
3D visualization of an anterior oblique view of the trachea and the lungs, reconstructed from scanned human data. The bifurcation of the trachea and the extensive branching of the right and left bronchi are revealed. The respiratory system consists of branching tubes that work to bring oxygen from the air to the organs and tissues of the body, and to expel carbon dioxide wastes from the body to the air. The bronchial tree is a system of airways in which the \"trunk\" is the windpipe and the \"branches\" are the subdividing passages that permeate the lungs. While the rest of the system works as a kind of accordion pump, the structures of the bronchial network split and split again until they are so numerous and so thin at their membranous tips that gas molecules can cross over to the blood through a network of capillaries that, laid end to end, would measure more than 1,000 miles.
Image by TheVisualMD
Capillary in Alveolus
This is a magnified section of capillaries in an aveolus. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the body. The walls of the capillaries are the primary sites for gas and nutrition exchange.
Image by TheVisualMD
Alveolar Type II Cells Secreting Surfactant
The walls of the alveoli, the tiny air sacs within the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place, are lined with three major alveolar cells. These are: Type I (squamous alveolar) cells, Type II (great alveolar) cells, and the third type, magrophages. Type II cells secrete pulmonary surfactant, which lowers the surface tension of water and allows the membrane to separate, thereby increasing the capability to exchange gases and reducing fluid accumulation in the alveolus. Premature infants sometimes have a developmental insufficiency of surfactant production and structural immaturity in the lungs.This results in infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS).
Image by TheVisualMD
3:20
How to take an arterial blood gas (ABG) - OSCE guide
Geeky Medics/YouTube
9:55
Arterial Puncture for Blood Gas Analysis
SECEI ESCS/YouTube
Measurement Chamber
J3D3/Wikimedia
Red Blood Cell in Capillary
TheVisualMD
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Trachea and Lung
TheVisualMD
Capillary in Alveolus
TheVisualMD
Alveolar Type II Cells Secreting Surfactant
TheVisualMD
Chest X-Ray Test
Chest X-Ray Test
Also called: CXR, Chest X Ray, Chest Radiograph, Chest Radiography, Chest Film
A chest X-ray is an imaging test that uses electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the structures in and around the chest. The test can help diagnose and monitor conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity.
Chest X-Ray Test
Also called: CXR, Chest X Ray, Chest Radiograph, Chest Radiography, Chest Film
A chest X-ray is an imaging test that uses electromagnetic waves to create pictures of the structures in and around the chest. The test can help diagnose and monitor conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
X rays are electromagnetic waves. They use ionizing radiation to create pictures of the inside of your body. A chest x ray takes pictures of the inside of your chest. The different tissues in your chest absorb different amounts of radiation. Your ribs and spine are bony and absorb radiation well. They normally appear light on a chest x ray. Your lungs, which are filled with air, normally appear dark.
Related conditions
A chest x ray is a painless, noninvasive test that creates pictures of the structures inside your chest, such as your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. "Noninvasive" means that no surgery is done and no instruments are inserted into your body. This test is done to find the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough (a cough that lasts a long time), and fever.
Chest x rays help doctors diagnose conditions such as pneumonia (nu-MO-ne-ah), heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, and sarcoidosis (sar-koy-DO-sis). Doctors also may use chest x rays to see how well treatments for certain conditions are working. Also, doctors often use chest x rays before surgery to look at the structures in the chest.
Chest x rays are the most common x-ray test used to diagnose health problems.
Doctors may recommend chest x rays for people who have symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough (a cough that lasts a long time), or fever. The test can help find the cause of these symptoms.
Chest x rays look for conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, or sarcoidosis. The test also is used to check how well treatments for certain conditions are working.
Chest x rays also are used to evaluate people who test positive for tuberculosis (tu-ber-kyu-LO-sis) exposure on skin tests.
Sometimes, doctors recommend more chest x rays within hours, days, or months of an earlier chest x ray. This allows them to follow up on a condition.
People who are having certain types of surgery also may need chest x rays. Doctors often use the test before surgery to look at the structures inside the chest.
Depending on your doctor's request, you'll stand, sit, or lie for the chest x ray. The technician will help position you correctly. He or she may cover you with a heavy lead apron to protect certain parts of your body from the radiation.
The x-ray equipment usually consists of two parts. One part, a box-like machine, holds the x-ray film or a special plate that records the picture digitally. You'll sit or stand next to this machine. The second part is the x-ray tube, which is located about 6 feet away.
Before the pictures are taken, the technician will walk behind a wall or into the next room to turn on the x-ray machine. This helps reduce his or her exposure to the radiation.
Usually, two views of the chest are taken. The first is a view from the back. The second is a view from the side.
For a view from the back, you'll sit or stand so that your chest rests against the image plate. The x-ray tube will be behind you. For the side view, you'll turn to your side and raise your arms above your head.
If you need to lie down for the test, you'll lie on a table that contains the x-ray film or plate. The x-ray tube will be over the table.
You'll need to hold very still while the pictures are taken. The technician may ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds. These steps help prevent a blurry picture.
Although the test is painless, you may feel some discomfort from the coolness of the exam room and the x-ray plate. If you have arthritis or injuries to the chest wall, shoulders, or arms, you may feel discomfort holding a position during the test. The technician may be able to help you find a more comfortable position.
When the test is done, you'll need to wait while the technician checks the quality of the x-ray pictures. He or she needs to make sure that the pictures are good enough for the doctor to use.
You don't have to do anything special to prepare for a chest x ray. However, you may want to wear a shirt that's easy to take off. Before the test, you'll be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a gown.
You also may want to avoid wearing jewelry and other metal objects. You'll be asked to take off any jewelry, eyeglasses, and metal objects that might interfere with the x-ray picture. Let the x-ray technician (a person specially trained to do x-ray tests) know if you have any body piercings on your chest.
Let your doctor know if you're pregnant or may be pregnant. In general, women should avoid all x-ray tests during pregnancy. Sometimes, though, having an x ray is important to the health of the mother and fetus. If an x ray is needed, the technician will take extra steps to protect the fetus from radiation.
Chest x rays have few risks. The amount of radiation used in a chest x ray is very small. A lead apron may be used to protect certain parts of your body from the radiation.
The test gives out a radiation dose similar to the amount of radiation you're naturally exposed to over 10 days.
Chest x rays show the structures in and around the chest. The test is used to look for and track conditions of the heart, lungs, bones, and chest cavity. For example, chest x-ray pictures may show signs of pneumonia, heart failure, lung cancer, lung tissue scarring, or sarcoidosis.
Chest x rays do have limits. They only show conditions that change the size of tissues in the chest or how the tissues absorb radiation. Also, chest x rays create two-dimensional pictures. This means that denser structures, like bone or the heart, may hide some signs of disease. Very small areas of cancer and blood clots in the lungs usually don't show up on chest x rays.
For these reasons, your doctor may recommend other tests to confirm a diagnosis.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/chest-x-ray [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003804.htm [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/chestrad [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/chest_x-ray/article_em.htm [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
Normal reference ranges can vary depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing. You must use the range supplied by the laboratory that performed your test to evaluate whether your results are "within normal limits."
Additional Materials (50)
Chest X-Ray Basics in 5 min
Video by Nick Smith/YouTube
How X-rays see through your skin - Ge Wang
Video by TED-Ed/YouTube
What causes Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and who is at Risk?
Chest X-ray of transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI syndrome) compared to chest X-ray of the same subject afterwards.
Image by Altaf Gauhar Haji, Shekhar Sharma, DK Vijaykumar and Jerry Paul
Tuberculosis X-ray
An anteroposterior X-ray of a patient diagnosed with advanced bilateral pulmonary tuberculosis. This AP X-ray of the chest reveals the presence of bilateral pulmonary infiltrate (white triangles), and caving forma.
Image by CDC / Der Lange
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
This highly-magnified, 1981 transmission electron microscopic (TEM) image, reveals some of the morphologic traits exhibited by a human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The virion is variable in shape, and size, with an average diameter between 120-300nm. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among infants and children, under 1-year of age.
Image by CDC/ E. L. Palmer
Q Fever Pneumonia X-ray
Combination of two x-rays (A) normal chest x-ray (B) x-ray documenting Q fever pneumonia.
Image by US Gov
Chest X Ray
A Lateral Chest X-Ray with the heart shadow outlined.
Image by US Army
Projectional radiography
Image relating focal spot size to geometric unsharpness in projectional radiography.
Image by Source images by Blausen Medical and LadyofHats (Mariana Ruiz Villarreal) Derivative by Mikael Haggstrom
Chest Radiograph
Chest X-Ray : Specialized test, like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
X-ray of Healthy Lung
This image shows an x-ray of healthy lungs.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cancer screening
Cancer Imaging: X-Rays : Chest X-rays can be used to show the presence of tumors, as for lung cancer, but they may also indicate problems associated with cancer. An X-ray may produce images suggestive of fluid accumulation, masses, or enlarged lymph nodes.
Image by TheVisualMD
Lung Cancer
Chest X-ray (Cancer): This is an x-ray image of a chest. Both sides of the lungs are visible with a growth on the left side of the lung, which could possibly be lung cancer.
Image by National Cancer Institute
Chest X Ray
Mediastinal structures on a chest radiograph.
Image by Mikael Haggstrom, from source images by ZooFari, Stillwaterising and Gray's Anatomy creators
CT Chest Scan of Pleura effusion
CT scan of chest showing loculated pleural effusion in left side. Some thickening of pleura is also noted. From my personal collection. Permission obtained from patient.
Image by Drriad
Chest X-ray (Cancer)
This is an x-ray image of a chest. Both sides of the lungs are visible with a growth on the left side of the lung, which could possibly be lung cancer.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Unknown Photographer
This browser does not support the video element.
CT Scans (VIDEO)
This video shows how modern science of scanning can expose the health condition of the patient. The video starts with a patient undergoing CT scanning, an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. Visible are the heart, lungs, and arteries of a patient.
Video by TheVisualMD
Chest X-Ray
Air-filled trachea and lungs Diaphragmatic domes Mediastinal structures Vascular markings
Arrows indicate costophrenic angles
Image by US Army
Gallstones
Gallstones as seen on plain x-ray.
Image by James Heilman, MD
Hemoptysis x-ray
Hemoptysis can be discovered with the help of radiology.
Image by Aidan Jones from Oxford, U.K.
X-ray of Lung with Pulmonary Edema
Within the lungs, the main airways (bronchi) branch off into smaller passageways, the smallest of which are called bronchioles. At the end of the bronchioles are tiny air sacs (alveoli). Pulmonary edema is a condition caused when excess fluid collects in these air sacs, making it difficult to breathe. Fluid in the lungs can be caused by pneumonia, acute respiratory distress and other conditions, but in most cases, the cause of pulmonary edema is heart problems (when a damaged heart can't pump enough blood and fluid leaks into the lungs).
Image by TheVisualMD
What To Expect During and After Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Surgery
A normal chest X-ray after placement of an ICD, showing the ICD generator in the upper left chest and the ICD lead in the right ventricle of the heart. Note the 2 opaque coils along the ICD lead.
Image by Gregory Marcus, MD, MAS, FACC
This browser does not support the video element.
Chest X-ray: NCI B-roll [video]
NCI B-roll of a patient receiving a Chest X-ray. This video is silent.
Video by National Cancer Institute (NCI)
X-Ray of Aneurysm within Chest frontal view
Most aneurysms are detected in the course of an exam, such as a physical exam or a chest X-ray, being performed for a different reason.
Image by TheVisualMD
Pleural Effusion: Tests
Pleural effusion Chest x-ray of a pleural effusion. The arrow A shows fluid layering in the right pleural cavity. The B arrow shows the normal width of the lung in the cavity. A pleural effusion: as seen on chest X-ray. The A arrow indicates fluid layering in the right chest. The B arrow indicates the width of the right lung. The volume of the lung is reduced because of the collection of fluid around the lung.Pleural effusion Chest x-ray of a pleural effusion. The arrow A shows fluid layering in the right pleural cavity. The B arrow shows the normal width of the lung in the cavity. A pleural effusion: as seen on chest X-ray. The A arrow indicates fluid layering in the right chest. The B arrow indicates the width of the right lung. The volume of the lung is reduced because of the collection of fluid around the lung.
Image by CDC InvictaHOG
Coccidioidomycosis
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed pulmonary changes indicative of pulmonary fibrosis in a case of coccidioidomycosis, caused by fungal organisms of the genus, Coccidioides. Because these changes also resemble those seen in other lung infections including tuberculosis, the findings uncovered with a chest x-ray needs to be coupled with serologic testing, as well as possible tissue biopsy. The degree of fibrotic changes, indicative of scarring found on x-ray, can be directly correlated to the severity of the fungal infection.
Image by CDC/ Dr. Lucille K. Georg
How Is Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) Diagnosed?
Chest X-Ray: Acute respiratory distress syndrome on plain Xray
Image by James Heilman, MD
How Are Asbestos-Related Lung Diseases Diagnosed?
Early Asbestosis in a Retired Pipe Fitter : Chest X-ray in asbestosis shows plaques above diaphragm
Image by Clinical Cases
Aspergillosis
This was a photomicrograph of a lung tissue specimen, harvested from a caged, sulfur-crested cockatoo, that depicted some of the histopathologic changes that had been caused by the fungal organism, Aspergillus fumigatus, in a case of avian pulmonary aspergillosis. Here, you are able see how the periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stain, revealed A. fumigatus ultrastructural morphology including conidial heads and mycelium.
Image by CDC/ Dr. William Kaplan
Pleural Effusion - Defined
A large left sided pleural effusion as seen on an upright chest X-ray
Image by Drriad
Pleural Effusion: Tests
A large left sided pleural effusion as seen on an upright chest X-ray
Image by James Heilman MD
Breast implants
Chest X-ray showing breast implants
Image by James Heilman
Living With Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
No cure is available for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) yet. Your symptoms may get worse over time. As your symptoms worsen, you may not be able to do many of the things that you did before you had IPF.
However, lifestyle changes and ongoing care can help you manage the disease.
If you're still smoking, the most important thing you can do is quit. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke. Ask family members and friends not to smoke in front of you or in your home, car, or workplace.
Image by Drriad
Symptoms and Spread of SARS (Severe acute respiratory syndrome)
A chest x-ray showing increased opacity in both lungs, indicative of pneumonia, in a patient with SARS.
Image by CDC
Chilaiditi syndrome
Chest X-ray showing obvious Chilaiditi's sign, or presence of gas in the right colic angle between the liver and right hemidiaphragm (left side of the image).
Piper's Sign: In days gone by the lateral chest x-ray (demonstrating greater opacity in the aortic arch and descending aorta than the thoracic spine) gave an indication to the degree of calcified plaque burden a patient had. This has been known as Piper's sign and can often be seen in elderly persons particularly those with concomitant osteoporosis.
Image by U4077905
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Image by Stockholm
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Image by Lange123 at German Wikipedia
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenza
Chest X-ray of a 76 year old woman, who developed cough and labored breathing. First testing showed influenza B virus, and later a nasopharyngeal swab detected Haemophilus influenzae. The H influenzae presumably developed as an opportunistic infection secondary to the flu. This X-ray was taken 2 weeks after cultures and start of antibiotics, showing delayed pneumonic infiltrates that were only vaguely visible on initial (not shown) X-rays.
Image by Mikael Häggström
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenzae, lateral
Chest X-ray of a 76 year old woman, who developed cough and labored breathing. First testing showed influenza B virus, and later a nasopharyngeal swab detected Haemophilus influenzae. The H influenzae presumably developed as an opportunistic infection secondary to the flu. This X-ray was taken 2 weeks after cultures and start of antibiotics, showing delayed pneumonic infiltrates that were only vaguely visible on initial (not shown) X-rays.
Image by Mikael Häggström
Fungal Parasites and Pathogens
(a) Ringworm presents as a red ring on skin; (b) Trichophyton violaceum, shown in this bright field light micrograph, causes superficial mycoses on the scalp; (c) Histoplasma capsulatum is an ascomycete that infects airways and causes symptoms similar to influenza. (credit a: modification of work by Dr. Lucille K. Georg, CDC; credit b: modification of work by Dr. Lucille K. Georg, CDC; credit c: modification of work by M. Renz, CDC; scale-bar data from Matt Russell)
Image by CNX Openstax
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed radiologic evidence of pulmonary pneumocystosis in the form of bilateral pulmonary interstitial infiltrates. This infection was due to the presence of an opportunistic fungal infection by the fungal organism Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii. (This image was provided by Jonathan W.M. Gold. M.D., Assoc. Dir. Special Microbiology Lab, Assist. Attending Physician, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Assist. Prof. of Medicine, Cornell Univ. Med. College, New York.)
Pneumocystis jirovecii is the causative agent of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), one of the most frequent and severe opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Pneumocystis organisms represent a large group of species of atypical fungi with universal distribution and pulmonary tropism, and each species has a strong specificity for a given mammalian host species.
Image by CDC/ Jonathan W.M. Gold, MD
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Image by Stillwaterising
Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child
PA view Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child. Released per permission of mother.
Image by Samir (talk)
Chest X Ray
Structures shown: Air-filled trachea and lungs Diaphragmatic domes Mediastinal structures Vascular markings. Arrows indicate costophrenic angles
Image by US Army
Thoracic diaphragm
X-ray of chest, showing top of diaphragm.
Image by OpenStax College
Chest X Ray
Roentgenogram or Medical X-ray image. May not be to scale.
Aspect of a bulky thymoma (red circle) on the chest x-ray.
Stockholm
Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome-Chest X-ray showing a tumor in the left lung (right side of the image)
Lange123 at German Wikipedia
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenza
Mikael Häggström
Chest X-ray in influenza and Haemophilus influenzae, lateral
Mikael Häggström
Fungal Parasites and Pathogens
CNX Openstax
This anteroposterior (AP) chest x-ray revealed radiologic evidence of pulmonary pneumocystosis in the form of bilateral pulmonary interstitial infiltrates. This infection was due to the presence of an opportunistic fungal infection by the fungal organism Pneumocystis jirovecii, formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii. (This image was provided by Jonathan W.M. Gold. M.D., Assoc. Dir. Special Microbiology Lab, Assist. Attending Physician, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and Assist. Prof. of Medicine, Cornell Univ. Med. College, New York.)
CDC/ Jonathan W.M. Gold, MD
Chest X-ray PA inverted and enhanced
Stillwaterising
Chest X-Ray of Canadian dollar coin in esophagus of child
A chest computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that takes detailed pictures of the lungs and the inside of the chest. Computers combine the pictures to create a 3-D model showing the size, shape, and position of the lungs and structures in the chest.
A chest computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging test that takes detailed pictures of the lungs and the inside of the chest. Computers combine the pictures to create a 3-D model showing the size, shape, and position of the lungs and structures in the chest.
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Use the slider below to see how your results affect your
health.
Your result is Normal.
A chest CT scan provides detailed pictures of the size, shape, and position of your lungs and other structures in your chest. A normal chest CT means your chest appears normal.
Related conditions
A chest CT scan is a more detailed type of chest X-ray. This painless imaging test takes many detailed pictures, called slices, of your lungs and the inside of your chest. Computers can combine these pictures to create three-dimensional (3D) models to help show the size, shape, and position of your lungs and structures in your chest.
This imaging test is often done to follow up on abnormal findings from earlier chest x rays. A chest CT scan also can help determine the cause of lung symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, or check to see if you have certain lung problems such as a tumor, excess fluid around the lungs that is known as pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, emphysema, tuberculosis, and pneumonia.
A chest CT scan provides detailed pictures of the size, shape, and position of your lungs and other structures in your chest. Doctors use this test to:
Follow up on abnormal results from standard chest x rays.
Find the cause of lung symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain.
Find out whether you have a lung problem, such as a tumor, excess fluid around the lungs, or a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). The test also is used to check for other conditions, such as tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia.
Your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan if you have symptoms of lung problems, such as chest pain or trouble breathing. The scan can help find the cause of the symptoms.
A chest CT scan looks for problems such as tumors, excess fluid around the lungs, and pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). The scan also checks for other conditions, such as tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia.
Your doctor may recommend a chest CT scan if a standard chest x ray doesn't help diagnose the problem. The chest CT scan can:
Provide more detailed pictures of your lungs and other chest structures than a standard chest x ray
Find the exact location of a tumor or other problem
Show something that isn't visible on a chest x ray
Your chest CT scan may be done in a medical imaging facility or hospital. The CT scanner is a large, tunnel-like machine that has a table. You will lie still on the table and the table will slide into the scanner. Talk to your doctor if you are uncomfortable in tight or closed spaces to see if you need medicine to relax you during the test. You will hear soft buzzing or clicking sounds when you are inside the scanner and the scanner is taking pictures. You will be able to hear from and talk to the technician performing the test while you are inside the scanner. For some diagnoses, a contrast dye, often iodine-based, may be injected into a vein in your arm before the imaging test. This contrast dye highlights areas inside your chest and creates clearer pictures. You may feel some discomfort from the needle or, after the contrast dye is injected, you may feel warm briefly or have a temporary metallic taste in your mouth.
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing for the test. Sometimes the CT scan technician (a person specially trained to do CT scans) may ask you to wear a hospital gown. You also may want to avoid wearing jewelry and other metal objects. You'll be asked to take off any jewelry, eyeglasses, and metal objects that might interfere with the test. You may be asked to remove hearing aids and dentures as well. Let the technician know if you have any body piercing on your chest.
Tell your doctor whether you're pregnant or may be pregnant. If possible, you should avoid unnecessary radiation exposure during pregnancy. This is because of the concern that radiation may harm the fetus.
Chest CT scans have some risks. In rare instances, some people have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. There is a slight risk of cancer, particularly in growing children, because the test uses radiation. Although the amount of radiation from one test is usually less than the amount of radiation you are naturally exposed to over three years, patients should not receive more CT scans than the number that clinical guidelines recommend. Another risk is that chest CT scans may detect an incidental finding, which is something that doesn’t cause symptoms but now may require more tests after being found.
Talk to your doctor and the technicians performing the test about whether you are or could be pregnant. If the test is not urgent, they may have you wait to do the test until after your pregnancy. If it is urgent, the technicians will take extra steps to protect your baby during this test. Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding because contrast dye can pass into your breast milk. If you must have contrast dye injected, you may want to pump and save enough breast milk for one to two days after your test or you may bottle-feed your baby for that time.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/chest-ct-scan [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003788.htm [accessed on Aug 25, 2021]
Additional Materials (50)
Pleural empyema
CT chest showing large right sided hydro-pneumothorax from pleural empyema. Arrows A: air, B: fluid
Image by Amit Banga, GC Khilnani, SK Sharma1, AB Dey, Naveet Wig and Namrata Banga
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Diagnosed?
CT with the identification of underlying lung lesion: an apical bulla.
Image by Robertolyra
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Treated?
Right-sided pneumothorax (right side of image) on CT scan of the chest with chest tube in place.
Image by en:User:Clinical Cases
Chest Radiograph
Chest X-Ray : Specialized test, like a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, may be needed to confirm the presence of an aneurysm.
Image by TheVisualMD
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
3D reconstruction of the thin multislice CT, covering human heart and lungs
Image by Semnic
Incision for Open-Chest Bypass Surgery
Open-chest bypass surgery requires the surgeon to make an incision down the center of the chest, along the breastbone. The rib cage is spread open to expose the heart.
Image by TheVisualMD
A child's guide to hospital: CT Chest
Video by The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne/YouTube
What is it like to have a CT scan? | Cancer Research UK
Video by Cancer Research UK/YouTube
Coronary CT angiography of coronary arteries
Researchers have found that anti-inflammatory biologic therapies used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis can significantly reduce coronary inflammation in patients with the chronic skin condition. Scientists said the findings are particularly notable because of the use of a novel imaging biomarker, the perivascular fat attenuation index (FAI), that was able to measure the effect of the therapy in reducing the inflammation.
The study published online in JAMA Cardiology, has implications not just for people with psoriasis, but for those with other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions are known to increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes. The study was funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health.
In this image: Coronary CT angiography image of the coronary arteries depicting the perivascular fat attenuation index before and after biologic therapy at one-year follow-up for patients with excellent response to biologic therapy.
Image by Oxford Academic Cardiovascular CT Core Lab and Lab of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases at NHLBI
Coronary CT
Coronary CT
Image by Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
CT of the blood vessels and heart
CT of the blood vessels and heart
Image by Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
Chest CT showing pulmonary sequestration
chest CT: diagnosis is pulmonary sequestration
Image by RadsWiki
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Image by Matthew Cham, MD
/Wikimedia
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Video by Oxford AHSN/YouTube
What to Expect from a CT Exam with Contrast
Video by RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
Protocoling chest CTs
Video by Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
Low Dose CT Scans to Look for Lung Cancer
Video by Lee Health/YouTube
Lung Cancer Screening (LCS)
Video by Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
CT Scan of the Chest Explained Clearly - High Resolution CT Scan (HRCT)
Video by MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube
What to Expect: CT Scan | Cedars-Sinai
Video by Cedars-Sinai/YouTube
How I Read a Chest CT
Video by Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
Introduction to Computed Tomographic imaging of the Chest
Video by Yale Radiology and Biomedical Imaging/YouTube
Lung Cancer Screening: The Life-saving CT Scan
Video by RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
How to prepare for a CT scan
Video by Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube
Using CT Scans to Screen for Lung Cancer
Video by UConn Health/YouTube
Cardiac CT scan
Video by UHP_NHS/YouTube
Real look at Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis CT Scan from Start to Finish.
Video by Dumb Old Dad/YouTube
What is it like to get a CT Scan with Contrast?
Video by STRIDE Project/YouTube
Thorax with Healthy Heart
3D visualization based on scanned human data of a healthy heart in the thorax.
Image by TheVisualMD
Heart and Lungs
The heart and lungs are the primary contents of the thorax. They are interconnected with very large blood vessels. The heart sends oxygen-poor blood through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs, which oxygenate it and return it to the heart through the pulmonary veins. The pulmonary arteries arise from one large pulmonary trunk, and then begin branching exponentially once they enter the lungs in order to reach the functional respiratory units and pick up oxygen. The smallest pulmonary veins then take the oxygenated blood backwards through the lungs and empty into the back of the heart through four larger pulmonary veins. The oxygen-rich blood is then pumped by the heart out into the body through the aorta. Deoxygenated blood from body tissues returns to the heart through the superior and inferior vena cava and the cardiac cycle repeats continuously. The pulmonary veins and arteries are the only case where arteries carry deoxygenated blood and veins carry blood that has been oxygenated.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
3D visualization of an anterior view of the muscles involved in respiration. The primary job of the thorax is to promote movements necessary for breathing. Three muscles of the thorax assist in this function; the external intercostals, internal intercostals and diaphragm. The intercostals do the job of lifting the ribs up and pulling them outward, which in turn enlarges the lungs. As the lungs expand, the pressure inside them is reduced, and they suck in air. During extreme inhalation, the neck muscles also contract. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and pushes downward; during exhalation, it relaxes and is pushed up into a dome shape by the lower digestive organs, compressing the lungs. As pressure rises in the chest cavity, exhale occurs, pressure is equalized and the cycle restarts.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
3D visualization of an inferior view of the muscles involved in respiration. The primary job of the thorax is to promote movements necessary for breathing. Three muscles of the thorax assist in this function; the external intercostals, internal intercostals and diaphragm. The intercostals do the job of lifting the ribs up and pulling them outward, which in turn enlarges the lungs. As the lungs expand, the pressure inside them is reduced, and they suck in air. During extreme inhalation, the neck muscles also contract. During inhalation, the diaphragm contracts and pushes downward; during exhalation, it relaxes and is pushed up into a dome shape by the lower digestive organs, compressing the lungs. As pressure rises in the chest cavity, exhalation occurs, pressure is equalized and the cycle restarts.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with visible Lung and Heart
3D visualization of a posterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Female Thorax Showing Breast
Visualization based on scanned human data of an anterior view of female breast.
Image by TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Heart
Visualization of male heart. The nerve supply of the heart is emphasized specifically the cardiac plexus. The plexus which rest around the base of the heart, mainly in the epicardium, is formed by cardiac branches from the vagus nerves and the sympathetic trunks and ganglia.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thorax with Heart and Lung
3D visualization of an anterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. The cone-shaped lungs occupy most of the thoracic cavity. Each lung is suspended in its own pleural cavity and connected to the mediastinum (which houses the heart) by its root which is made up of vascular and bronchial attachments. The anterior, lateral and posterior surfaces of the lung are in close contact with the ribs and form a continuously curving surface called the costal surface. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
Image by TheVisualMD
Male Thorax Showing Trachea and Lung
3D visualization of an anterior view of the lungs and heart reconstructed from scanned human data. De-oxygenated red blood cells are sent by the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery into the vessels of the lungs to be refilled with oxygen for their next circuit through the body. The blood is carried through the lung tissues, where it exchanges its carbon dioxide for oxygen in the alveoli. It is then returned through the pulmonary veins to the left side of the heart and sent out to the rest of the body. The pulmonary artery carries away the deoxygenated blood, which returns fully oxygenated through the pulmonary vein.
Image by TheVisualMD
Thoracic Aneurysm in the Aorta
Aneurysms that occur in the part of the aorta that is higher in the chest are called thoracic aortic aneurysms. Aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and usually without any symptoms therefore making them difficult to detect
Image by TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
subFusion processing applied to a SPECT lung ventilation-perfusion scan.
Image by KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
3D visualization of an inferior view of a transverse section of the thorax, highlighting the lungs, reconstructed from scanned human data. The trachea, cardiac impression, and transverse sections of the thoracic aorta and esophagus are clearly illustrated. The bronchial tree is also visible. When air is inhaled into the lungs, it flows through large tubes called bronchi, branches into smaller tubes known as bronchioles, and ends up in the thousands of small pouches that are the alveoli. This is where the oxygen is transferred from the air into the bloodstream. Each alveolar sac, or air sac, is surrounded by a bed of capillaries, and the walls between the lung and the capillary are extremely thin. The walls are so delicate, in fact, that the inhaled oxygen can seep from the air sacs to bind to the hemoglobin in the blood, while the carbon dioxide and other waste gasses leave the blood and diffuse into the lungs where they can be exhaled.
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
Angina
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
Chest Pain
Image by TheVisualMD
Chest Pain or Tightness
Image by TheVisualMD
CT scanner
A view of the CT scanner in the new Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. The hospital, still under construction, is a 2005 Base Realignment and Closure project, and is scheduled to open later this year.
Image by Official Navy Page from United States of America MC2 Todd Frantom/U.S. Marine Corps
Illustration of 3 X-ray images and a patient entering a CT scanner
Radiation can be dangerous, but it can also save lives. When you’re faced with a medical test that uses radiation, don’t let fear get in your way. Learn about the risks and benefits, and know what questions to ask.
Image by NIH News in Health
Drawing of a computerized tomography scanner with a health care professional looking on a computer screen as a patient lies inside the scanner
CT scan.
Image by NIDDK Image Library
Advanced CT Scanning
An NIH Clinical Center study participant receives a scan in the Photon-Counting CT scanner.
Image by NIH Clinical Center
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
CAT Scan
A computer-assisted tomographic (CAT) scanner, with a Caucasian female technician working at a screen and behind a glass wall. A patient is on a table and being tested by the CAT scanner. The lighting is very subdued. This new technology revolutionized detection of brain tumors.
Image by National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Virtual Colonoscopy Slice of CT Data
Virtual colonoscopy is a new imaging technology that uses computed tomography (CT) images to look for polyps and cancer in the colon. A computed tomography scanner takes cross-sectional images of the patient's colon, after the colon has been inflated with gas. A three-dimensional model is created from the CT slices and evaluated by a radiologist for abnormalities.
Image by TheVisualMD
Pleural empyema
Amit Banga, GC Khilnani, SK Sharma1, AB Dey, Naveet Wig and Namrata Banga
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Diagnosed?
Robertolyra
How Are Pleurisy and Other Pleural Disorders Treated?
en:User:Clinical Cases
Chest Radiograph
TheVisualMD
What To Expect During a Coronary Calcium Scan
Semnic
Incision for Open-Chest Bypass Surgery
TheVisualMD
4:22
A child's guide to hospital: CT Chest
The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne/YouTube
1:50
What is it like to have a CT scan? | Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK/YouTube
Coronary CT angiography of coronary arteries
Oxford Academic Cardiovascular CT Core Lab and Lab of Inflammation and Cardiometabolic Diseases at NHLBI
Coronary CT
Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
CT of the blood vessels and heart
Bác sĩ Nguyễn Minh Đức
Chest CT showing pulmonary sequestration
RadsWiki
Scimitar syndrome chest CT
Matthew Cham, MD
/Wikimedia
4:59
Having a Cardiac CT Scan in Hospital
Oxford AHSN/YouTube
2:33
What to Expect from a CT Exam with Contrast
RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
7:48
Protocoling chest CTs
Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
1:44
Low Dose CT Scans to Look for Lung Cancer
Lee Health/YouTube
8:27
Lung Cancer Screening (LCS)
Cleveland Clinic/YouTube
5:10
CT Scan of the Chest Explained Clearly - High Resolution CT Scan (HRCT)
MedCram - Medical Lectures Explained CLEARLY/YouTube
3:29
What to Expect: CT Scan | Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai/YouTube
17:21
How I Read a Chest CT
Thoracic Radiology/YouTube
8:46
Introduction to Computed Tomographic imaging of the Chest
Yale Radiology and Biomedical Imaging/YouTube
3:09
Lung Cancer Screening: The Life-saving CT Scan
RAYUS Radiology™/YouTube
2:19
How to prepare for a CT scan
Sunnybrook Hospital/YouTube
2:07
Using CT Scans to Screen for Lung Cancer
UConn Health/YouTube
5:04
Cardiac CT scan
UHP_NHS/YouTube
6:28
Real look at Chest, Abdomen and Pelvis CT Scan from Start to Finish.
Dumb Old Dad/YouTube
2:52
What is it like to get a CT Scan with Contrast?
STRIDE Project/YouTube
Thorax with Healthy Heart
TheVisualMD
Heart and Lungs
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Muscle Involved in Respiration
TheVisualMD
Thorax with visible Lung and Heart
TheVisualMD
Female Thorax Showing Breast
TheVisualMD
Male Thorax with Visible Heart
TheVisualMD
Thorax with Heart and Lung
TheVisualMD
Cross Section of Human Thorax. Liver in bottom Left
TheVisualMD
Male Thorax Showing Trachea and Lung
TheVisualMD
Thoracic Aneurysm in the Aorta
TheVisualMD
Ventilation/perfusion scan
KieranMaher at English Wikibooks
Bronchi and Bronchiole of Lung
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain
TheVisualMD
Chest Pain or Tightness
TheVisualMD
CT scanner
Official Navy Page from United States of America MC2 Todd Frantom/U.S. Marine Corps
Illustration of 3 X-ray images and a patient entering a CT scanner
NIH News in Health
Drawing of a computerized tomography scanner with a health care professional looking on a computer screen as a patient lies inside the scanner
NIDDK Image Library
Advanced CT Scanning
NIH Clinical Center
Sensitive content
This media may include sensitive content
CAT Scan
National Cancer Institute / Linda Bartlett (Photographer)
Virtual Colonoscopy Slice of CT Data
TheVisualMD
Treatment
Ibuprofen tablets in palm of hand
Image by Derrick Coetzee
Ibuprofen tablets in palm of hand
Image by Derrick Coetzee
How Is Bronchitis Treated?
Acute bronchitis
Acute bronchitis often goes away on its own without treatment. However, you can take steps at home to feel better.
Use over-the-counter (OTC) medicines containing dextromethorphan or guaifenesin to possibly relieve cough symptoms or to loosen mucus.
Drink hot tea or water with honey.
Suck on throat lozenges.
Keep a humidifier nearby.
Use inhaled medicines such as albuterol, if prescribed. They may relieve symptoms.
Healthcare providers typically prescribe antibiotics only if they find that you have a bacterial infection, which is more common in young children. If you are taking any prescribed medicines or have other diseases, talk to your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter medicines.
Chronic bronchitis
The goal of the treatment for chronic bronchitis is to help you breathe better and control your symptoms. Your healthcare provider may talk to you about:
Quitting smoking
Taking medicines to help clear your airways or prevent symptoms from getting worse
Oxygen therapy to help you breathe better
Pulmonary rehabilitation to learn breathing techniques such as pursed-lip breathing and to help you prevent symptoms from getting worse
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (3)
Pain Relievers - Tylenol PM (the white-and-blue tablets) also contains diphenhydramine, a sleep aid.
Tylenol PM, pain relievers with the active ingredient acetaminophen/paracetamol. Tylenol PM (the white-and-blue tablets) also contains diphenhydramine, a sleep aid.
Image by Ragesoss
Pain Relievers/Fever Reducers
Giving a child just a little more acetaminophen than directed can cause serious side effects. Learn how to give this drug safely.
Image by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Medicines you should have on hand this cold and flu season
Video by TODAY/YouTube
Pain Relievers - Tylenol PM (the white-and-blue tablets) also contains diphenhydramine, a sleep aid.
Ragesoss
Pain Relievers/Fever Reducers
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration
4:44
Medicines you should have on hand this cold and flu season
TODAY/YouTube
Prevention
Stop Smoking and drinking
Image by TheVisualMD
Stop Smoking and drinking
Stop Smoking and drinking
Image by TheVisualMD
How Can Bronchitis Be Prevented?
Taking steps such as the following may prevent bronchitis or lower your chances of getting it again.
Quit smoking if you smoke.
Avoid fumes, air pollution, or secondhand smoke (cigarette smoke from someone else).
Get the flu shot every year.
Get thepneumonia vaccinewhen appropriate, based on your age or risk factors.
Get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shots at the recommended times.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Additional Materials (13)
Smoking cessation
Never smoke. But if you do, we'll show you how to stop : Once quitters can savor the feeling of freedom from both cigarettes and cravings, they report quality of life improvements they hadn`t expected. They can taste their food, and it tastes good! Their clothes, homes, cars and belongings don`t smell of smoke. They breathe deeply.
Image by TheVisualMD
How Can Bronchitis Be Prevented?
Image by BruceBlaus
Bronchitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments - Dr. My-Huyen Tran
Video by UT Health Science Center at Tyler/YouTube
Stop Smoking before, during, after your Pregnancy
Stop Smoking before during, after your Pregnancy
Image by TheVisualMD / Alexas _ Fotos
Quitting Smoking
Smoking is bad for anyone, of course, but it`s especially bad for people with prediabetes or diabetes. Scientists have known for many years that smokers with diabetes have higher blood sugar levels than nonsmokers with diabetes, but they haven`t understood why. Now, researchers at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, California, have discovered a “smoking gun” that helps to explain why smoking is especially bad for people with diabetes. They found strong evidence that it`s the nicotine in tobacco that`s the main culprit in making symptoms of diabetes and the risk of developing complications far worse for smokers. Their study showed that nicotine causes blood A1C levels to rise by as much as 34%. And the higher the nicotine levels, the more A1C is produced. Smoking also constricts blood vessels and raises the level of inflammation throughout the body. Smoking is linked with insulin resistance. In fact, cigarette smokers are almost three times as likely to develop diabetes as people who have never smoked.For people who already have diabetes, smoking causes macrovascular complications (like heart attack and stroke) and microvascular complications (such as kidney disease, retinal disease, and foot problems) to occur sooner. Smoking increases risk of death for people with diabetes. Studies show that smoking shortens lives an average of 5-10 years, but there`s evidence that it shortens lifespan even more for people with diabetes. Quitting Smoking • Write down your reasons for quitting. Smoke cessation counselors find this a crucial step in successfully quitting. You must be clear on your goals and reasons for quitting. Writing them down in your own words personalizes and reinforces your objective. • Tell your doctor, friends and family that you want to quit. You will need their support and participation. Ask friends and family not to smoke or keep cigarettes near you. Let them know you may go through some emotional phases that won`t be easy for any of you on the way to a smoke-free life. • Make your home smoke-free. Insist that no one ever smoke inside, for the health of everyone who lives there. Quitters who live in smoke-free homes have fewer episodes of backsliding. It`s important, though, when quitting smoking, to take steps to avoid putting on weight, as weight gain creates health problems as well, especially for people who have diabetes.
Image by TheVisualMD
Stopping Smoking Countdown to Better Health
Over time, your health improves on multiple fronts after you quit smoking. At first, you`ll notice that it`s easier to breathe, smell, and taste. As you remain smoke-free, important recovery takes place in the lining of your respiratory organs, heart, and blood vessels. Circulation improves, coughing subsides, and your risk of major smoking-related illness drops.
Image by TheVisualMD
Cartoon of a “No-Smoking” sign in an open outdoor area, with nearby people enjoying a picnic lunch
Researchers have found effective ways to help people quit smoking—or prevent them from starting in the first place. The tricky part is putting these tools to use.
Image by NIH News in Health
Dangers of Smoking and Pregnancy
Dangers of Smoking and Pregnancy - Including weed! Week 19 Fetal Development
Image by TheVisualMD
Smoking, Cigarette, Smoke
Image by Comfreak/Pixabay
Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking is necessary for total wellness. Smoking greatly increases the probability of having heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, atherosclerosis, cancer, and many other diseases.
Image by TheVisualMD
Smoking Assaults the Heart & Arteries
How smoking damages blood vessel linings and raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes
Image by TheVisualMD
Quit Smoking
Smoking will kill about 650 million of all the people alive in the world today. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the US, where it kills about 440,000 people each year. Tobacco is a very toxic drug. Smoking even 1-4 cigarettes a day can lead to serious health problems, including a higher risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and dying at a younger age. Smokers are twice as likely to die of a heart attack as nonsmokers, and are much more likely to die within 1 hour of a heart attack.
Image by TheVisualMD
Dangers of smoking to your fetus and newborn
Maternal bond - Dangers of smoking to your fetus and newborn
Image by TheVisualMD
Smoking cessation
TheVisualMD
How Can Bronchitis Be Prevented?
BruceBlaus
7:35
Bronchitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments - Dr. My-Huyen Tran
UT Health Science Center at Tyler/YouTube
Stop Smoking before, during, after your Pregnancy
TheVisualMD / Alexas _ Fotos
Quitting Smoking
TheVisualMD
Stopping Smoking Countdown to Better Health
TheVisualMD
Cartoon of a “No-Smoking” sign in an open outdoor area, with nearby people enjoying a picnic lunch
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Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a condition in which the airways in the lungs, called bronchial tubes, become inflamed and cause coughing, often with mucus. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Learn more about bronchitis causes, symptoms, and treatment.