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A general examination of the respiratory system

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  A general examination of the respiratory system involves a systematic assessment of the various components involved in breathing and oxygen exchange. Here's an overview of the key elements typically evaluated during a respiratory examination: 1. Patient History: Begin by gathering relevant information about the patient's medical history, including any respiratory conditions, allergies, exposure to environmental toxins, smoking history, and previous surgeries or treatments. 2. Observation: Observe the patient for signs of respiratory distress, such as abnormal breathing patterns, use of accessory muscles, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin or lips), and the presence of a persistent cough. 3. Vital Signs: Measure the patient's vital signs, including respiratory rate (number of breaths per minute), heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Abnormalities in these measurements may indicate respiratory compromise. 4. Inspection: Examine the patient's face, neck, ...

Causes of tachycardia, Tachycardia Causes

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Tachycardia refers to a rapid heart rate, typically defined as a heart rate above 100 beats per minute in adults. There are several potential causes of tachycardia, which can be broadly classified into two categories: physiological (normal) and pathological (abnormal) causes. Here are some common causes: Physiological causes: Physical activity or exercise: During physical exertion, the heart rate increases to meet the body's increased oxygen demands. Emotional or psychological stress: Strong emotions, anxiety, fear, or stress can trigger a temporary increase in heart rate. Fever: Elevated body temperature associated with fever can lead to an increased heart rate. Stimulant use: Consumption of substances like caffeine, nicotine, certain medications (e.g., decongestants), or illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines) can cause tachycardia. Pathological causes: Heart-related conditions: Various heart disorders can cause tachycardia, such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, suprav...