Final answer:
The six main diagnoses of pulmonary function are asthma, pneumonia, COPD, lung cancer, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), and pulmonary fibrosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The six main diagnoses of pulmonary function are:
- Asthma: a condition where the airways become narrow and inflamed, leading to difficulty in breathing. It is characterized by wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
- Pneumonia: an infection of the lungs, usually caused by bacteria or viruses. Symptoms include cough, fever, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a progressive lung disease that includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants like smoking.
- Lung cancer: a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the lungs. It can cause symptoms like chronic cough, chest pain, weight loss, and difficulty breathing.
- Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS): a condition most commonly observed in premature infants, characterized by a lack of surfactant in the alveoli, resulting in difficulty in breathing.
- Pulmonary fibrosis: a condition where the lung tissue becomes scarred and stiff, leading to decreased lung function and difficulty in breathing.