Tracheal Disorder Symptoms and Treatment

Overview of Trachea

• The trachea, or windpipe, begins under the larynx and divides into bronchi leading to the lungs.
• Conditions affecting the trachea can severely impact breathing.

Types of Tracheal Disorders

1. Tracheal Stenosis
   • Narrowing of the trachea affecting air flow.
   • Severity ranges from mild to severe, possibly requiring a tracheotomy.
2. Tracheomalacia
   • Weakness in tracheal walls due to degraded cartilage.
   • Occurs in infants and can be acquired by adults.
3. Tracheal Tumors
   • Rare, but cause narrowing and coughing of blood.
   • Benign Tumors: pleomorphic adenoma, squamous cell papilloma, etc.
   • Malignant Tumors: adenoid cystic carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, etc.
4. Other Disorders:
   • Tracheoesophageal fistula
   • Tracheobronchomalacia

Causes of Tracheal Disorders

Tracheal Stenosis

• Commonly caused by intubation.
• Other causes: trauma, infections, tumors, radiation therapy, autoimmune disorders, idiopathic.

Tracheomalacia

• Causes: surgical damage, chronic infections, GERD, inhaling irritants, etc.

Symptoms of Tracheal Disorders

Tracheal Stenosis

• Symptoms: wheezing, stridor, shortness of breath, coughing, hoarseness, blue skin, etc.

Tracheomalacia

• Symptoms: shortness of breath, chronic cough, hoarseness, noisy breathing, difficulty swallowing.

Diagnosis of Tracheal Disorders

Tracheal Stenosis

• Tests: pulmonary function test, CT scan, chest X-ray, bronchoscopy.

Tracheomalacia

• Tests: 6-minute walk test, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, bronchoscopy, MRI, etc.

Treatment Options for Tracheal Disorders

Tracheal Stenosis

• Treatment: argon plasma coagulation, bronchial artery embolization, tracheal dilation, laser bronchoscopy, airway stent, tracheal resection, tracheobronchoplasty.

Tracheomalacia

• Treatment: CPAP, chest therapy, speech therapy, airway stent.

Tracheal Tumors

• Treatment may include brachytherapy and photodynamic therapy.

Patient Care at The Lung Center

• Patients receive team-based care involving various specialists.
• Collaborative approach ensures comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
• Surgeries performed by experienced, board-certified specialists.

Additional Information

• Location and appointment booking details.
• Access to further resources via links to teams, appointments, and educational libraries.