If the respiratory system fails, the cells in the vital organs of the body will die after three to five minutes without oxygen. Respiratory Diseases and Disorders Sourcebook is a comprehensive collection of authoritative information presented in a nontechnical, humanitarian style for patients, their families, and caregivers. It presents details of specific respiratory problems, their detection and treatment, and ways to control symptoms and discomfort. Covered in detail are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the common cold and influenza, cystic fibrosis, breathing disorders during sleep, SIDS, and much more. Other chapters discuss ways to minimize or eliminate breathing irritants, including biological agents, ozone air pollution, humidifiers, and tobacco smoke. A section on current research into respiratory illness, treatment and prevention highlights specific research initiatives; new drugs, treatments, and problems; and research into respiratory problems of minorities.