Since this entire show is packed with tips about medical topics, Rachael invites Dr. Ian Smith to shed some light on a disease that is becoming more prevalent in the United States.

• Cryptococcus Gattii Fungus: "It's a fungus disease," Dr. Ian Smith says, "It's typically found in tropical areas, but now we've found cases in the Pacific Northwest." Heavily wooded areas are ideal environments for the fungus to grow in, he explains, and can lead to illness in humans. "These spores will go in the air, we will breathe in the spores, it attaches to our lung and that's when it does the damage to our soft tissue."

• Symptoms: If inhaled, he says the fungus can cause lung problems, including coughs and shortness of breath.

• More info: If you live or are traveling to the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Ian suggests checking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, which lists geographic hot spots for the disease. If you have a persistent cough and could have been exposed to the fungus, Dr. Ian suggests consulting a doctor.

Related Links

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Dr. Ian Smith