Environmental factors in NTM infections
Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections are an increasing public health challenge globally, and environmental factors play a significant role in this rise. NTM are opportunistic pathogens found in diverse habitats such as soil, water systems, and even household plumbing. Unlike Mycobacterium tuberculosis, NTM are not thought to spread from person to person but through environmental exposure. […]
Prednisolone for Lung Disease: Benefits, Side Effects, and Alternatives.
Corticosteroids play a key role in treating many lung diseases, especially asthma and inflammatory interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). They reduce inflammation and swelling in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Prednisolone is one of the most commonly prescribed corticosteroids because of its strength and effectiveness. However, it comes with risks. Understanding Prednisolone and Its […]
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO): A Quick Guide
Understanding Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Ever pondered what your breath could reveal about your health? Measurement of FeNO is a useful and non-invasive way to understand if you have a specific type of inflammation in your airways. In essence, FeNO measures a specific type of gas in your exhaled breath, shedding light on the […]
Unraveling the Intricacies of Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GvHD)
Graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a complex medical condition that follows stem cell transplantation. When the newly introduced immune system turns against the host’s cells, it leads to GvHD. This occurrence can assume various forms, such as acute, chronic, progressive, or overlap, each exhibiting different severity levels. A myriad of organs, including the skin, gut, mouth, […]
Smoking Cessation: Your Questions Answered
Has the decision to stop smoking finally been made? You’ve made a wise choice, and this guide will provide you with all the support and information you need on your journey to smoking cessation. We answer all your queries about quitting smoking, ranging from the hazards associated with smoking to the most effective strategies to […]
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infection: When to Treat?
As an expert in pulmonary infections, Dr Ricardo Jose, frequently encounter queries about Mycobacterium other than Tuberculosis, also known as Non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM). Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial infections can be quite puzzling, not only for patients but also for other healthcare professionals. Let’s look at understanding when to treat these pulmonary infections, balancing the fine line between […]
The Unravelling of Green Sputum: A Comprehensive Insight
Green sputum raises eyebrows and concerns alike. Let’s look into the anatomy, biochemistry, immunology, and cellular biomedicine of sputum to understand its true nature and implications. What is Sputum? Often colloquially referred to as phlegm, sputum is not just any mucus. Originating from the lungs and lower respiratory tract, sputum has a unique composition and […]
Bronchiolitis Obliterans: The ‘Popcorn Lung’ Mystery
Introduction Bronchiolitis obliterans is more than just a tongue-twisting medical term. It’s a growing concern in respiratory medicine, often leaving patients and clinicians alike perplexed. Let’s unravel this respiratory enigma. Chronicles of ‘Popcorn Lung’ An odyssey into the annals of medical history reveals significant markers in the Bronchiolitis obliterans narrative. From Popcorn Factories to Lungs […]
Who Should Have the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
The pneumococcal vaccine, often colloquially referred to as the pneumonia vaccine, plays an integral role in the prevention of diseases caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. However, it’s important to remember that this particular bacterium is not the only cause of pneumonia, a common misconception. What is the Pneumococcal Vaccine The pneumococcal vaccine targets Streptococcus […]
A Guide to COPD exacerbations
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease s a debilitating, progressive lung disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterised by persistent respiratory symptoms and limited airflow, COPD can severely impact a person’s quality of life and day-to-day functioning. One of the key features of this disease is the occurrence of exacerbations – periods when symptoms become significantly […]
Early Lung Cancer Detection: Screening Saves Lives
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early detection through lung cancer screening is a crucial step in reducing mortality rates and improving the prognosis for individuals at risk. Here you will read about lung cancer screening, the procedures involved, and why it is essential to consult a lung specialist offering this […]
7 Warning signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for a number of lung diseases that make breathing difficult. COPD is a massively under diagnosed disease that is the third leading cause of death in the world. COPD often leads to exacerbations that significantly impact on quality of life and increases the risk of death […]
3-step Guide to Manage Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
What is COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. The limitation in the airflow occurs as the airways are obstructed and narrowed. The obstruction particularly results in difficulty to expel air out of the lungs. #1 Make the Diagnosis and Start Treatment […]