Lung Health Check: What to Expect and Who Benefits
A lung health check is a vital screening process designed to detect lung diseases early, often before symptoms appear. This check is particularly important for individuals at higher risk of lung conditions, including lung cancer. The assessment includes a detailed consultation, advanced imaging like low-dose CT (LDCT) scans, and lung function tests such as Spirometry, […]
Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia (PJP)
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is a potentially life-threatening fungal infection that affects the lungs. It is primarily seen in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS, but also in non-HIV patients who have compromised immune systems. Early recognition and treatment are critical for reducing mortality and improving outcomes. Epidemiology Pneumocystis jirovecii, previously known as Pneumocystis carinii […]
Managing and Preventing Stress Incontinence in Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition characterised by the abnormal widening of the bronchi, leading to frequent respiratory infections and mucus accumulation. While the respiratory symptoms of bronchiectasis are well-known, the condition’s impact on other bodily functions, such as bladder health, is often overlooked. Stress incontinence, a type of urinary incontinence, is a common but […]
Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM): Where Did I Get It?
What are Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM)? Nontuberculous mycobacteria are a diverse group of bacteria found naturally in the environment, particularly in soil and water. Unlike their well-known relatives, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (which causes tuberculosis) and Mycobacterium leprae (which causes leprosy), NTM are not typically spread from person to person. Instead, they infect individuals through environmental exposure. Where […]
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 […]
Deciphering Causes of Chest Pain: Respiratory, Cardiac, Gastroenterolgical or Musculoskeletal?
Introduction When your chest gives a twinge, a whirlwind of concerns can flood your mind. Yet, the causes of chest pain aren’t always sinister. Let’s take a journey through the maze of potential causes, from investigations to treatments. 1. Breathing Trouble: Respiratory Pain as an Origin of Chest Pain Our lungs play a crucial role, […]
Understanding Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI)
What is Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI)? LTBI, or Latent Tuberculosis Infection, isn’t a term that we hear every day. Essentially, it describes a state where a person carries the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria in their body but does not show any symptoms of the disease – Tuberculosis. In this state, the bacteria exist in a dormant […]
The Internal Medicine Physician: Who They Are and How They Can Help You
So, What Exactly is a Physician? Firstly, let’s break it down. A physician is a medical professional who is qualified to practise medicine after undergoing rigorous training. They are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of their patients, diagnosing ailments, and recommending treatments. But, What Makes an Internal Medicine Physician Unique? An internal medicine physician, often […]
The Complications of Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Introduction Got a good night’s sleep lately? Ah, what a loaded question that’s become in our go-go-go world! We’re often too wired on caffeine and stress to even consider what a ‘good’ sleep feels like. But what if it’s not just the hustle and bustle of life that’s robbing you of your slumber? What if […]
Sleep hygiene: Mastering Sleep Quality and Conquering Insomnia
Introduction Hello there, Sleep Seeker! Are you still tangled in the frustrating whirl of counting sheep? Or does turning and twisting in bed seem like your regular nocturnal exercise? Well, bid adeus to those restless nights with this advise. Whether you’re grappling with insomnia or simply striving to boost your sleep quality, your answer lies […]
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Snoring
Understanding the Sleep Intruder: What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)? Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is an all-too-common yet often under-diagnosed sleep disorder. Its primary characteristic? Brief and repeated interruptions to your breathing while you sleep. But it’s not merely a case of holding one’s breath – the drama unfolds as the muscles at the back […]
Unravelling the Mystery of Night Sweats: Causes, Tests, and Management
Finding yourself waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat? You’re not alone. Many people grapple with night sweats, a condition that can be caused by an array of health issues, both minor and severe. When should you worry, and how can you manage night sweats? Let’s unravel this mysterious condition. What […]
A Brief Guide to a Low Histamine Diet
If you have been diagnosed with histamine intolerance, or have been advised to follow a low histamine diet, this guide will help you understand what it involves. Histamine is a chemical your body produces as part of your immune and digestive systems. Some people have trouble breaking down this compound, leading to an excess in […]
Experience Top-tier Care with a Home Visit Respiratory Doctor
Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Respiratory Care Healthcare is evolving, and so should your expectations. Have you heard of a home visit from a respiratory doctor? This new approach to personalised care brings top-tier medical services to your doorstep. Let’s explore this further. Unpacking the Home Visit from a Respiratory Doctor A home visit respiratory […]
The Vaporous Reality of Vaping and Lung Disease
Vaping, often presented as a harmless, modern alternative to traditional cigarettes, is increasingly under the spotlight as emerging research reveals a darker side. This guide aims to demystify the reality of vaping, focusing particularly on the potential link between vaping and lung disease. Drawing from the insightful letters written by Dr Ricardo Jose to The […]
Respiratory Treatment in London: Breaking Down 8 Common Myths
Navigating the realm of respiratory treatment in London can be daunting, particularly when numerous myths often cloud the facts. Let’s debunk these common misconceptions, particularly in the context of London—a city with access to some of the country’s finest respiratory specialists and healthcare facilities like the renowned Royal Brompton Hospital, which specialises in heart and […]
What is mould? Its Risks, Remediation, and More
When it comes to home hazards, there’s one sinister and often overlooked culprit: mould. This stealthy invader could be hiding in homes, compromising health without the individuals knowledge. What is Mould? Mould is a type of fungi. It’s ubiquitous in our environment, thriving both indoors and outdoors. Mould propagates by producing microscopic spores that float […]
Respiratory Infections in Sarcoidosis: Understanding the Link and Treatment
Respiratory infections can have a significant impact on individuals with sarcoidosis. This is due to structural lung disease and the immunosuppressive medication used to treat the lung inflammation. The connection between sarcoidosis and respiratory infections is explored here, including the symptoms and valuable information on managing and preventing these infections. By understanding this link and […]
Understanding Different Types of Coughs: Wet vs. Dry
When it comes to understanding different types of coughs, knowing the difference between wet and dry coughs is important. The two main types of coughs – wet and dry – are discussed here including their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Recognising these differences is crucial for proper treatment and to ensure you’re on the road to […]
What Does a Chest Chest Doctor Do? When to See a Respiratory Specialist or Physician.
What does a Chest Doctor do? Chest physicians are also known as chest physicians or respiratory medicine specialists. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating respiratory illnesses such as asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, lung cancer, and tuberculosis. They also specialize in treating sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnoea. One of the key responsibilities of a […]