How Weight Affects Respiratory Infections: Obesity, Underweight, Malnutrition and Pneumonia Risk
Respiratory health guide How Weight Affects Respiratory Infections: Obesity, Underweight, Malnutrition and Pneumonia Risk Body weight can influence immune defence, breathing mechanics, aspiration risk and recovery from respiratory infections. Risk may rise in people living with severe obesity as well as those who are underweight or malnourished. Obesity and immunity Lung reserve Aspiration risk Malnutrition […]
Prophylactic Antibiotics in Bronchiectasis: Why, How, and What You Should Know
Bronchiectasis treatment guide Prophylactic Antibiotics in Bronchiectasis: Why, How, and What You Should Know Long-term antibiotics can reduce bronchiectasis flare-ups in selected patients. This guide explains why they are prescribed, how oral and nebulised options differ, and what monitoring patients should expect. Long-term antibiotics Azithromycin Nebulised antibiotics Pseudomonas Safety monitoring In this article What they […]
Precision Medicine in Bronchiectasis: Why Inhaled Antibiotics Help Some Patients More Than Others
Personalised bronchiectasis treatment Precision Medicine in Bronchiectasis: Why Inhaled Antibiotics Help Some Patients More Than Others Inhaled antibiotics can substantially reduce flare-ups for some people with bronchiectasis, yet provide limited benefit for others. Emerging research suggests that differences in airway microbiology, inflammation and host response may explain why. Precision medicine Inhaled antibiotics Pseudomonas endotypes Airway […]
Airway clearance devices: who might benefit and what to ask your physio
Airway clearance and chest physiotherapy Airway Clearance Devices: Who Might Benefit and What to Ask Your Physio Airway-clearance devices can help mobilise sticky mucus when the lungs struggle to remove it naturally. The most effective device is not necessarily the most expensive or sophisticated—it is the one that matches your condition, breathing pattern, cough strength […]
Gefapixent for Chronic Cough Hypersensitivity Syndrome
Treatment for refractory or unexplained chronic cough Gefapixent for Chronic Cough: How It Works, Benefits and UK Access Gefapixent, sold under the brand name Lyfnua, is a licensed medicine for adults whose chronic cough remains unexplained or continues despite appropriate treatment of underlying causes. It targets the over-sensitive sensory nerves involved in cough hypersensitivity. Cough […]
Bronchiectasis in Immunocompromised Individuals
Bronchiectasis, immunity and recurrent infection Bronchiectasis in Immunocompromised Individuals Bronchiectasis can develop or progress when weakened immune defences allow respiratory infections to recur. Effective care requires more than antibiotics alone: clinicians must investigate the immune problem, improve mucus clearance, treat infection and reduce avoidable immunosuppression. Antibody deficiency Immunoglobulin replacement Steroid reduction Prophylactic antibiotics Airway clearance […]
Bronchiectasis Diet: Evidence-Based Nutritional Tips
Nutrition, healthy weight and respiratory wellbeing Bronchiectasis Diet: Evidence-Based Nutritional Tips There is no single diet that treats bronchiectasis. However, maintaining a healthy weight, preserving muscle, eating enough protein, correcting genuine deficiencies and planning for exacerbations can support respiratory health and recovery. Healthy weight Protein Vitamin D Zinc and magnesium Hydration Flare-up nutrition In this […]
Brensocatib: Is this breakthrough a Game-Changer for Bronchiectasis?
New bronchiectasis treatment Brensocatib: Is This Breakthrough a Game-Changer for Bronchiectasis? Brensocatib is the first licensed medicine designed specifically to target neutrophilic inflammation in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. Here is what the clinical trials, regulatory approvals and current UK access position mean for patients. DPP1 inhibition ASPEN trial Exacerbation reduction FDA and MHRA approval NHS access […]
The Rise in Viral Respiratory Infections: Human Metapneumovirus
Seasonal respiratory viruses and specialist lung assessment The Rise in Viral Respiratory Infections: Human Metapneumovirus Human metapneumovirus can cause symptoms ranging from a mild cold to bronchiolitis, pneumonia or worsening of an existing lung condition. Although it has recently received greater public attention, hMPV is not a new virus. Understanding who is at risk, when […]
Fatigue in Bronchiectasis: Understanding and Managing a Debilitating Symptom
Bronchiectasis symptoms, fatigue and quality of life Fatigue in Bronchiectasis: Understanding and Managing a Debilitating Symptom Fatigue in bronchiectasis is common, often under-recognised, and can be as life-limiting as cough or sputum production. It may be driven by chronic inflammation, recurrent infection, poor sleep, breathlessness, reduced fitness and the psychological burden of living with a […]
Understanding and Managing the Treatment Burden in Bronchiectasis
Making bronchiectasis treatment effective, realistic and sustainable Understanding and Managing the Treatment Burden in Bronchiectasis Bronchiectasis treatment may involve airway clearance, nebulised medicines, inhalers, antibiotics, exercise, monitoring and repeated appointments. These treatments can improve health, but the combined workload can consume time, increase fatigue and affect emotional wellbeing. A good treatment plan should be clinically […]
Understanding Globus Sensation: The Sensation of a Lump in the Throat
Throat symptoms, chronic cough and multidisciplinary assessment Understanding Globus Sensation: The Sensation of a Lump in the Throat Globus sensation is the feeling of a lump, pressure or tightness in the throat when no physical obstruction is present. It is usually harmless, but persistent symptoms can be uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking. Globus may coexist with reflux, […]
Bronchiectasis Consultation: Key Symptoms and Essential Information for Your Doctor
Preparing for a productive specialist respiratory appointment Bronchiectasis Consultation: What to Tell Your Doctor A bronchiectasis consultation is most useful when your specialist has a clear picture of your usual symptoms, recent changes, chest infections, sputum results, treatments and the effect of the condition on daily life. Preparing this information can help identify treatable problems […]
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO): A Quick Guide
Asthma diagnosis, type 2 airway inflammation and treatment monitoring Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO): A Quick Guide Fractional exhaled nitric oxide testing is a quick, non-invasive breathing test that measures nitric oxide in exhaled air. It helps identify type 2 or eosinophilic airway inflammation, supports the diagnosis of asthma and can provide useful information about […]
Smoking Cessation: Your Questions Answered
Evidence-based support for becoming smoke-free Smoking Cessation: Your Questions Answered Stopping smoking is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your lungs, heart and long-term health. Quitting can be difficult because tobacco dependence involves both nicotine addiction and established daily habits. The right treatment and behavioural support can make the process […]
Navigating the Risks of Year-Round Respiratory Viruses
Understanding infection risk beyond the traditional winter season Navigating the Risks of Year-Round Respiratory Viruses Respiratory infections are often associated with autumn and winter, but viruses can circulate at any time of year. Influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and the many viruses that cause common colds each have different patterns. Travel, population behaviour, changing immunity […]
Nebulised Antibiotics in Non-CF Bronchiectasis
Long-term infection suppression in selected adults with bronchiectasis Nebulised Antibiotics in Non-CF Bronchiectasis Nebulised antibiotics deliver antimicrobial treatment directly into the airways. They may be considered for selected adults with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, particularly those with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and frequent exacerbations despite optimised bronchiectasis care. Chronic Pseudomonas infection Colistimethate Gentamicin Other inhaled antibiotics […]
Breathing Pattern Dysfunction: What is it and what can you do about it?
Understanding persistent breathlessness, air hunger and altered breathing Breathing Pattern Dysfunction: What Is It and What Can You Do About It? Breathing pattern dysfunction, also called breathing pattern disorder or dysfunctional breathing, describes an inefficient or altered way of breathing that can cause breathlessness, chest tightness, air hunger, dizziness, tingling, palpitations and fatigue. It can […]
Viral Pneumonia: The Echoing Spectre in a Post-Pandemic World
Understanding viral lung infection after the COVID-19 pandemic Viral Pneumonia: The Echoing Spectre in a Post-Pandemic World Viral pneumonia occurs when a respiratory virus infects the lungs and causes inflammation within the small airways and air sacs. COVID-19 demonstrated how severe viral pneumonia can become, but influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus and other viruses […]
Deciphering Causes of Chest Pain: Respiratory, Cardiac, Gastroenterolgical or Musculoskeletal?
Understanding chest discomfort without overlooking urgent causes Deciphering Causes of Chest Pain: Respiratory, Cardiac, Gastroenterological or Musculoskeletal? Chest pain can arise from the heart, lungs, oesophagus, chest wall, nerves or several other structures. The character of the pain may provide clues, but symptoms overlap and potentially serious causes cannot be excluded safely from an online […]
Pulmonary Embolism: Causes, treatment and Answers to Common Questions
Recognising, diagnosing and treating blood clots in the lungs Pulmonary Embolism: Causes, Treatment and Answers to Common Questions A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks one or more arteries in the lungs. It can range from a small, stable clot to a life-threatening obstruction that places severe strain on the heart. Rapid recognition […]
Introduction to Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)
A genetic disorder of the lungs, sinuses, ears and motile cilia Introduction to Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a rare inherited condition in which motile cilia do not form or move normally. Impaired mucus clearance can cause a wet cough from early life, chronic sinus and ear disease, recurrent chest infections and […]
Asthma with Fungal Sensitisation: Unveiling the Intricacies
Understanding mould allergy, severe asthma and Aspergillus-related disease Asthma with Fungal Sensitisation: Unveiling the Intricacies Some people with asthma develop an allergic immune response to airborne fungal proteins. This sensitisation may act as an asthma trigger and is more common in difficult or severe asthma, but it is not the same as fungal infection or […]
Demystifying Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis
Understanding an important Aspergillus-related airway disorder Demystifying Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, usually shortened to ABPA, is an exaggerated immune response to Aspergillus within susceptible airways. It most often affects people with asthma or cystic fibrosis and can cause worsening wheeze, thick mucus, recurrent lung abnormalities and bronchiectasis. Aspergillus allergy Asthma Thick mucus plugs […]
Pneumonia’s Varying Guises: From the Home to the ICU
Respiratory infection education • Pneumonia explained clearly Pneumonia’s Varying Guises: From the Home to the ICU Pneumonia is not one single condition. It can begin in the community, develop after hospital admission, or arise in the intensive care setting. The likely organisms, severity, treatment approach, and risk of multidrug resistance can differ substantially depending on […]
The Internal Medicine Physician: Who They Are and How They Can Help You
Adult Medicine Explained The Internal Medicine Physician: Who They Are and How They Can Help You An internal medicine physician, also known as an internist, specialises in diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses in adults. They are especially valuable when symptoms are complex, conditions overlap, or you need a doctor who can look at the bigger […]
ESKAPE: Emerging Multi-Drug Resistant Pneumonia Pathogens!
Antimicrobial resistance and severe respiratory infection ESKAPE: Emerging Multi-Drug Resistant Pneumonia Pathogens! ESKAPE pathogens are a group of bacteria with a remarkable ability to survive antimicrobial treatment and spread in healthcare environments. Several can cause severe hospital-acquired or ventilator-associated pneumonia, particularly in critically ill, immunocompromised or heavily treated patients. Antimicrobial resistance Hospital-acquired pneumonia Ventilator-associated pneumonia […]
The Future of Pneumonia Diagnosis and Treatment
Emerging technology, precision diagnostics and better-targeted care The Future of Pneumonia Diagnosis and Treatment Pneumonia remains a potentially serious lung infection, but its investigation and treatment are changing. Artificial intelligence, rapid molecular testing, improved imaging, genomic surveillance and more precise antimicrobial strategies may help clinicians diagnose infection faster, identify the likely cause and choose treatment […]
Bronchiolitis Obliterans: The ‘Popcorn Lung’ Mystery
Respiratory medicine • rare airway disease Bronchiolitis Obliterans: The ‘Popcorn Lung’ Mystery Bronchiolitis obliterans is an uncommon but important small-airway disease in which inflammation and scarring narrow the bronchioles, making it progressively harder for air to move in and out of the lungs. It has become widely known as “popcorn lung”, but the condition is […]
Sleep hygiene: Mastering Sleep Quality and Conquering Insomnia
Healthy sleep habits, insomnia and restorative rest Sleep Hygiene: Mastering Sleep Quality and Conquering Insomnia Sleep hygiene describes the habits, routines and environmental conditions that support healthy sleep. It can improve the foundations of sleep, but persistent insomnia may require a more structured assessment and cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia rather than sleep-hygiene advice alone. […]
Low Dose Lung CT: What is it?
Lung imaging, pulmonary nodules and early detection Low-Dose Lung CT: What Is It? A low-dose CT scan uses carefully optimised X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs while exposing the patient to less radiation than a conventional diagnostic chest CT. It is best known for lung cancer screening in appropriately selected people at […]
Fungal Foes: The Impact and Treatment of Endemic Mycoses
Fungal lung disease and respiratory infection Fungal Foes: The Impact and Treatment of Endemic Mycoses Endemic mycoses are environmental fungal infections that commonly enter the body through the lungs. Some cause mild, self-limiting illness, while others can produce severe pneumonia, chronic lung disease, meningitis or infection that spreads throughout the body. Histoplasmosis Cryptococcosis Blastomycosis Mucormycosis […]
Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Guide
Tuberculosis infection, diagnosis, prevention and treatment Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Guide Tuberculosis, commonly called TB, is an infectious disease caused by bacteria in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. It most often affects the lungs but can involve almost any part of the body. TB is preventable and usually curable, but delayed diagnosis and drug resistance remain major […]
Understanding Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Fungal lung infection, aspergilloma and lung cavities Understanding Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is a group of slowly progressive lung conditions caused by Aspergillus mould. It most often develops in people with damaged or structurally abnormal lungs and can cause persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, breathlessness and coughing up blood. Aspergillus mould Lung cavities […]
Unravelling the Mystery of Night Sweats: Causes, Tests, and Management
Persistent sweating, respiratory symptoms and medical investigation Unravelling the Mystery of Night Sweats: Causes, Tests, and Management Night sweats are episodes of excessive sweating during sleep that soak nightclothes or bedding despite a comfortably cool room. Although they are often related to menopause, medicines, anxiety or environmental heat, persistent episodes can sometimes accompany infection, obstructive […]
Understanding Empyema: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Pleural infection, pneumonia complications and chest drainage Understanding Empyema: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Empyema is an infected collection of pus within the pleural space between the lung and chest wall. It most commonly develops as a complication of pneumonia and requires prompt antibiotics, specialist assessment and, in many cases, drainage of the infected fluid. Pleural […]
Who Should Have the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
Pneumococcal disease, eligibility and current vaccine guidance Who Should Have the Pneumococcal Vaccine? Pneumococcal vaccination helps protect against serious infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis. Eligibility depends on age, health, vaccination history and national guidance. Adults aged 65 and over Clinical-risk groups PCV20 Children Immune suppression Chronic lung disease Pneumococcal vaccination […]
A Guide to COPD exacerbations
Recognising, treating and preventing COPD flare-ups A Guide to COPD Exacerbations A COPD exacerbation is an acute and sustained worsening of breathlessness, cough, sputum or other respiratory symptoms beyond normal day-to-day variation. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can reduce complications and support recovery. Warning symptoms Common triggers Rescue treatment Hospital care Recovery Prevention A significant […]
A Guide to Understand Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)
Defining Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) IPF is a chronic and progressive lung disease.It is one the lung disease encompaseed in the term “Interstitial Lung Disease” The process, known as fibrosis, causes the lung tissues to thicken and stiffen, impeding normal respiratory function. The term ‘Idiopathic’ is used when the cause of this condition remains unknown. […]
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: A Problem in Chronic Lung disease
We live in a world teeming with invisible life forms. One such organism that has emerged as a major concern in recent years is Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. You might not have heard of it, or you might have come across this term but haven’t quite understood what it signifies. It’s not as familiar as common germs […]
The Impact of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome on Respiratory Symptoms
Understanding mast-cell mediators, breathing symptoms and diagnostic uncertainty The Impact of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome on Respiratory Symptoms Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, usually abbreviated to MCAS, describes recurrent systemic episodes in which mast-cell mediators are released inappropriately. Wheeze, throat tightness, nasal congestion and breathlessness may occur, but these symptoms overlap with asthma, rhinosinusitis, inducible laryngeal […]
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 […]
Interstitial Lung Disease: a guide to understanding the term and navigating the diagnosis
When discussing lung conditions, the term ‘interstitial lung disease’ (ILD) often pops up. But what does this term mean? It’s an umbrella term that covers over a hundred different lung conditions. All of them affect the interstitium, the tissue and space surrounding the lungs’ tiny air sacs (alveoli). When this area becomes damaged, it can […]
Boosting Your Immune System: Preventing Lung Infections
The Immune System: Your Body’s Personal Army Each of us possesses a personal protective army – a genuine aspect of our biological makeup: our immune system. Composed of an intricate network of cells, tissues, and organs, the immune system is our body’s primary defence mechanism against harmful foreign invaders, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When […]
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 […]
Phages in Bronchiectasis Treatment: A Revolutionary Approach?
The Burden of Bronchiectasis Bronchiectasis presents a significant health challenge worldwide. This condition is characterised by a permanent enlargement of the airways. It results in a chronic cough, fatigue, and persistent chest infections. Current treatments help manage symptoms and control infection but do not offer a permanent solution to the presence of colonising bacteria. However, […]
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 […]
Comprehensive Guide to NTM Treatment: Key Medications Explained
Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) infections present a significant public health concern globally. NTM, unlike tuberculosis, aren’t transmitted from person to person. However, they can cause severe lung disease, particularly in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment are vital in managing these infections. With an increasing number of cases each year, understanding NTM […]
Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: Understanding the disease
Understanding environmental mycobacteria and chronic lung infection Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: Understanding the Disease Non-tuberculous mycobacteria are environmental bacteria found in water, soil and aerosols. They can occasionally cause chronic pulmonary disease, particularly in people with bronchiectasis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis or impaired immunity. Finding NTM in a sputum sample does not always […]
Understanding Bronchiectasis: A Look into its Complications
The world of respiratory health presents many challenges, and this includes the complications of bronchiectasis. Bronchiectasis is a condition, characterised by the permanent enlargement of the bronchial tubes, and is often debilitating. This blog article highlights some of the important complications of bronchiectasis, with a focus on bacterial colonisation, frequent exacerbations, non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections, […]
Understanding Aspergillus Mould: A Silent Cause of Fungal Lung Disease
Understanding environmental mould and the different forms of aspergillosis Understanding Aspergillus Mould: A Silent Cause of Fungal Lung Disease Aspergillus is a widespread environmental mould whose microscopic spores are inhaled every day. Most people remain completely well, but in susceptible lungs it can cause allergic airway disease, chronic infection, a fungal ball or rapidly progressive […]
When Should You Be Worried About Your Cough?
Cough and respiratory health guide When Should You Be Worried About Your Cough? Most coughs settle without serious consequences, but a persistent, severe or unusual cough may need medical assessment. Learn which symptoms should prompt concern and how a cough specialist investigates the underlying cause. Persistent cough Warning symptoms Breathlessness Coughing up blood Specialist assessment […]
Finding Your Best Bronchiectasis Doctor and Treatment Strategies
Bronchiectasis care guide How to Find the Best Bronchiectasis Doctor for Your Care Bronchiectasis is a complex, long-term lung condition. Finding a respiratory specialist with focused experience in bronchiectasis and recurrent chest infections can make a significant difference to diagnosis, treatment and quality of life. Specialist experience Diagnostic testing Airway clearance Infection management Multidisciplinary care […]
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 […]
Early Lung Cancer Detection: Screening Saves Lives
Lung cancer screening guide Early Lung Cancer Detection: Screening Saves Lives Lung cancer screening uses low-dose CT imaging to look for early disease in people who may be at increased risk but do not have symptoms. Detecting lung cancer earlier can expand treatment options and improve the likelihood of successful treatment. Early detection Low-dose CT […]
5 Reasons Why your Cough would never Fade: Chronic cough
What is a Chronic cough? Most coughs are short lived. They are a present during a brief illness such as when someone has a cold. However, some of these coughs can last up to 8 weeks.It is called a chronic cough.This is long enough for people to find it unbearable and seek medical attention. A […]
6 Tips to manage Mucus Hypersecretion
What is Mucus Hypersecretion? Mucus hypersecretion causes due to the mucus or phlegm that is expelled from the lower respiratory tract (bronchi and lungs) through coughing. This is a slippery, clear liquid produced by mucous glands. Some people experience excessive production of mucus in their lungs. This leads to discomfort, breathing problems, and increased risk […]
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 […]
10 Long term effects of COVID-19 (Long COVID)
What is Long COVID? Post-COVID syndrome which is known as Long COVID is persistence of symptoms following COVID-19. Due to the prevalence of symptoms for over 4 weeks post initial infection, this results in long-term impairment of health and quality of life. Two major Types of Long COVID Long COVID which is a sequel of […]
Treatment of bronchiectasis: What should I know?
What is bronchiectasis? Before discussing the treatment of bronchiectasis it is important to understand what bronchiectasis is and how it affects people. Bronchiectasis is a condition where there is abnormal dilation of the bronchi. There are several medical conditions that lead to this condition and need to be considered when treating people with bronchiectasis. However, […]
