New 2025 ERS bronchiectasis guidelines: what you need to know
Updated adult bronchiectasis guidance New 2025 ERS Bronchiectasis Guidelines: What You Need to Know The 2025 European Respiratory Society bronchiectasis guideline strengthens the role of personalised care, airway clearance, pulmonary rehabilitation and targeted long-term antibiotics. It also moves away from a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach to exacerbation risk. Airway clearance Macrolides Inhaled antibiotics Pseudomonas eradication Pulmonary […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
The Breath Behind the Ache: Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Lungs
Understanding respiratory complications of rheumatoid arthritis The Breath Behind the Ache: Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Lungs Rheumatoid arthritis is best known for causing painful, swollen joints, but it is a systemic autoimmune disease that can also affect the lung tissue, airways, pleura and pulmonary circulation. Lung symptoms may develop before, alongside or after joint disease […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Snoring
Snoring, sleep-disordered breathing and daytime sleepiness Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Snoring Obstructive sleep apnoea causes repeated narrowing or closure of the upper airway during sleep. It can fragment sleep, lower oxygen levels and cause significant daytime symptoms, even when the person is unaware of waking during the night. Why people snore OSA symptoms Sleep […]
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 […]
Deciphering Lung Infections and the Essential Role of Your Lung Infection Specialist
Lung infection guide Deciphering Lung Infections and the Essential Role of Your Lung Infection Specialist Lung infections can affect the airways, lung tissue or the lining around the lungs. Understanding where the infection is, what may be causing it and when specialist assessment is needed can help guide accurate treatment. Airway infections Pneumonia Pleural infection […]
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. […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
