Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition involving airway inflammation and variable narrowing, which can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Treatment may include inhaled medications, trigger management, breathing assessments and regular monitoring. A pulmonologist develops an individualised management plan to improve symptom control and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a long-term lung condition characterised by persistent airflow limitation and breathing difficulties. Management may involve bronchodilator inhalers, smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccinations and selected oxygen therapies. Treatment aims to improve daily functioning, control symptoms and reduce respiratory exacerbations and hospital admissions.
Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure in which a thin, flexible instrument is passed through the nose or mouth to examine the airways. It may help investigate persistent cough, airway obstruction, infections or abnormal chest imaging. Tissue or fluid samples may be collected when clinically indicated.
Endobronchial ultrasound combines bronchoscopy with ultrasound imaging to examine structures surrounding the airways. It is particularly useful for evaluating enlarged lymph nodes and selected abnormalities within the chest. EBUS-guided needle sampling may help diagnose conditions such as lung cancer, sarcoidosis or infections without requiring more invasive surgery.
Interstitial lung disease refers to a group of conditions affecting lung tissue and, in some cases, causing inflammation or progressive scarring. Symptoms often include persistent dry cough and exertional breathlessness. Assessment may involve high-resolution CT imaging, pulmonary function tests and additional investigations to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Pulmonary function testing measures different aspects of lung performance, including airflow, lung volumes and gas transfer. These investigations help assess conditions such as asthma, COPD and interstitial lung disease. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history and examination findings to support diagnosis and monitor changes in respiratory function.
Spirometry is a commonly used breathing test that measures how much air a person can exhale and how quickly it can be expelled. It is useful in evaluating airflow obstruction and monitoring certain respiratory diseases. Testing may be performed before and after bronchodilator medication to assess changes in airflow.
Pulmonary tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. Diagnosis may require sputum investigations, molecular testing and chest imaging. Treatment involves an appropriate combination of anti-tuberculosis medications for a prescribed duration, with careful monitoring of treatment response, adherence and possible adverse effects.
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation of the air sacs within the lungs. Symptoms may include fever, cough, breathing difficulty and chest discomfort. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may involve antibiotics when indicated, supportive care, oxygen supplementation or hospital management for serious infections.
Bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes and commonly causes coughing and mucus production. Acute bronchitis is frequently associated with viral infections, while persistent symptoms may require investigation for other respiratory conditions. Management focuses on the underlying cause, appropriate symptom relief and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use.
Pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid accumulates between the layers surrounding the lungs. It may cause breathlessness, chest discomfort or cough. Evaluation can involve chest imaging and pleural fluid analysis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, drainage or other specialist procedures.
Pleural aspiration is a procedure used to remove fluid from the pleural space for diagnostic testing or symptom relief. Ultrasound guidance may be used to improve procedural accuracy and safety. The collected fluid can be analysed to investigate causes such as infection, inflammation, malignancy or systemic disease.
Sleep apnoea is a condition characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. Common symptoms include loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses, morning headaches and excessive daytime sleepiness. Evaluation may involve sleep studies and respiratory assessment. Treatment options can include positive airway pressure therapy, lifestyle changes or other appropriate interventions.
A lung biopsy involves obtaining a small tissue sample to investigate selected abnormalities detected during imaging or other examinations. Sampling techniques may include bronchoscopy-guided procedures or image-guided needle biopsy. The approach depends on the location of the abnormality, diagnostic requirements and individual procedural risks.
Chronic cough in adults generally refers to coughing lasting more than eight weeks. Potential causes include asthma, upper airway cough syndrome, gastro-oesophageal reflux, medication effects and other respiratory diseases. Assessment may involve clinical examination, chest imaging and breathing tests to identify and appropriately manage the underlying cause.
Smoking cessation support helps patients reduce nicotine dependence and lower their risk of smoking-related respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Treatment may include behavioural counselling, assessment of dependence and evidence-based cessation medication when appropriate. Continued follow-up can help address withdrawal symptoms and support long-term tobacco abstinence.