Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway condition that causes wheezing, coughing, breathlessness and chest tightness. Management involves identifying triggers, evaluating lung function and selecting suitable medications, including inhaled therapies. Regular follow-up helps assess symptom control, review inhaler technique and reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations.
COPD is a long-term respiratory condition associated with persistent airflow limitation and difficulty breathing. Treatment may include bronchodilator medications, smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccination and oxygen therapy when indicated. Assessment through spirometry and regular clinical review helps guide treatment and reduce respiratory complications.
Diagnostic bronchoscopy uses a thin, flexible instrument to examine the airways and investigate respiratory abnormalities. It may be recommended for persistent cough, unexplained lung infections, airway obstruction or abnormal chest imaging. The procedure can also allow collection of fluid or tissue samples for laboratory examination.
Endobronchial ultrasound combines bronchoscopy with ultrasound imaging to assess structures near the airways. EBUS-guided sampling may help investigate enlarged chest lymph nodes and conditions such as lung cancer, sarcoidosis or selected infections. The need for this procedure depends on imaging results and clinical assessment.
Medical thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs. It may help investigate unexplained pleural effusions or pleural abnormalities and allows selected tissue samples to be collected. The procedure is performed only after appropriate assessment of its benefits and risks.
Interstitial lung disease includes conditions that affect the supporting tissues of the lungs, sometimes causing inflammation or scarring. Symptoms may include progressive breathlessness and a persistent dry cough. Diagnosis commonly requires lung function testing, high-resolution CT imaging and specialist evaluation to determine appropriate management.
Bronchiectasis involves permanent widening of the airways, often associated with recurrent infections and persistent mucus production. Management may include airway clearance techniques, treatment of bacterial infections, vaccination and investigations for underlying causes. Regular respiratory follow-up can help reduce exacerbations and maintain lung function.
Pulmonary tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Diagnosis may involve sputum testing, molecular investigations and chest imaging. Treatment generally requires a prescribed combination of anti-tuberculosis medicines, with regular monitoring for treatment response, adherence and possible medication-related adverse effects.
Pneumonia is an infection affecting lung tissue that may cause fever, cough, chest discomfort and breathing difficulties. Treatment depends on the underlying organism, severity and medical history. Management may include appropriate antimicrobial medication, supportive treatment, oxygen supplementation or hospital care for severe cases.
Pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid accumulates around the lungs. Patients may experience breathlessness, chest pain or cough. Evaluation may involve ultrasound, chest imaging and fluid analysis. Management focuses on identifying the cause and may include medication or drainage procedures when clinically appropriate.
Sleep apnoea causes repeated episodes of reduced or interrupted breathing during sleep. Symptoms can include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness and witnessed breathing pauses. Assessment may include a sleep study and respiratory examination. Treatment can involve positive airway pressure therapy, lifestyle measures or other interventions.
Pulmonary function tests assess airflow, lung capacity and other aspects of respiratory function. These investigations help diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, COPD and interstitial lung disease. Results are interpreted alongside medical history, symptoms and examination findings to guide clinical decisions.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immune-related lung condition caused by exposure to certain inhaled environmental substances. Symptoms may include cough, breathlessness and fatigue. Management focuses on identifying and avoiding the triggering exposure, assessing lung inflammation and considering medication when necessary.
Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the lungs and other organs, sometimes producing enlarged lymph nodes and respiratory symptoms. Evaluation may involve chest imaging, pulmonary function tests and selected tissue investigations. Treatment depends on organ involvement, symptom severity and disease progression.
Pulmonary hypertension refers to increased blood pressure within the pulmonary circulation. Symptoms may include unexplained breathlessness, fatigue, chest discomfort or reduced exercise capacity. Investigation can involve echocardiography, lung function assessment and further specialist tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and specific disease classification.
Respiratory allergies and chronic cough may be associated with asthma, environmental exposures, upper airway disorders or other medical conditions. Evaluation includes reviewing symptoms, triggers and relevant investigations. Treatment is directed at the identified cause and may involve inhaled medicines, allergy management or other targeted therapies.