Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway condition that can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Treatment typically involves inhaled medication, trigger identification and regular assessment of symptom control. Patients may need additional investigations when symptoms remain uncontrolled.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease causes persistent airflow limitation, often associated with smoking or exposure to harmful particles. Management can include inhaled medicines, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccination and smoking cessation. Treatment aims to improve symptoms and reduce the frequency of exacerbations.
Respiratory infections may affect the upper or lower respiratory system and can cause cough, fever, breathlessness and fatigue. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, examination and selected investigations. Treatment depends on the underlying infection and whether complications are present.
Bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial airways and commonly causes coughing and mucus production. Acute bronchitis frequently follows viral infections, while chronic bronchitis may be associated with COPD. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of symptoms.
Pneumonia is an infection that causes inflammation in the lungs. Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest discomfort and difficulty breathing. Clinical assessment, oxygen measurement and chest imaging may be required. Treatment depends on infection severity and the likely causative organism.
Pulmonary tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that commonly affects the lungs. Symptoms can include prolonged cough, fever, night sweats and weight loss. Diagnosis may require sputum testing and chest imaging. Confirmed active tuberculosis requires a prescribed combination of antimicrobial medicines.
Diagnostic bronchoscopy uses a flexible instrument with a camera to examine the airways. It may help investigate persistent respiratory symptoms, abnormal imaging findings or suspected airway conditions. During the procedure, samples may be collected when clinically indicated.
Chest disease evaluation covers symptoms such as persistent cough, wheezing, breathlessness and chest discomfort. The assessment may include physical examination, lung function testing and imaging. The type of investigation depends on the suspected respiratory or associated medical condition.
Eosinophilia refers to an increased number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. It may be associated with allergic conditions, asthma, infections or other disorders. Evaluation focuses on identifying the cause and deciding whether specific treatment or monitoring is necessary.
A cough lasting longer than eight weeks in adults is generally considered chronic. Possible causes include asthma, upper airway cough syndrome, reflux and other respiratory disorders. Medical assessment helps identify the likely cause and determine whether additional testing is needed.