Pulmonology

Bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of the lungs, including the bronchi, the main pathways into the lungs. This procedure is performed using a bronchoscope, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera. It helps to examine symptoms such as a persistent cough, infection, or abnormal chest X-ray results. Biopsy is done to collect tissue samples for testing, especially when lung cancer is suspected. Treatment involves the removal of blockages, such as a foreign body or mucus, from the airways. It is Performed under local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia. The bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and guided down the throat into the lungs. After the procedure, patients may experience a sore throat, cough, or hoarseness.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms are: Persistent cough lasting more than three weeks Chest pain Coughing up blood Fatigue Fever and night sweats weight loss Treated with a course of antibiotics taken for 6 to 9 months. Prevention: Vaccination with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine. Ensuring proper ventilation and wearing masks in high-risk areas.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. Symptoms are - Shortness of breath - Wheezing - Chest tightness - Coughing, especially at night or early morning It is Triggered by - Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander) - Air pollutants - Respiratory infections - Physical activity - Cold air Medications include Inhalers (bronchodilators and corticosteroids) to control symptoms.

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus. Caused by - Bacterial infections (e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae) - Viral infections (e.g., influenza, COVID-19) - Fungal infections Symptoms are: - Chest pain - Cough with phlegm - Fever, sweating, and chills - Shortness of breath - Fatigue Treated with antibiotics (for bacterial pneumonia), antiviral drugs, or antifungal medications. - Supportive care includes rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms. Lung Infections Lung infections are caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Common Types are - Bronchitis - Pneumonia - Tuberculosis Symptoms include: - Persistent cough - Shortness of breath - Fever and chills - Chest discomfort - Fatigue Treatment depends on the type of infection and may include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and supportive care.

Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs. It can be acute or chronic. Acute Bronchitis: Often caused by viral infections. Symptoms are Cough with mucus, chest discomfort, fatigue, mild fever. Chronic Bronchitis: A form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms include Persistent cough with mucus, shortness of breath, frequent respiratory infections. Treatment involves Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Inhalers or other medications to open airways and reduce inflammation for chronic cases.

COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Symptoms are Persistent cough with mucus Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities Wheezing Chest tightness Frequent respiratory infections Caused by Long-term exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust. It can be managed by: Quitting smoking Medications like Bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, and antibiotics for infections. Pulmonary rehabilitation Oxygen therapy We do Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) that measures how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange. Types of PFTs: Spirometry: Measures the amount (volume) and speed (flow) of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. Lung Volume Measurement: Assesses the amount of air in the lungs after a deep inhalation. Diffusion Capacity Test: Evaluates how well oxygen and other gases pass from the lungs into the blood. Used to diagnose respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases effectively.