COPD Flare-Ups: What Patients Should Do Next A COPD flare-up, also called an exacerbation, is a sudden worsening of symptoms in someone with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These flare-ups can be frightening, disruptive, and serious. They may also lead to emergency care or hospitalization if not addressed promptly. For patients living with COPD, knowing what…
Who Should Get Screened for Lung Cancer? Lung cancer screening can save lives, but many people who qualify still do not realize they are eligible. Screening is designed to find lung cancer early, before symptoms appear and while treatment may be more effective. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screening with low-dose computed…
RSV in Adults: What High-Risk Patients Need to Know RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is often thought of as a virus that mainly affects infants and young children, but it can also be serious for adults. In adults, RSV usually starts with cold-like symptoms, yet it can become much more dangerous in people who are…
Understanding Pneumonia Recovery Pneumonia is a lung infection that can range from mild to severe. While many patients improve with antibiotics or supportive care, recovery can take weeks. Fatigue and mild cough may persist even after infection resolves. However, prolonged symptoms should not be ignored. What Is a Normal Recovery Timeline? Recovery depends on age,…
What Is Vaping Related Lung Injury? E cigarette or vaping associated lung injury, often called EVALI, is a serious inflammatory lung condition linked to vaping products. While vaping is often marketed as safer than smoking, research shows it can cause significant lung damage. Patients may develop sudden or progressive respiratory symptoms that require medical attention….
How Excess Weight Affects Lung Function Obesity does more than affect metabolism and heart health. It directly impacts how the lungs and chest wall function. Excess weight around the abdomen and chest restricts lung expansion, reducing total lung capacity and making breathing more difficult, especially during activity. Many patients experience shortness of breath that gradually…
Introduction Shortness of breath can be concerning at any time of year, but winter conditions may make symptoms more noticeable. While some breathlessness may be related to cold air or physical exertion, persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. Common Winter Triggers Cold air can cause airway constriction, making breathing feel more difficult. Physical…
Introduction Winter weather can present challenges for lung health, especially for individuals with existing respiratory conditions. Cold air, indoor allergens, and seasonal illnesses can all influence breathing. Understanding how winter affects the lungs can help patients recognize when pulmonary care may be beneficial. How Cold Air Affects Breathing Cold air is typically dry, which can…
Introduction January is often a time when people focus on improving their health. For individuals experiencing breathing issues, lingering cough, or chronic respiratory conditions, it is an especially important month to consider a pulmonary evaluation. Cold weather, seasonal illnesses, and new insurance benefits make January a strategic time to address lung health proactively. Fresh Start…
Understanding the Role of Primary Care Primary care providers manage a wide range of health concerns, including mild respiratory issues. They are often the first point of contact for symptoms such as coughs, colds, mild asthma, or short-term breathing problems. For many patients, primary care is sufficient for initial evaluation and treatment. What a Pulmonologist…
Why Breathing Problems Persist After COVID Many people recover fully from COVID, but some continue to experience lingering symptoms. Shortness of breath is one of the most common ongoing concerns. Even individuals who had mild infections may notice difficulty breathing weeks or months later. COVID can cause inflammation and damage in the lungs, affecting oxygen…
What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder where airflow repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last several seconds and may occur dozens of times per hour. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, caused by airway collapse during sleep. Many people with sleep apnea are…
Call Us (586) 751-8844