Every year, World No Tobacco Day reminds us of the enormous health burden caused by tobacco. Yet, despite decades of awareness campaigns, millions of people continue to smoke, vape, or use smokeless tobacco products, often believing that serious health problems are years away. As chest physicians, we frequently meet patients who never expected their occasional…
Read MoreBeing diagnosed with lung fibrosis can feel overwhelming, especially when doctors recommend medications like steroids. Many patients become worried after hearing terms such as “steroids,” “prednisolone,” or “cortisone,” and often ask: “Why do I need steroids for lung fibrosis?”“Are steroids always necessary?”“Will steroids cure the disease?” These are important questions. Understanding why steroids are used—and…
Read MoreMany people associate asthma with wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. However, not every type of asthma follows this familiar pattern. Some individuals experience an ongoing cough without any obvious breathing problems. This condition is known as cough variant asthma and is often overlooked because its symptoms can resemble allergies, throat irritation, or a lingering…
Read MoreHantavirus is a rare but potentially serious viral infection that can affect the lungs and, in some cases, the kidneys. Most people become infected after coming into contact with rodents or areas contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Although uncommon, hantavirus infections can become life-threatening if not recognized early. At the moment, there is…
Read MoreEid ul Adha is one of the most cherished celebrations in Pakistan, bringing families together for prayer, Qurbani, meals, and gatherings. While the festive atmosphere is joyful, patients suffering from chronic lung diseases often notice worsening breathing symptoms during Eid because of increased smoke exposure, dust, animal handling, outdoor pollution, and physical exhaustion. For patients…
Read MorePulmonary fibrosis is a condition that often raises many concerns and misconceptions among patients and their families. Understanding the disease can help reduce anxiety and support better decision-making. Below are clear, simple answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Is lung fibrosis the same as lung cancer? No, these are completely different conditions.…
Read MorePregnancy is a time of excitement—but it can also bring concerns, especially for women living with asthma. A common question many patients ask is: “Is asthma dangerous during pregnancy—for me or my baby?” The reassuring answer is: most women with asthma have normal, healthy pregnancies—especially when their asthma is well controlled. Can Asthma Affect Pregnancy?…
Read MoreHot weather can be uncomfortable for anyone, but for people living with lung diseases, extreme heat can sometimes become dangerous. Patients with asthma, COPD, lung fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and other chronic respiratory conditions often notice worsening breathlessness, fatigue, cough, or chest discomfort during very hot and humid days. As temperatures continue to rise in many parts…
Read MoreMany people believe asthma only affects children. Because of this, adults who develop wheezing, cough, or breathlessness are often surprised when they are diagnosed with asthma later in life. One of the most common questions patients ask is: “How can I suddenly develop asthma as an adult when I never had it before?” The answer…
Read MoreWorld Asthma Day 2026 will be observed on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, as part of a global effort to improve awareness about asthma and promote better respiratory health. Organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), this annual event highlights the importance of early diagnosis, proper treatment, and improving access to asthma care worldwide. Theme…
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