If you need to receive the flu vaccine please call us to set up a time.

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Fibrosis means scarring of the lung tissue. Lung fibrosis is a group of conditions that cause serious, chronic and lifelong damage of the lungs, which leads to permanent damage to the lung tissues. This disease makes the lungs unable to transfer oxygen to the blood and hence decreases the level of oxygen in the body. Lung fibrosis can be a progressive disease which means it may worsen with the passage of time.

Does lung fibrosis occur in one lung or both?

Fibrosis effects both lungs but the severity of the involvement can vary with one lung being affected more than the other.

What causes Lung Fibrosis?

Fibrosis is caused by diseases which are chronic leading to scarring of the lung tissue. Medications, radiation, environmental exposures, autoimmune diseases, and occupational exposures all may cause or contribute to lung fibrosis.

Is fibrosis curable?

Unfortunately, lung fibrosis is not a curable illness but one that can be managed. The damage is permanent hence it is critically important to stop its progression or worsening.

Will I be oxygen dependent if I have been diagnosed with lung fibrosis?

Oxygen is given to patients with lung disorders in which their lungs are not able to provide adequate levels of oxygen to the body. Lung fibrosis is one such disease.  Eventually patients who are suffering from severe lung fibrosis require supplemental oxygen. The use of oxygen when needed is part of the management of the disease.

Is fibrosis and COPD same?

No, Lung fibrosis and COPD (chronic obstructed pulmonary disease) are not the same. However, both diseases are chronic and progressively worsen over a period of time and symptoms are similar, however,  they effect the lungs differently. Both require long term management by a chest specialist.

Lung fibrosis causes damage to the lung tissue making lungs become stiff. COPD is the damage to the airways and air sacs.

Is fibrosis reversible?

No, fibrosis is an irreversible and permanent damage to lung tissue.

Can Fibrosis be prevented?

While there is no reversal treatment yet developed for fibrosis, it is important to protect oneself from agents and toxic materials that promote lung fibrosis. Patients who have lung fibrosis, should take precautions by getting vaccinated for Flu, Pneumonia and Covid-19.

Does COVID-19 pneumonia always lead to fibrosis?

Yes, an undesired sequela of Covid-19 is Lung Fibrosis. However, this can be prevented if the treatment is done adequately and in a timely manner.

Can pneumonia other than Covid Pneumonia cause Lung Fibrosis?

Acute pneumonia if treated appropriately and adequately does not lead to lung fibrosis. However, a known complication of pneumonia is called ARDS, which leads to severe lung injury and can cause permanent damage to the lungs and lead to a condition similar to lung fibrosis.

Can I live a normal life if I have lung fibrosis?

Lung fibrosis is a debilitating disease, which can affect one’s quality of life with the passing of time. However, if it is well managed under the care of a lung specialist familiar with the management of the disease and its complications, a patient may lead a near normal life with normal activities of daily living. Patients suffering from fibrosis requires support therapy from friends, family and other health care providers. In most situations, lifestyle modifications and compliance with the treatment lead to better outcomes and greater safety and comfort for the patient.

Should you or anyone you know need additional information on lung fibrosis or any other lung or lung related disease, please contact The Chest Clinic-Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Dr. Javed Husain is the lead pulmonologist & critical care intensivist at The Chest Clinic in Karachi. Dr. Javed Husain is a US trained and United States Board Certified specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience dealing with patients with bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, lung infections, lung cancers and all types of chest and lung diseases. Dr. Javed is licensed to practice as a chest specialist both in the United States as well as in Pakistan. If you or anyone you know needs help to quit smoking within a safe and skilled environment, please call The Chest Clinic for an appointment to see Dr. Javed Husain. Both in person and online consultations are possible by calling +92301 8479066 or via our website at www.thechestclinic.pk to set up an appointment. At The Chest Clinic we understand the value of expert, timely, ethical, compassionate care and strive to provide the highest quality care to every patient, every single time

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As the child grows the severity of the symptoms and the frequency of the attack may vary or improve over time if one is complaint with their treatment. But Asthma doesn’t go away. It can be triggered leading to mild to severe attack in adult life.

Use inhalers only when there is acute attack.

Asthma is a chronic illness, which means its treatment is long term. There are different types of inhalers, rescue inhaler which is used during acute attack but others are maintenance inhalers which are required to be continue, even if there are not symptoms.

Once inhalers are prescribed, you become dependent on inhalers.

One doesn’t become dependent on inhalers, but if the asthma is not controlled and readjustment is required in your regimen. If you develop sign and symptoms despite of taking inhalers, you need to visit your pulmonologist for assessment of your condition.

Asthma medicines lose their potency and efficacy with time.

Medicines are only non-efficacious if they are taken in wrong doses and if the techniques of the inhalers is incorrect. Dosage, frequency an duration of medications are decided by the pulmonologist according to the severity of Asthma.

Asthma never cause permanent damage to the airways and lungs.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory illness of the airways, which means without or with in adequate treatment the inner lining of your airways will undergo permanent remodeling leading to permanent narrowing of your airways.

Asthmatic patient should never exercise.

People suffering from Asthma are encouraged to live a regular life styles with exercise as a part of their routine life. Exercise can be a trigger in some patients, take advice from a pulmonologist and be active as much as it’s tolerated.

 If you don’t have wheeze, you don’t have Asthma.

Wheezing is heard through stethoscope and in case of every severe cases it’s audible without using a stethoscope. Wheeze is one of the most commonest and suggestive symptom for asthma. But there are different forms of Asthma in which wheezing is not a feature. It’s advisable to visit a pulmonologist if you are suffering from any chest relate symptoms and let the expert be the one to make a diagnosis.

Asthmatic patients cannot take milk.

No scientific proof have been established that drinking milk increases mucous production in Asthmatic patient which leads to development of acute attack. Unless someone has been diagnosed with allergic to milk or milk related products, patient s with asthma can consume milk.

Asthmatic patient cannot get vaccinated for Flu, Pneumonia or Covid-19.

Asthmatic patients are more prone for infections and even mild infection like common cold can triggers acute attack. Hence it is very important for asthmatic patient to keep them self-protected and get vaccination for Flu, pneumonia and Covid-19.

The post Myths Related to Asthma appeared first on The Chest Clinic Karachi.

Pneumococcal vaccine provides immunity against some strains of a bacteria called Streptococcus Pneumonia which can cause a wide range of infection. It can cause mild symptoms like earache, cough, severe chest infection, infection of the coatings of the brain known as meningitis and diseases involving other body systems. The infection caused by streptococcus can be treated with appropriate antibiotics. The infection can easily spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing and close contact.

There two vaccines available for Pneumococcal infections

Prevnar 13: given as a single dose, given in adults 18 years and older, for children and young adult kindly follow your local immunization program.

PPSV-23:   This vaccine is given as a single dose to adults 64 year and older. In adults 19 through 64 years with certain medical condition. A second dose in this category can be give as per physician orders. Additional doses may be given for patients with certain chronic medical conditions.

Safety instruction: Both pneumococcal vaccines should not be administered together at same time. Follow the guidelines provide to you by your doctor.

If I have taken Pneumoccocal vaccine, can I still develop Pneumonia?

Yes, both Prevnar 13 and PPSV23 provides protection against certain strains of Streptococcus Pneumonia, which are common in our community. There are however many others microorganism which can cause Pneumonia in an individual at any stage of life.

Should you or anyone you know need additional information please contact The Chest Clinic-Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Dr. Javed Husain is the lead pulmonologist & critical care intensivist at The Chest Clinic in Karachi. Dr. Javed Husain is a US trained and United States Board Certified specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience dealing with patients with bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, lung infections, lung cancers and all types of chest and lung diseases. Dr. Javed is licensed to practice as a chest specialist both in the United States as well as in Pakistan. If you or anyone you know needs help to quit smoking within a safe and skilled environment, please call The Chest Clinic for an appointment to see Dr. Javed Husain. Both in person and online consultations are possible by calling +92301 8479066 or via our website at www.thechestclinic.pk to set up an appointment. At The Chest Clinic we understand the value of expert, timely, ethical, compassionate care and strive to provide the highest quality care to every patient, every single time.

The post Pneumococcal Vaccine – Why is it Important for Patients With Lung Disease ? appeared first on The Chest Clinic Karachi.

Yes, Flu and Pneumococcal vaccine can be taken on same day. However, do not proceed without the advice from your doctor.

Can I take Flu and Covid vaccine on same day?

Yes, Flu and Covid vaccine can be taken on same day. However, you must not proceed without the advice from your doctor.

I have Asthma, would vaccination make me ill?

No, vaccination does not cause any flare of asthma Studies have not shown that vaccines cause an increased risk of infection in asthmatic patients. Vaccines are hence considered safe for patients with asthma.

I was treated for Pneumonia, do I still need to get vaccinated for Flu, Pneumonia or Covid-19?

Pneumonia is infection of air sacs of the lungs which can be caused by several types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This infection leads to inflammatory process in the lungs.

Vaccine provides immunity to certain bacteria and viruses, which are common in our community. Hence if you have suffered from pneumonia and are treated with antibiotics, you might have recovered from the acute illness itself yet you may still be prone to acquire a new infection. It is advised to patients be vaccinated with or not they have had a prior history of pneumonia or other lung infections.

Is vaccination with Flu, Pneumococcal and Covid-19 safe during pregnancy?

Yes, the CDC and WHO have approved the administration of these vaccines during pregnancy.  However, as with the usage of all medications during pregnancy, it is advisable to get your OB/GYN approval before proceeding with any new treatment.

 The Influenza or Flu vaccine:

Flu is caused by a virus called Influenza. The infection from this virus leads to development of flu like symptoms to severe pneumonia in some individuals.

Who can take the vaccine?

It is recommended to get annual influenza vaccinations from October till January. Everyone aged 6 month or older, especially for people at high risk, even pregnant women should her vaccinated.

Side effects

Side effects from the influenza vaccine are very uncommon and include local pain at the injection site, fever and body aches that resolves in a couple of days.

If I repeat the shot of vaccine, does it provide me with better immunity?

No studies have as yet found any evidence that repeating flu shot during same year, like a booster, provides any added benefit. A single shot of the Flu vaccine is all that is needed annually.

Does taking a flu shot increase the  risk of having infection from Covid-19?

There is no scientific data to prove if there is any increased risk of developing Covid-19 infection after taking Flu vaccine.

What is the difference between Influenza and H. Influenzae ?

Influenza is a virus while H. Influenzae (Hemophilus influenza) is a of bacteria. Both can cause serious disease but are treated differently.

Should you or anyone you know need additional information please contact The Chest Clinic-Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Dr. Javed Husain is the lead pulmonologist & critical care intensivist at The Chest Clinic in Karachi. Dr. Javed Husain is a US trained and United States Board Certified specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience dealing with patients with bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, lung infections, lung cancers and all types of chest and lung diseases. Dr. Javed is licensed to practice as a chest specialist both in the United States as well as in Pakistan. If you or anyone you know needs help to quit smoking within a safe and skilled environment, please call The Chest Clinic for an appointment to see Dr. Javed Husain. Both in person and online consultations are possible by calling +92301 8479066 or via our website at www.thechestclinic.pk to set up an appointment. At The Chest Clinic we understand the value of expert, timely, ethical, compassionate care and strive to provide the highest quality care to every patient, every single time.

The post The Flu Vaccine & Pneumococcal Vaccine in Patients With Lung Diseases appeared first on The Chest Clinic Karachi.

There is no contraindication for a pregnant woman ore a nursing mother to receive vaccination unless any specific contraindication has been discussed by their OB/GYN. The World Health Organization or WHO and the Centers for disease control or CDC have considered vaccines to be safe for pregnant and lactating mothers.

Vaccination during acute illness.

Anyone suffering from any acute or active illness should avoid getting any kind of vaccination.

If you are suffering from symptoms of fever, cough, flu, breathlessness, wheezing, vomiting and /or loose motion, consult your doctor before proceeding for vaccination.

Once you are symptom free, its safe for you to proceed with vaccination.

Chronic illness and vaccination

Those suffering from certain chronic illness such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, lung diseases, malignancy etc. are more prone to develop infection and related complications.  Hence, such patients should be receiving vaccine to build up their immunity against common infections.

Safety information

Do not proceed with any vaccination without consultation from a doctor.

If you have experienced an allergic reaction to any other vaccine previously, you must inform your doctor before proceeding with any other vaccine.

Patient who are immunosuppressed or taking immunosuppressants should be aware their bodies response to vaccine may vary and they might have a reduced antibody response.

After taking a vaccine there are some common side effects, which you may experience. Local effects include pain, swelling, redness and limitation of movement of the injected arm for some time. In addition, you may experience systemic side effects that may be transient or short lived and may include headache, light headedness, fatigue, mild fever, chills, and nausea.

Severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis is one of the most concerning side effects. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include rash, severe itching all over the body, swelling of face, lips and throat which lead to difficulty in breathing and choking sensation, low blood pressure and in rare case altered level of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires urgent medical attention.

Should you or anyone you know need additional information please contact The Chest Clinic-Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Dr. Javed Husain is the lead pulmonologist & critical care intensivist at The Chest Clinic in Karachi. Dr. Javed Husain is a US trained and United States Board Certified specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience dealing with patients with bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, lung infections, lung cancers and all types of chest and lung diseases. Dr. Javed is licensed to practice as a chest specialist both in the United States as well as in Pakistan. If you or anyone you know needs help to quit smoking within a safe and skilled environment, please call The Chest Clinic for an appointment to see Dr. Javed Husain. Both in person and online consultations are possible by calling +92301 8479066 or via our website at www.thechestclinic.pk to set up an appointment. At The Chest Clinic we understand the value of expert, timely, ethical, compassionate care and strive to provide the highest quality care to every patient, every single time.

The post Vaccinating Under Special Circumstances, Such as Pregnancy, Nursing or While Recovering From Illness appeared first on The Chest Clinic Karachi.

General considerations

Do I need to be vaccinated even if the vaccines do not provide complete protection from developing infections such as pneumonia?

Vaccines provide immunity from the common viruses and bacteria present in our community. These organisms infect individuals causing illness from simple flu like syndromes to severe pneumonia that can result in hospitalization and death. There are many other viruses and bacteria against which vaccines have not yet been developed. Fungus can also cause chest infections. Infections caused by these microorganisms are treated with appropriate medications.  The more protected an individual is from varied sources of infections the better their chances of being able to live a healthy life.

 Are there any special considerations for patients on Immunosuppressants considering vaccination?

Patients on immunosuppressant like steroids and other immune modulating agents are at higher risk of developing infections. Such individuals need the most protection and require vaccinated. If you are on or anticipate the possible need for such medication, you should discuss this with your doctor. Your doctor will guide you regarding the most appropriate vaccinated and the timing that is ideally suited for you to be vaccinated.

Immunosuppressive illness and vaccination.

Illnesses decrease your body’s immunity means your defense against infection is weakness. Immune-suppressed individuals easily get infections and even a mild flu can lead to serious complications. Such individuals should get vaccinated to strengthen their body’s defense system. One must keep in mind that the antibody response might not be the same in immune suppressed individuals as for others who may have a normal immune system. Do consult your primary lung specialist before proceeding for vaccination.

Should you or anyone you know have additional questions, please contact us at The Chest Clinic- Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Our Chief Pulmonologist Dr. Javed Husain is a United States trained, triple US board certified chest specialist, certified in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine. Dr. Javed Husain has well over twenty years of experience treating a diverse array of chest diseases. He is licensed to practice medicine in both the United States and in Pakistan. Consultations with Dr. Javed Husain are available both in person and online. You can call or WhatsApp a request for an appointment at +92 301 847 9066.

We value the trust our patients place in us and our team at The Chest Clinic- Dr. Javed Husain & Associates aims to provide the best possible, ethical, timely, compassionate and up to date care for every single patient.

The post Vaccination for Patients Suffering From Lung Diseases appeared first on The Chest Clinic Karachi.

Do Vaccines for diseases provide complete protection from developing Influenza & Pneumonia?

Vaccines provide significant protection from most commonly present respiratory viruses (Influenza A & B) and bacteria (Pneumococcus) in our community which infect individuals causing illnesses from simple flu like syndromes to severe Pneumonia and respiratory failure. However, there are many other viruses, bacteria and fungi that can also cause infections that are not covered by these vaccines. Vaccines protective against diseases reduce the incidence and severity of infections caused by diseases such as Influenza or the seasonal flu and pneumococcal pneumonia.

Immunosuppressive medications, illnesses and vaccinations.

Patients on immunosuppressive medications like steroids and other diseases that impact and alter the functioning of the immune system as well as those with chronic illnesses like diabetes, chronic kidney and liver diseases, amongst others, are at a much higher risk of developing severe infections. Yearly Influenza vaccine and once in a lifetime Pneumococcal vaccine (Prevenaar 13) are strongly recommended for such high-risk patients. You should discuss with your chest specialist or your general physician when it might be most appropriate for you to be vaccinated.

Vaccination in pregnant and lactating mothers.

There is no contraindication for a pregnant women or nursing mothers to receive vaccination unless any specific reasons provided to you by your physician. The WHO and CDC have considered Covid vaccines to be safe for pregnant and lactating mothers. Often the risk to the unborn or new-born child is significantly greater from infection than the minimal possible risk of side effects of vaccination.

Vaccination during acute illness.

Anyone suffering from any acute or active illness should avoid getting any kind of vaccination. If you are suffering from symptoms of fever, cough, flu, breathlessness, wheezing, vomiting and /or loose motions, consult your doctor before proceeding for vaccination. Once you are symptom free, it is safe for you to proceed with vaccination. Sometimes certain vaccines covering different diseases can be given to a patient at the same time. Your doctor will advise you whether it is safe to receive multiple types of vaccination at the same time or whether it is advisable for you to wait and receive one vaccination at a time.

Safety information:

If you suffer from any serious illness, is important you speak to your doctor about any vaccinations so that you can be alerted to any special precaution you may need to take.

If you have experienced an allergic reaction to any other vaccine in the past, discuss this history of a reaction with your doctor before proceeding with vaccination.

Patients who are immunosuppressed or taking immunosuppressants such as steroids or other immune modulating agents should be aware that their body’s response to vaccine may be altered and such individuals may have a reduced response. Your doctor will advise you if any booster vaccination is recommended to give you maximal protection.

After taking the vaccine there are some common side effects which you may experience. Local effects include pain, swelling, redness and limitation of movement of the injected arm for some time, and symptoms like headache, light headedness, fatigue, mild fever, chills, and nausea may occur. These are self-limiting and only symptomatic treatment like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen may be required.

Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare. Symptoms of a severe reaction or anaphylaxis includes rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips and throat which may lead to difficulty in breathing and a choking sensation and low blood pressure.  If any of the above symptoms are developing, you must not wait at home and proceed to seek immediate medical assistance.

Can I take Flu and pneumococcal vaccine on same day?

Yes, Flu and Pneumococcal vaccine can be taken on same day. However, you should not proceed in doing so without the advice from your doctor. Covid vaccinations are not given the same day as other vaccines.

I have Asthma, would vaccination make me ill?

No, there is no evidence that vaccines will cause an exacerbation of asthma

I had Pneumonia or Covid, do I still need to get vaccinated for Flu, Pneumonia or Covid-19?

Once a person has suffered from pneumonia, Flu or Covid you may still get a recurrence of this infection.   Vaccines will reduce the chances of recurrence or repeat infections. In many cases as is the case with Covid-19 vaccines, vaccination cannot reduce the risk of infection to zero but it can and does make it highly likely that a patient who has been vaccinated will suffer milder symptoms and not have to face hospitalization.

Is vaccination with Flu, Pneumococcal and Covid-19 safe during pregnancy?

Yes, CDC and WHO have approved the administration of these vaccines during pregnancy.  But it is advisable to get your OB/GYN approval before proceeding with any new treatment. Patients who are considering getting pregnant are also advised to proceed with vaccination.

INFORMATION SPECIFIC FOR THE INFLUENZA OR FLU VACCINE:

Flu is an infection caused by a virus called Influenza (A & B). The infection from this virus leads to mild symptoms of fever, cough and body aches to more severe symptoms causing pneumonia and requiring hospitalization and even death. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of getting Influenza.

Who can take the vaccine?

It is recommended to get annual influenza vaccinations for everyone aged 6 month or older, especially for people at high risk.  Flu vaccine is even recommended for pregnant women. The timing of the flu vaccine is from October to February each year when new strains have been identified. The annual vaccine is manufactured yearly and includes protection against those strains of the flu virus that are most likely to cause infections that year. Patients who are considered high risk for being affected by Influenza and suffering serious complications from it include patients with chronic asthma, COPD, Diabetes Mellitus, chronic kidney, liver and heart disease amongst other less common diseases.

Potential common side effects of vaccines

Side effects of vaccine are very uncommon and include local pain at the injection site, fever and body aches that resolves in a couple of days. In very rare instances more serious reactions can occur. On balance the benefits of receiving vaccines far outweigh the risk of vaccination.

Some vaccines such as the Covid-19 vaccine are to be administered in two doses, does taking a second dose of the flu vaccine provide better immunity?

Studies have not found any evidence that repeating the flu shot during same “season”, which can be thought of as the same year provides any added benefit. Influenza or flu vaccines are considered effective as single doses taken on an annual basis.

If I take Flu shot, does it reduce or increase the risk of having infection from Covid-19?

There is no scientific data to prove if there is any increased or decreased risk of developing Covid-19 infection after taking Flu vaccine. The flu vaccine does not protect against Covid 19 infection. This risk of infection with Covid -19 can only be reduced by receiving the Covid-19 vaccine

INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO THE PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE:

Pneumococcal vaccine provides protection against some strains of a bacteria called Streptococcus Pneumonia which is the commonest cause for bacterial pneumonia. The infection spreads from person to person through coughing, sneezing and close contact.

There two vaccines available for Pneumococcal infection are:

Prevnar 13: is given as a single dose, to adults 18 years and older. For children and adolescents follow the local immunization program of the country.

PPSV-23:  is given as a single dose to adults 65 years; and older. In adults 19 through 64 years with chronic medical conditions like chronic asthma, COPD, lung fibrosis, diabetes, kidney failure, liver diseases and heart diseases, a second dose is recommended after 5 years of the first vaccine.

Both vaccines (Prevenaar 13 and PPSV23) can be administered with a gap of one year.

Side Effects:

Side effects of vaccine are very uncommon and include local pain at the injection site, fever and body aches that resolves in a couple of days.

If I have taken Pneumoccocal vaccine, can I still develop Pneumonia?

Yes. Both Prevnar 13 and PPSV 23 provide protection against common strains of Streptococcus Pneumonia, which is the most common cause of pneumonia. However, there are many others microorganisms which can cause Pneumonia to an individual at any stage of life.

INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO THE COVID-19 VACCINE IN PAKISTAN

There are many vaccines against Covid-19. Each vaccine provide immunity by generating antibodies against Covid-19 virus. All persons above the age of 18 years are recommended to get vaccine against Covid-19 by the government of Pakistan

Vaccine available in Pakistan are CanSino, Sinopharm, Sinovac, AstraZeneca and Sputnik. These vaccines are available in different hospital. Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have recently become available through the COVAX initiative

For latest information go to www.covid.gov.pk

Why should I get vaccinated, if I can get infection from Covid-19 despite vaccination?

The purpose of the Covid-19 vaccination is to provide protection against the infection and related complications including hospitalization and death. It is not a treatment but a prevention nor reduction of risk. Vaccination reduces the chances of developing severe infection and reduces the chances of hospitalization.

 I had Covid infection how soon can I take the vaccine?

As soon as you have regained complete recovery from your illness, you can get your vaccine. Your doctor will provide your clearance to proceed with vaccination.

I have Covid antibodies should I still need vaccination?

If you have antibodies against Covid-19 virus, it means your body have developed immunity from a prior infection. It is still recommended to get Covid vaccination.

Should I wait for 3 months after having Covid infection to be vaccinated?

There is no data to prove how long a person is to wait after having Covid-19. It is recommended to get vaccinated as soon as a person recovers from the illness.

I developed Covid infection after my first jab of the Covid-19 vaccine, when can I take my second jab and do I still need to be vaccinated?

Post infection, its recommended to get vaccination as soon as you have regained recovery. Yes, you do require completion of your course of vaccination to achieve optimal immunity.

I was not able to get my second jab of Covid vaccine on recommended date, when do I take it?

Each brand of vaccine has their own protocol, your health care provider will be able to guide you this regards. But it is generally recommended to not delay your second shot for not more then 4-6weeks.

Do I still need to take precautions after having vaccinated?

Yes, standard precaution must be continued, handwashing, wearing mask, social distancing and avoiding crowds.

Is there any vaccine superior to the other, should I wait for the better one?

All the vaccine available have been approved by the WHO. Their efficacy or effectiveness does vary, but having been vaccinated rather than waiting for the “best” vaccine is the far safer thing to do.

Should I take a blood thinner between the two jabs?

There is no scientific approach to take any blood thinners between two shots of Covid-19.

Is is true that people taking blood thinners cannot take the Covid-19 vaccine?

No, this is incorrect. No data supports that use to any blood thinners should prevent people from taking Covid-19 vaccine. The only side effect is development of localized bruising or a hematoma (collection of blood under the skin) at the injection site. This  gets better on its own in a few days and should be of no consequence. If you still have concerns about this, you can reach your doctor for their advice on this.

How long does the immunity last after Covid vaccination?

It is not certain what exact duration of protection is provided by current Covid-19 vaccination. Studies to evaluate this are under progress. In time the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) will issue recommendations should further booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine be needed.

Vaccination for common but serious diseases is the sensible and right thing to do to protect yourself and your loved ones from unnecessary ill health and hospitalizations. Medical data supports the opinion that  Influenza vaccine, Pneumococccal vaccine and the Covid 19 vaccination provide decreased risk from serious complications related to these infections and re-infections from these diseases.

Should you or anyone you know require treatment for diseases of the chest and lung, or should you require advice and information regarding vaccines used in the maintenance of health specific to patients suffering from lung diseases, please contact The Chest Clinic-Dr. Javed Husain & Associates. Dr. Javed Husain is the lead pulmonologist & critical care intensivist at The Chest Clinic- Dr. Javed Husain & Associates based in Karachi.

Dr. Javed Husain is a US trained and United States Board Certified specialist in Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. He has over 20 years of experience dealing with patients with pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, lung infections, lung cancers and all types of chest and lung diseases. Dr. Javed is licensed to practice as a chest specialist and critical care intensivist in both in the United States as well as in Pakistan. If you or anyone you know needs expert pulmonary in-patient (in-hospital) or outpatient care within a safe and skilled environment, please call The Chest Clinic for an appointment to see Dr. Javed Husain. Both in person and online consultations are possible by calling +92301 8479066 or reach us through our website at www.thechestclinic.pk to set up an appointment. At The Chest Clinic- Dr. Javed Husain & Associates, our team understands the value of expert, timely, ethical and compassionate care and strives to provide the highest quality care to every patient, every single time.

Image by MasterTux from Pixabay

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The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea which can be due to the structure of muscles in the throat. Central sleep apnea occurs due to improper signals from the brain to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea is a type of sleep apnea which has both obstructive and central components as described above. Sleep disorders left untreated can have significant negative consequences increasing the risk for stroke, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, several other diseases such as glaucoma and poor overall functioning in waking hours.

The ability to be diagnosed with in hospital and home sleep studies provides reliable data that is essential in detailing an individualized treatment plan. All studies are read by Dr. Javed Husain, who is accredited and certified by The American Board of Sleep Medicine. Board certified sleep specialists, by virtue of their clinical training, have an in depth understanding of how sleep affects the human body and how in turn it affects all aspects of physical and mental health.

Our experts in Sleep Medicine and trained staff of sleep technologists provide state of the art polysomnography (sleep studies) that are carried out using the guidelines provided by The American Association of Sleep Medicine.

Sleep specialists can prescribe therapies including medications and if needed can guide patients in the use medical devices such as CPAP machines to help alleviate their symptoms and help restore better long term health and well being.

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