Many patients become concerned when they hear a doctor say they have “fluid in the chest” or “water in the lungs.” While these terms are often used interchangeably, they can refer to two different medical conditions. Fluid may collect inside the lungs or around the lungs, and understanding the difference is important because the causes,…
Read MoreIntroduction Lung tuberculosis (TB) is a serious but curable infectious disease. With proper treatment and care, most patients recover completely and can prevent the spread of infection to others. Following recommended precautions is essential for successful treatment and protecting family members. What Is Lung Tuberculosis? Lung tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterium that…
Read MorePleural effusion is a condition that often causes confusion and anxiety in patients. It simply means abnormal collection of fluid around the lungs. While the word “fluid in the chest” can sound serious, understanding the condition and its treatment—especially the role of a pleural tap (thoracentesis)—can help patients feel more informed and reassured. What Is…
Read MoreA cough with phlegm (also called a “productive cough”) is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor. Many patients believe that yellow or green sputum automatically means infection and requires antibiotics. However, this is not always true. Understanding when antibiotics are needed—and when they are not—is important to avoid unnecessary medication use…
Read MoreLung cancer is often strongly associated with smoking, but a surprising fact is that a significant number of lung cancer patients have never smoked in their life. This can be confusing and worrying for many people who assume lung cancer only affects smokers. Understanding how and why lung cancer can occur in non-smokers is important…
Read MoreFluid around the lungs, medically known as pleural effusion, occurs when excess fluid collects in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. While a small amount of fluid normally helps the lungs move smoothly during breathing, too much fluid can make breathing difficult and may signal an underlying health problem. Pleural effusion is…
Read MoreEvery 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…
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