The medical specialty focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to the respiratory system, including the lungs and airways.

Spirometry:

A pulmonary function test measuring the amount and speed of air breathed in and out, helping to assess lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions.

Bronchitis:

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often resulting in coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It can be acute or chronic.

Auscultation:

The process of listening to sounds within the body, often using a stethoscope, to assess lung and heart function.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease):

A group of progressive lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, characterized by airflow limitation and breathing difficulties.

Pneumonia:

Inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs, typically caused by infection, leading to symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs):

A series of tests assessing lung function, including spirometry, lung volumes, and diffusing capacity, to diagnose and monitor respiratory conditions.

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD):

A group of disorders causing inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue between the air sacs, affecting the ability to breathe.

Pleurisy (Pleuritis):

Inflammation of the pleura, the double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs, causing chest pain and discomfort during breathing.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE):

A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries, often caused by a blood clot traveling from the legs, leading to sudden shortness of breath and chest pain.

Thoracentesis:

A medical procedure involving the removal of excess fluid or air from the pleural space around the lungs using a needle.

Lung Cancer:

Abnormal cell growth in the lungs, often linked to smoking, causing symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, and weight loss.

ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome):

A severe lung condition marked by rapid onset of widespread inflammation in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and low oxygen levels.

Ventilation-Perfusion (V/Q) Scan:

A nuclear medicine test assessing airflow and blood flow in the lungs, useful in diagnosing pulmonary embolism and other lung disorders.

Nebulizer:

A device delivering medication in the form of a mist that is inhaled into the lungs, often used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma