What is respiratory medicine?
Respiratory (chest) medicine focuses on diagnosing and managing conditions that affect your lungs and airways. If you have symptoms such as breathlessness, a long-term cough, wheezing or chest pain, a consultant in respiratory medicine can help find out what’s causing them and how best to manage them.
Spire Healthcare have a skilled team of consultants who provide care for many respiratory conditions such as lung cancer, asthma, emphysema, bronchitis and pneumonia.
Common conditions we can help with
Our consultants are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of chest and breathing problems, including:
- Asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Persistent cough
- Breathlessness and unexplained shortness of breath
- Chest infections and bronchitis
- Sleep apnoea and snoring
- Pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease
- Pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
- Tuberculosis and other infections
Tests and investigations
We offer a range of diagnostic tests to help your consultant make an accurate diagnosis, including:
- Blood oxygen and gas analysis
- Bronchoscopy
- Chest X-rays and CT scans
- Lung function (spirometry) tests
All tests are carried out in comfortable surroundings with fast results available to your consultant.
Your consultant will create a personalised care plan to help relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life. This may include medication, inhaler therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, or referral for further specialist care if needed.
Select from our range of available respiratory medicine treatments
Lung function testing now available in Edinburgh
Spire Edinburgh Hospitals now offers spirometry (lung function testing) to help assess how well your lungs are working. The test is quick, non-invasive and carried out by experienced clinical teams.
Spirometry can support the diagnosis and monitoring of conditions such as asthma, COPD and other breathing problems.
Find a consultant at Spire Edinburgh Hospitals
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a respiratory medicine specialist?
If you’ve had a cough lasting more than eight weeks, frequent chest infections, wheezing, or shortness of breath, it’s worth seeing a respiratory specialist to find the cause and get appropriate treatment.
What tests might I need for a lung or chest problem?
Your consultant may recommend a chest X-ray, CT scan, or lung function test to measure how well your lungs are working. These tests help identify any underlying condition.
Can I self-refer to a respiratory consultant at Spire?
In some cases you can book directly without a GP referral. Our advisers can help you find the right consultant and arrange an appointment quickly.
What treatments are available for breathing problems?
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include inhalers, medication, physiotherapy, or oxygen therapy. Your consultant will explain all options and what’s best for you.
Is private treatment covered by insurance?
Most private medical insurance policies cover respiratory medicine consultations and investigations. It's always best to check your individual policy cover with your insurer.
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