Pulmonary Diseases

Problems that develop in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems can cause shortness of breath and reduce a person's quality of life. In some cases, severe breathing difficulties may even prevent patients from carrying out their daily activities. For this reason, if you notice a suspicious symptom, you should consult a specialist for early diagnosis and treatment.

The Department of Chest Diseases, made up of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists and healthcare staff, works with state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies such as advanced imaging and pulmonary function tests. Embracing patient-centred care, it provides holistic treatment that includes both preventive practices and therapeutic interventions.

Our Mission: To follow the latest technological devices and newest treatment methods in the field of Chest Diseases, to offer them to the service of humanity with our distinguished and experienced team specialised in the field and in specific diseases, and to achieve excellent results in accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Our Vision: To be one of the centres accredited by national and international institutions in solving problems in the field of Chest Diseases and in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Our Subunits:

• Chest Diseases and Allergy Outpatient Clinic

• Smoke-Free Living and Smoking Cessation Outpatient Clinic

• Pulmonary Function Laboratory

• Allergy Laboratory

• Bronchoscopy Laboratory

• Other Procedures and Applications

• Patient Education

What Are Chest Diseases?

The Department of Chest Diseases deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the lungs, the respiratory system and the cardiovascular system. The severity of these diseases can vary, and they often arise as a result of infections, environmental factors, genetic predisposition or lifestyle choices. Understanding the basic nature of chest diseases is important for effective prevention and management. These diseases include:

• Pneumonia: Pneumonia is inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs. It is usually caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections.

• Bronchitis: Bronchitis, meaning inflammation of the bronchi, is characterised by dark-coloured sputum and wheezing. It is caused by viral infections, smoking or exposure to irritants.

• Emphysema: Emphysema is the gradual destruction of the alveoli in the lungs and a decrease in their elasticity. This deterioration leads to impaired airflow and breathing problems.

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is a progressive lung disease caused primarily by chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In this disease, airflow is impaired due to narrowing of the bronchi and loss of elasticity in the lungs. Smoking is a major risk factor for COPD.

• Asthma: Asthma is a chronic condition characterised by inflammation of the airways and can cause recurrent episodes of coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Asthma can be triggered by allergens, exercise or environmental factors.

• Interstitial Lung Diseases: This category includes a group of disorders that cause inflammation and stiffening of the lung tissue. Conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis can lead to impaired lung function.

• Lung Cancer: Lung cancer, which results from uncontrolled cell growth in the lungs, is caused particularly by tobacco smoke, environmental pollutants or genetic factors. Early diagnosis and intervention are important to improve outcomes in lung cancer cases.

• Pulmonary Embolism: Pulmonary embolism refers to a blood clot travelling to the lungs and blocking blood flow. This condition can be life-threatening and may present with symptoms such as sudden chest pain, shortness of breath and a rapid heartbeat.

• Occupational Lung Diseases: Exposure to certain occupational hazards can cause chest diseases. For example, asbestos-related diseases can lead to asbestosis or mesothelioma.

• Cystic Fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems. It leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus, causing recurrent lung infections and breathing difficulties.

• Pleurisy: Pleurisy is inflammation of the thin membranes surrounding the lungs. It can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing.

• Pleural Effusion: Pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space within the chest cavity due to infections, heart failure or cancer.

• Pneumothorax: Pneumothorax is the accumulation of air in the pleural space between the lung and the chest wall as a result of air leaking from the lungs. The trapped air puts pressure on the lungs and causes the lung to collapse.

What Are the Symptoms of Chest Diseases?

Recognising the symptoms associated with chest diseases and noticing them early is of great importance for prompt intervention. These symptoms include:

• Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath, or dyspnoea, the most prominent symptom of chest diseases, can be a sign of respiratory distress. It can range from mild to severe depending on the underlying condition.

• Persistent Cough: A chronic or persistent cough lasting for weeks may indicate lung infections, chronic bronchitis, asthma or even lung cancer. The type of cough and its accompanying features can provide valuable clues about the underlying problem.

• Chest Pain: Chest pain can result from various chest diseases, including pneumonia, pleurisy or a heart attack. The nature, duration and location of the pain are important for an accurate diagnosis.

• Wheezing: Wheezing is usually associated with conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It indicates airway obstruction or inflammation.

• Fatigue: Constant fatigue can be a symptom of many chest diseases. Because the body struggles to breathe, it cannot meet its energy needs, which leads to fatigue.

• Cyanosis: A bluish discolouration of the skin, lips and fingertips is a worrying sign indicating a lack of oxygen in the blood. Conditions such as pneumonia, pulmonary embolism or congenital heart defects can cause cyanosis.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss may be associated with certain chest diseases, including lung cancer. The cause of this weight loss is the increased energy demand due to chronic inflammation or a malignant tumour.

• Frequent Respiratory Tract Infections: Recurrent infections can be a sign that the respiratory system has weakened. People who experience frequent respiratory tract infections should consult a specialist to determine the underlying cause.

How Are Chest Diseases Diagnosed?

The following tests are performed in the Department of Chest Diseases to diagnose diseases:

• Clinical Evaluation: The diagnostic process begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation. Healthcare professionals take a detailed patient history, ask about symptoms and perform a physical examination to gather essential information. Factors such as the duration and nature of symptoms, lifestyle and environmental exposure are taken into account.

• Imaging Studies: Radiological imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing chest diseases. X-rays provide a quick, basic assessment and reveal abnormalities in lung structure. Computed tomography (CT) scans offer detailed cross-sectional images and help detect lesions, tumours or infections.

• Pulmonary Function Tests: These tests are used to assess lung function. They measure parameters such as lung capacity, airflow and gas exchange. Spirometry and lung capacity measurement are among these tests. Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis or restrictive lung diseases.

• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests can provide valuable information about the presence of infection, inflammation or abnormal immune responses. In particular, a complete blood count, C-reactive protein (CRP) and tests to detect autoimmune markers are performed.

• Bronchoscopy: Bronchoscopy is used in cases that require direct visualisation of the airways. A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the lungs through the nose or mouth. This procedure allows the physician to examine the lungs and take samples for further analysis.

• Biopsy: A biopsy may be required to confirm abnormalities detected on imaging tests. Tissue samples obtained by biopsy are of great importance for making a definitive diagnosis.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Echocardiography: An ECG or echocardiography may be performed to assess heart function and rule out heart-related causes of chest symptoms. These tests can help detect conditions such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

How Are Chest Diseases Treated?

Coping with chest diseases varies from person to person, but it can be challenging, because these diseases can affect not only physical health but also overall quality of life. Effective treatment requires both medical interventions and lifestyle changes. Medications such as inhalers and antibiotics help manage symptoms, while respiratory therapies and exercises improve lung function. Quitting smoking, adopting a balanced diet and staying active make a significant contribution to overall health. For those with low oxygen levels, oxygen therapy can make daily activities more manageable. In more serious cases, surgical interventions may be required, especially for conditions such as lung cancer or emphysema. Vaccines, psychological support and regular check-ups can provide a holistic approach. In addition, environmental awareness, a clean living space and a positive outlook are important for managing and treating chest diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can You Tell If There Is a Problem with Your Lungs?

The key to understanding whether there is a problem with your lungs is to pay attention to your body's signals. A persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain or unexplained fatigue are warning signs. If, in addition to these symptoms, you smoke or have a family history of lung problems, regular health check-ups are important.

Which Department Treats Lung-Related Diseases?

Lung-related diseases are treated by the Department of Chest Diseases.

What Are Chronic Lung Diseases?

Chronic lung diseases are a group of respiratory disorders that persist over a long period of time and worsen over time. They include:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Asthma

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Bronchiectasis

What Are the Symptoms of a Lung Infection?

Lung infections can develop silently and seriously affect overall health. Recognising the symptoms early and intervening is important for coping with these diseases. The main symptoms of a lung infection include a persistent cough, shortness of breath, dark-coloured sputum and chest pain. Fever, chills and body aches may accompany respiratory infections.

What Happens If There Is Inflammation in the Lungs?

When inflammation occurs in the lungs, it disrupts normal breathing processes and leads to symptoms such as a persistent cough, difficulty breathing and chest discomfort. Inflammation is an immune response triggered by infections or irritants. This response can cause long-term damage and adversely affect lung function.

What Does Fluid in the Lungs Mean?

Fluid in the lungs indicates the presence of fluid-filled sacs associated with lung diseases or infections. These bubbles, or bullae, can interfere with normal respiratory function and lead to symptoms such as coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath.

Early diagnosis is important for effective management and for improving overall respiratory health. Regular check-ups, lifestyle changes and early diagnosis are an important step in reducing the effects of chest diseases on individuals. If you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, you can contact your nearest healthcare institution for information on making an appointment with the Department of Chest Diseases.