Respiratory medicine is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infections, interstitial lung disease, and more.

Respiratory specialists manage conditions affecting the lungs and breathing. This includes asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infections, interstitial lung disease, sleep apnoea, pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and unexplained breathlessness.

Common symptoms include persistent cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, recurrent chest infections, coughing up blood, or suspected sleep apnoea. You can listen to my podcast on "the persistent cough" via the link below.

Signs of a serious respiratory condition include persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, wheezing, coughing up blood, and unexplained weight loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly.

To improve lung health, avoid smoking, stay physically active, maintain a healthy diet, avoid exposure to pollutants, and get regular check-ups. Breathing exercises and staying hydrated can also help maintain healthy lungs.

Common tests include: Blood tests (can range from basic tests to wider panel of specialist blood tests) Lung function tests (commonly performed in a dedicated laboratory) Chest X-rays and CT scans Sleep studies (for suspected sleep apnoea) Allergy testing (if asthma is suspected) including blood tests and skin prick tests Sputum (mucus) analysis if you are able to provide a sample Ultrasound of your chest Bronchoscopy - an invasive camera test of your lungs

For private consultations, we accept self-referrals, but a GP referral is often still recommended.

Feel free to bring a list of your current medications, any previous test results (if available), and a diary of your symptoms. It's helpful to write down any questions or concerns in advance. You can provide all of this information via email if that suits you.

You will be warmly welcomed to our clinic. Dr Patel will spend up to 30 minutes discussing your clinical history and symptoms. A physical examination is required on your initial visit. You can request a chaperone for this - please just ask. Following this, Dr Patel will make a management plan which may include diagnostic tests and planning for a further consultation.

Our practice utilises a completely digital platform to issue clinic letters, appointment details and test results. Once a letter or report is ready, you will receive email notifications with a link to the document. You can access all of your information 24/7 on your patient portal.

You can change your appointment details anytime via the patient portal. Alternatively, you can call, email or WhatsApp the practice anytime to inform us. Please note, cancellations less than 24 hours before a confirmed appointment may incur a cancellation fee.

Yes. Dr Patel can offer consultations via telephone or video (virtual consultations). Video consultations are held on our secure platform and a joining link will be sent on the day of the appointment (usually 4-6 hours before). Please note, virtual consultations can only take place for follow-up consultations and if agreed with Dr Patel first.

No problem. Just get in touch via phone, e-mail or WhatsApp and we will get right back to you. You will not have to re-register with us but you may need another GP referral and you will need to let your medical insurance provider know too.