Respiratory medicine & pulmonology: Diagnosis & treatment in Turkey 2024

What respiratory diseases do pulmonologists treat?

Respirology includes all diseases that affect the lungs, bronchi, pleura, and trachea. Respirologists diagnose and treat a wide range of respiratory diseases, including:

• Obstructive diseases: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),asthma.
• Restrictive diseases: pulmonary fibrosis.
• Infections: pneumonia, tuberculosis.
• Lung cancer.
• Allergies: allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma.
• Vascular diseases: pulmonary embolism.
• Sleep disorders: sleep apnea.

Thanks to specific examinations (spirometry, CT scan, bronchoscopy, etc.) and adapted treatments (medication, respiratory rehabilitation, etc.),pulmonologists can significantly improve the quality of life of their patients.

Given the impact of poor oxygenation on the whole body, pulmonology has close links with other medical specialties such as cardiology, neurology and internal medicine.

When should you see a pulmonologist in Turkey?

Do you cough constantly or feel out of breath when climbing stairs? These symptoms should not be taken lightly. A pulmonologist, a specialist in respiratory diseases, can help you identify the cause of your problems and find an appropriate treatment.

We recommend that you see a pulmonologist if you have:

• Persistent cough (dry or with sputum).
• Difficulty breathing, worsened by exertion.
• Audible wheezing.
• Chest pain.
• Unusual fatigue.

These symptoms may occur alone or in combination, and their specificity depends on the underlying respiratory disease.

If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to make an appointment with a pulmonologist in Turkey. An accurate diagnosis will allow you to take the necessary steps to quickly improve your quality of life.

Risk factors for respiratory diseases

Tobacco smoke and air pollution are the main risk factors for respiratory diseases.

Smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer and COPD, and aggravates asthma. Exposure to secondhand smoke, even if passive, is dangerous for everyone, especially children and people who already suffer from respiratory problems.

Air pollution, indoors and outdoors, irritates the respiratory tract and can lead to many diseases.

To reduce the risks, we recommend that you stop smoking, avoid polluted environments and consult a doctor if you have persistent symptoms.

Diagnosis of respiratory diseases in Turkey

The diagnosis of respiratory diseases in Turkey is based on a panoply of complementary examinations, rigorously selected according to the patient's symptoms.

• Clinical examination: The essential starting point. Auscultation of the lungs and percussion of the chest help to detect the first signs of abnormality.
• Spirometry: This simple but essential test measures breathing capacity and helps diagnose conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Allergology: For patients with respiratory allergies, skin or blood tests help identify the allergens responsible.
• Medical Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, and CAT scans provide precise visualization of the lungs to detect structural abnormalities, infections, or tumors.
• Bronchial fibroscopy: This endoscopic procedure, performed under local anesthesia, examines the airways and takes samples (biopsies) for analysis and accurate diagnosis, especially in cases of suspected lung cancer.

Respiratory disease treatment in Turkey

Respiratory diseases benefit from personalized, advanced care in Turkey. Treatments are tailored to each patient and combine:

• Targeted pharmacotherapy: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids and antibiotics are used according to the nature and severity of the pathology.
• Specialized respiratory rehabilitation: Specific exercises help improve respiratory function and optimize quality of life.
• Precision surgery: Surgery is considered in complex cases, especially to remove tumors or treat severe lung disease.
• Customized oxygen therapy: In case of respiratory insufficiency, supplemental oxygen is adjusted according to the patient's needs.

Turkey's healthcare facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified medical teams, guaranteeing quality care and convincing results.

Preventing respiratory and lung diseases

Preventing respiratory and lung diseases means adopting a healthy lifestyle. In this regard, you should: 

• Stop smoking, the main risk factor. 
• Exercise regularly to improve respiratory function.
• Eat a balanced diet to strengthen the immune system.
• Protect yourself from infections through simple gestures such as washing your hands.
• Avoid exposure to air pollutants and allergens.

Breathe easy in Turkey! Our experienced pulmonologists diagnose and treat all types of respiratory diseases.

Take advantage of a free initial teleconsultation to discuss your symptoms. We'll provide you with a personalized, no-obligation quote and ensure comprehensive care throughout your stay.