ABSTRACT
Haemoptysis is commonly seen in the healthcare setting. It can lead to life-threatening complications and therefore requires careful evaluation of the severity and status of the patient. Common causes of haemoptysis can be broadly grouped into five main categories: infective, neoplastic, vascular, autoimmune and drug-related. Detailed history-taking and careful physical examination are necessary to provide a diagnosis and assess the patient's haemodynamic status. Physicians must have a clear understanding of the criteria for further investigations and the need for a specialist or inpatient referral for management.
Subject(s)
Female , Humans , Middle Aged , Diagnosis, Differential , Hemodynamics , Hemoptysis , Diagnosis , Diagnostic Imaging , Therapeutics , Hemorrhage , Medical History Taking , Primary Health Care , Referral and Consultation , Tomography, X-Ray ComputedABSTRACT
Asthma is a reversible chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways that can be effectively controlled without causing any lifestyle limitation or burden on the quality of life of the majority of asthma patients. However, persistently uncontrolled asthma can be frustrating for both the patient and the managing physician. Patients who fail to respond to high-intensity asthma treatment fall into the category of 'problematic' asthma, which is further subdivided into 'difficult' asthma and 'severe refractory' asthma. Establishing the correct diagnosis of asthma and addressing comorbidities, compliance, inhaler technique and environmental triggers are essential when dealing with 'problematic' asthma patients. A systemic approach is also crucial in managing such patients. This is pertinent for general practitioners, as the majority of asthma patients are diagnosed and managed at the primary care level.