The Department diagnoses these conditions through a number of different tests which show the Respiratory Consultants the efficacy of the patient’s breathing. This may be done on an ongoing basis to monitor patients who have existing conditions or as an initial assessment for those who are experiencing shortness of breath as a new condition/symptom.

Often these tests are done in conjunction with other Departments. For instance patients who are undergoing Cardiac or Orthopaedic surgery will be assessed in advance of their surgery. Oncology patients may sometimes find that their treatment or chemotherapy is affecting their breathing.

The results of respiratory tests allow the consultants advising these patients to revise or continue their recommended treatment path accordingly.

The Respiratory Department also runs a Sleep Clinic which aims to help patients who suffer from conditions such as apnoea, restless leg sundrome, insomnia or narcolepsy.