Respiratory Clinic
The clinic is run by nurses with specialist interest in respiratory care. Desri Dyer and Rebecca Walker both hold the National Respiratory Training Centre Diploma in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The nurses keep their knowledge updated with regular reading, attending courses and both belong to the South West Respiratory Forum.
Lynn and Amy are involved in the respiratory clinic as a technician taking detailed breathing tests (spirometry).
The two main respiratory conditions seen in the clinic are Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease however we sometimes see patients with other respiratory problems such as bronchitis, Alpha-1 Antitrypsin deficiency, hyperventilation and childhood wheeze.
Patients are seen yearly in the month of their birthday for both clinics.
Asthma Clinic
Asthma is a common condition affecting the small airways which allow air to flow in and out of the lungs. The airways are inflamed and irritable, they can narrow easily in response to various stimuli, causing symptoms such as wheeze, shortness of breath, cough or chest tightness.
Without the correct medication these symptoms can become disabling, frightening and even life threatening. Treatments prescribed are in accordance of the British Thoracic Society Guidelines/ Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network.
The aim of the asthma clinic is to enable patients to take control of their asthma symptoms in order to lead a normal and healthy lifestyle. The nurses along with your GP take an active role in the diagnosis of asthma, monitoring of symptoms, treatment options and using inhaler devises.
Patients are taught how to recognise and treat symptoms of deteriorating asthma, as well as what to do in an emergency. Patients are also taught how to recognise asthma triggers, and how to respond to triggers such as the common cold.
In addition to these clinics a respiratory nurse is available everyday (except during annual leave) for telephone advice.
COPD Clinic
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is an umbrella term for a collection
of chronic diseases which affect the small airways of the lung, where airflow is obstructed and not fully reversible. These conditions include chronic asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
The respiratory nurse and your GP provide a service for diagnosing COPD which includes spirometry testing, they provide support and advice on reducing risk factors such as smoking and managing the condition with medication, breathing techniques, exercise, diet, treating infections and sputum clearance.
Many patients with COPD are given long term oxygen therapy at home. These patients are usually managed by the hospital respiratory consultants and specialist nurses. However the clinic nurses here will still be available to support these patients. They can provide information on what to expect at a hospital visit, telephone support and advice to benefits which may be available.
Influenza and Pneumococcal vaccinations are recommended to patients with COPD. Medication is tailored to meet the needs of the individual patient and may include inhalers, oral medication, nebulisers or oxygen therapy. Treatment follows the British Thoracic Society Guidelines.
Information can be provided about benefits which may be available for some patients with COPD.
In addition to these clinics a respiratory nurse is available everyday (except during annual leave) for telephone advice.