Posts by Dr John Chinegwundoh
Poor sleep, tiredness and breathlessness: are they linked?
Yes, poor sleep, tiredness and breathlessness can be linked. Sleep apnoea can interrupt breathing overnight and cause daytime tiredness. Lung conditions can disturb sleep, while anaemia or heart problems may cause fatigue and shortness of breath. These symptoms need assessment rather than an assumption that you simply need more sleep. For patients seeking a respiratory…
Read MoreCoughing Up Blood or Blood in Phlegm | Chest Doctor London
Coughing up blood always needs to be assessed. That includes a single streak in your phlegm, and it includes times when you feel otherwise well. Common explanations include a chest infection or irritation from heavy coughing. Other causes can be more serious, and there is no reliable way to tell the difference at home. A…
Read MoreTests for Unexplained Breathlessness in London and Surrey
Tests for unexplained breathlessness often start with blood tests, an ECG, a chest X-ray and spirometry. Depending on the findings, further investigations may include detailed lung function tests, an echocardiogram or chest CT. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) can help when symptoms remain unexplained, particularly during activity. You will not necessarily need every test. This guide…
Read MoreWhy Do I Keep Getting Chest Infections? | Dr John Chinegwundoh
Getting chest infections repeatedly is not bad luck or a weak constitution. Healthy lungs are very good at clearing the bacteria and viruses everybody breathes in daily. When infections keep taking hold, it usually means one of those defences is not working properly, and identifying which one is what breaks the cycle. Two or more…
Read MoreChest Infection vs Pneumonia: Explained by Dr John | Chest Doctor London
Pneumonia is a type of chest infection, not a separate illness. Chest infection is the general term for an infection in the lungs or airways. Pneumonia is the more serious form, where the infection reaches the tiny air sacs deep in the lung rather than staying in the airways above them. So if your GP…
Read MoreWhen Does a Persistent Cough Need Investigation?
Persistent Cough: When to Investigate
Read MoreClearing the air around coughing
A cough is the body’s attempt to clear out the airways. It can be a one-off to expel a physical obstruction (such as accidentally inhaling dust), or it can be a more common occurrence in response to respiratory agitation, infection or illness. In this article, consultant in respiratory medicine Dr John Chinegwundoh describes the common…
Read MoreManaging asthma: a respiratory consultant’s guide
Asthma is a common long-term lung condition that affects the airways, causing symptoms that can range from mild to potentially life-threatening. With the right approach, asthma can be well controlled in most individuals, allowing them to live normal, active lives. This article by a consultant respiratory physician provides an overview of asthma and how to…
Read MoreHighlighting the Importance of Prevention: Dr Chinegwundoh in NHS South West London’s Winter Campaign
I was pleased to be featured in a recent article by NHS South West London, which spotlights the extraordinary system-wide effort to keep our communities safe this winter through vaccination. As a respiratory consultant at Kingston Hospital, I see the impact of seasonal viruses like flu, Covid-19, and RSV on patients each day – and…
Read MoreDr Chinegwundoh hosted a Private Practice Event for Cambridge Doctors
Dr Chinegwundoh as President of The Cambridge Medical Graduates’ Society recently hosted an insightful and well-attended Private Practice Event, bringing together Cambridge-trained doctors from across the UK to explore the opportunities, challenges, and practicalities of establishing and thriving in private healthcare. Key Highlights: Expert Panels: Senior consultants and successful private practitioners shared their journeys, discussing the…
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