Pulmonology
The Pulmonology Department at BHT CLINIC is here for you with its expert team in the diagnosis and treatment of lung and respiratory tract conditions. We offer modern medical solutions so you can breathe safely and comfortably.
About the department
The most basic requirement for a healthy life is being able to breathe comfortably and uninterruptedly. The Pulmonology Department at BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services in the early diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of lung and respiratory system conditions. Our goal is to improve our patients' quality of life and ensure they breathe comfortably using the most up-to-date approaches modern medicine offers.
In our department, we offer a wide range of services from simple respiratory tract infections to complex lung diseases, supported by our experienced specialist physicians and advanced technological infrastructure. Our patients' complaints are meticulously evaluated, and personalized diagnosis and treatment plans are created.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT?
Which Diseases and Conditions Are Treated?
In our Pulmonology Department, the treatment of many acute and chronic conditions affecting the respiratory system is successfully managed. The main diseases we frequently encounter and follow up in our clinic include:
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): A progressive disease characterized by the narrowing of the airways, usually developing as a result of long-term tobacco use or exposure to harmful gases. For your COPD treatment in Istanbul needs, our clinic applies modern treatment protocols aimed at preserving our patients' respiratory capacities.
- Lung Cancer: It is one of the leading diseases where early diagnosis saves lives. Fast and reliable diagnostic processes are carried out in our clinic for patients suspected of having lung cancer. For more information, you can review our article titled Lung Cancer: Early Diagnosis and Treatment Methods.
- Asthma: A chronic disease that occurs as a result of hypersensitivity of the airways and progresses in attacks. The management of allergic and non-allergic asthma types, protection from triggers, and medication treatments are organized. You can check our content How to protect against asthma in autumn for what to watch out for during seasonal transitions.
- Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lung tissue. In the treatment of these infections, which can be bacterial, viral, or fungal, outpatient or inpatient treatment is planned according to the patient's condition. Our article on Legionnaires' Disease and Prevention Methods will be especially useful regarding infections that can arise from ventilation systems.
- Sleep Apnea: A serious syndrome characterized by recurrent pauses in breathing during sleep, presenting with symptoms such as snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Diagnostic Methods
The first step to the right treatment is an accurate and rapid diagnosis. As the BHT CLINIC Pulmonology Department, we use the most advanced technological equipment in diagnosing diseases. The main diagnostic methods applied in our clinic are:
- Bronchoscopy Procedure: The direct examination of the airways (bronchi) from the inside using a flexible tube with a camera at the end (bronchoscope). It plays a critical role in evaluating unexplained cough, bloody sputum, or suspicious lesions seen on chest X-rays. During a bronchoscopy procedure, a biopsy or fluid sample can also be taken if necessary.
- EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound): An advanced diagnostic method that combines bronchoscopy with ultrasonography. It is particularly used in lung cancer staging, evaluating lymph nodes in the chest cavity, and taking biopsies. Our hospital stands out with its modern infrastructure among the hospitals performing EBUS in Istanbul. It allows the imaging of structures behind the airway walls without requiring a surgical incision.
- PFT (Pulmonary Function Test): A basic test that measures the capacity of the lungs and how well they work. It is routinely used in the diagnosis of diseases such as COPD and asthma, determining the severity of the disease, and monitoring the effectiveness of the applied treatment.
Treatment Methods and Applications
In our department, personalized treatment processes are planned according to the diagnosis. In addition to medical treatments, we also provide guidance on lifestyle changes for our patients.
One of our prominent applications is Smoking Cessation Treatment. Tobacco use is the main cause of many lung diseases. With our hospital's smoking cessation center approach, medical and psychological support is provided to our patients who want to overcome their addiction. We stand by you in this challenging process with personalized nicotine replacement therapies or prescription medications.
The treatment of allergic diseases and inpatient care for complex cases requiring advanced examinations are also meticulously carried out in our ward. With an interdisciplinary approach, the most comprehensive lung cancer treatment processes are managed by collaborating with the thoracic surgery, oncology, and radiology departments when necessary.
Technology and Team
The BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hospital Pulmonology Department has a modern infrastructure equipped with up-to-date medical devices. Thanks to our EBUS and high-resolution bronchoscopy devices, we can obtain fast and reliable results even in the most challenging cases.
Dr. Hıjran MAMMADOVA, a specialist in our department, serves with her deep knowledge and patient-oriented approach in the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases. Our physician has adopted the principle of establishing reassuring communication by managing our patients' treatment process transparently. Our entire medical team works with great dedication 24/7 to provide safe and high-quality healthcare services in accordance with JCI accreditation standards.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Respiratory system diseases usually start with mild symptoms but can lead to serious health problems if neglected. If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, it is of great importance to consult a pulmonology specialist without delay:
- Persistent and chronic cough lasting longer than three weeks
- Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing
- Shortness of breath felt even without exertion or while resting
- Coughing up bloody or rust-colored sputum
- Chest pain that increases when taking a deep breath or coughing
- Excessive night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite
- Snoring and suspected pauses in breathing (apnea) during sleep
Appointment and Consultation Process
Do not delay in protecting your lung health and breathing comfortably. You can easily book an appointment to be examined at the BHT CLINIC İstanbul Tema Hospital Pulmonology Department or to have procedures such as EBUS, bronchoscopy, or pulmonary function tests done.
To consult with our specialist, Dr. Hıjran MAMMADOVA, and create your personalized treatment plan, you can book an appointment now. You can get detailed information by contacting our call center at 0850 811 34 00, available 24/7, and meet reliable healthcare services for your pulmonology hospital in Istanbul needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the bronchoscopy procedure take?
The bronchoscopy procedure is usually completed between 15 and 30 minutes. The total hospital stay, including pre-procedure preparation and post-procedure recovery and observation, can take a few hours. The procedure is typically performed under sedation, which provides mild sleepiness for the patient's comfort, so no pain or discomfort is felt.
Can COPD be completely cured?
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a chronic and progressive condition, so there is currently no definitive cure that completely eliminates the disease. However, with early diagnosis, smoking cessation, appropriate medical treatments (inhalers), and pulmonary rehabilitation, the progression of the disease can be stopped, symptoms can be greatly reduced, and the patient's quality of life can be significantly improved.
How does the smoking cessation clinic work?
During the smoking cessation process, the patient's addiction level, daily habits, and general health status are evaluated by our specialist physician. When deemed necessary, pulmonary function tests and chest X-rays are taken. Based on the evaluation, personalized nicotine replacement therapies (patches, gums) or prescription medications are planned. Psychological and medical support continues uninterrupted through regular outpatient check-ups throughout the process.
Is the EBUS procedure painful?
No, since the EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound) procedure is usually performed under sedation (mild sleepiness) or general anesthesia, patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. There may be a slight tickle in the throat or a mild cough after the procedure, which usually resolves on its own in a short time.
What should be considered before a Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)?
For the test to provide accurate results, it is recommended not to smoke, eat heavy meals, or engage in strenuous exercise for at least 4 hours before the procedure. Also, unless your doctor advises otherwise, you may need to avoid using your regular bronchodilator (inhaler) medications on the morning of the test. Your doctor will provide you with detailed information before the test.
