Respiratory & Allergic Conditions
FOOD ALLERGIES
An allergy is an undesirable potentially severe or even life-threatening reaction to a substance that normally is harmless (and which has no effect in non-allergic individuals). Led by Professor Angela Simpson, our facility current carries out cutting edge research in food allergy to allow the accurate identification and causes of allergic reactions in order for new treatments to be developed in the future.
ASPERGILLOSIS
Fungal spores are very common, present in the environment and inhaled on a regular basis. Usually when people inhale these spores their immune system destroys them and no infection arises. Some people however, particularly those with a weakened immune system, are not able to destroy the spores and they develop a fungal lung infection. Led by Professor David Denning, our aspergillosis specialists conduct research into new ways to treat the infections so that successful treatments can be developed.
CHRONIC COUGH
Most coughs are caused by viruses and settle down by themselves, but some people develop persistent coughing which can last anywhere from 8 weeks to several years. This is called chronic cough. The reason people develop chronic cough is currently unknown. Our facility has an active programme of research led by our facility Director, Professor Jacky Smith. Our research focusses on the cause of chronic cough and potential treatments.
CYSTIC FIBROSIS
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease caused by a faulty gene. It primarily affects the lungs, with repeated chest infections and breathlessness, but also has important effects on nutrition, diabetes, bones and joints. There is a wide variation in how severely individual patients are affected. Our Deputy Director, Dr Alex Horsley leads on our CF which makes it possible for CF care to progress and develop.
INTENSIVE CARE
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LUNG FIBROSIS
Patients with lung fibrosis have inflammation or scarring in their lungs making them thick and hard. This build-up of inflammation and scar tissue is called fibrosis. As the lungs become stiffer and lose their elasticity, they are less able to take oxygen from the air making it difficult to breathe. Dr Nazia Chaudhuri and her team carry out research at our facility into potential new medications for patients with lung fibrosis.
SEVERE ASTHMA
Asthma is a common long-term condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Asthma can be controlled well most of the time, although some people have more persistent problems. We are one of the UK's leading centres for treatment of asthma and allergies. Dr Rob Niven's research has a strong focus on steroid treatments and developing new strategies and treatments for managing patients with severe asthma.