Patients who are in acute hypercapnic/type 2 respiratory failure may need NIV to stabilise their situation. For those requiring acute NIV can be associated with a mortality rate of up to 50% within one year.

This week is a quick visual reminder when remembering the basics of chest x-rays in adults. It’s as simple as DRS-ABDCE!

There are between 5000-6000 new TB cases every year in England (UK), with those in lower socioeconomic environments being most at risk.

Asbestosis is diffuse interstitial fibrosis of the lung as a consequence of exposure to asbestos fibres, resulting in various types of cancer.

A 75-year-old man presents with a 4-day history of a productive cough and is now feeling quite short of breath.

Acute hypercapnic respiratory failure (AHRF) or Type 2 respiratory failure, is a failure of ventilation leading to acute hypercapnia with an element of hypoxia and can be life-threatening.

Asthma is a life-changing disease and (in the UK) about 3 people a day die as a consequence.

Here's a quick guide for identifying the signs of primary and secondary spontaneous pneumothorax.

"75 year old male, 2 day history of productive cough and fever. Increasing DIB and confusion." His blood gas shows acidosis and hypercapnoea, how will you manage him?

"41 year old male with increasing DIB over night, chest feels tight."

Not all asthmatics will need admission and appropriate management in the ED can enable safe discharge.

69-year-old female. Awoke short of breath 6 hours ago. No chest pain.

Quick learning bites on EM topics.

A 41-year-old male is brought to the ER by paramedics with the history of worsening SOB for last 6 hours.