Emergency treatment of bronchial asthma
Our specialized clinic at the University Hospital of Zurich offers you comprehensive diagnostics and personalized treatment—even for complex cases.
Who is this consultation suitable for?
We care for patients with:
- unclear or newly diagnosed bronchiectasis
- frequent or difficult-to-treat respiratory infections
- chronic bacterial colonization of the respiratory tract
- nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)
- Suspected primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD)
- Bronchiectasis in Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
- Bronchiectasis associated with immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or following lung transplantation
Specialized Diagnostics
A targeted investigation of the underlying causes is crucial—because many underlying conditions that trigger bronchiectasis can be treated specifically. Our diagnostic services include:
- Advanced Microbiological Diagnostics
- Diagnosis of immunodeficiencies in close collaboration with the Department of Immunology
- Testing for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM)
- Diagnosis of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)
- Genetic and Functional Evaluation for Suspected Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)
Nasal Brushing in Cases of Suspected Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
If we suspect you have primary ciliary dyskinesia, we will perform a procedure known as nasal brushing. In this process, we collect cells from the nasal mucosa to specifically examine the structure and function of the cilia. This analysis is conducted in close collaboration with a specialized partner laboratory in Bern and is an important part of PCD diagnostics.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your condition. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Our areas of focus are:
- Optimizing Airway Clearance and Inhalation Therapy
- Treatment of Chronic Respiratory Infections
- Eradication and Long-Term Therapies for Selected Pathogens
- Care for patients with NTM infections, in interdisciplinary collaboration with the Department of Infectious Diseases
- Close collaboration with physical therapy, infectious diseases, immunology, otolaryngology, and human genetics
- Support for complex cases, including evaluation for lung transplantation
What you can do yourself
In addition to medical treatment, there is a lot you can do on your own to relieve your symptoms and prevent infections:
- Respiratory physical therapy: Regular breathing exercises help loosen secretions and relieve pressure on the lungs.
- Vaccination: Get vaccinated against the flu and pneumococcal disease—it reduces your risk of serious infections.
- Smoke-Free Environment: Stop smoking completely and avoid environments with secondhand smoke.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity strengthens your immune system and your respiratory muscles.
Act early: If you notice any signs of infection (increased phlegm, discoloration, fever), please contact us right away.
