A cough that won’t go away, unexplained breathlessness or repeated chest infections can be frustrating — particularly when you’re unsure what is causing your symptoms or whether you should seek further help.
Whilst respiratory symptoms can have a number of different causes, some may benefit from specialist assessment. Consultant Respiratory Physician Dr Hawkins answers some of the common questions patients have about their lung health and explains when it may be appropriate to seek specialist advice.
When should I see a respiratory specialist?
You should consider seeking a specialist opinion if you have any of the following: a cough that has lasted more than 8 weeks; breathlessness that is unexplained or getting worse; recurrent chest infections (two or more per year); wheezing or chest tightness that is not well controlled; coughing up blood; an abnormal chest X-ray; or a known lung condition that is not adequately managed by your GP.
I keep getting chest infections — is this normal?
Recurrent chest infections (more than one or two per year) are not something to accept as normal. They can be a sign of an underlying condition such as bronchiectasis, immunodeficiency, or structural lung changes. It is worth having this assessed properly.
I get breathless climbing stairs but my GP says my heart is fine — should I see a respiratory specialist?
Yes you should consider seeing a respiratory specialist. Breathlessness on exertion has many causes, and the lungs are frequently involved even when the heart has been checked. A respiratory assessment including lung function tests can identify conditions such as asthma, COPD, or early interstitial lung disease that might not be obvious on initial review.
I've had a cough for months — could it be serious?
A cough lasting more than 8 weeks deserves investigation. The most common causes are asthma, acid reflux (which can cause a cough without heartburn), post-nasal drip, and medication side effects (such as ACE inhibitors). More rarely, a persistent cough can be a sign of something else that requires further assessment. Dr Hawkins has considerable experience in the structured assessment and management of chronic cough.
What is long COVID and can Dr Hawkins help?
Long COVID describes symptoms that persist for more than four weeks after a COVID-19 infection. Breathlessness, persistent cough, and exercise intolerance are among the most common respiratory symptoms. Dr Hawkins can assess, investigate, and manage these ongoing symptoms and will involve other specialists where appropriate.
What is the difference between a respiratory physician, chest physician, and pulmonologist?
These terms all describe the same specialty — a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating diseases of the lungs and airways. 'Respiratory physician' and 'chest physician' are the terms most commonly used in the UK; 'pulmonologist' is the preferred term in the United States.
Can a respiratory specialist help with allergies?
Yes, where allergies affect the respiratory system — for example, allergic asthma, hay fever causing respiratory symptoms, or hypersensitivity pneumonitis — respiratory physicians are well placed to assess and manage these.
Will Dr Hawkins communicate with my GP?
Yes. Following every consultation, Dr Hawkins will write a detailed clinic letter to your GP (and any other relevant specialists) summarising his findings, investigation results, and management plan. You will receive a copy for your own records.
What happens at my first appointment with Dr Hawkins?
Dr Hawkins will take a detailed history of your symptoms — when they started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect your daily life. He will examine you and, where appropriate, arrange investigations on the same day or shortly afterwards. By the end of your appointment you will have a clear idea of the likely diagnosis and next steps.
What tests might I need?
This depends on your symptoms, but common investigations include spirometry (breathing test), FeNO testing (airway inflammation), full lung function testing, chest X-ray, CT scan of the chest, blood tests, and sputum analysis. Many of these can be arranged promptly through Oaks Hospital.
How soon will I get the results?
Dr Hawkins aims to provide results and a management plan as quickly as possible. In many cases a working diagnosis and initial treatment plan can be established at the first visit.
How often will I need to be seen?
For a stable, well-controlled condition, a review every 6–12 months is usually sufficient. If your condition is more complex or newly diagnosed, appointments every 3–6 months are more typical, alongside any additional visits after a flare-up. Dr Hawkins will always advise the most appropriate review interval for your situation.
Booking an Appointment with Dr Hawkins
Do I need a GP referral to book an appointment?
No. You are welcome to refer yourself directly. However, a letter from your GP or another specialist is helpful as it provides important background information and any recent investigation results. If you do not have a referral letter, Dr Hawkins will write to your GP after your appointment to keep them informed.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book online, or contact us to book an appointment. Appointments are available for both in-person consultations and video consultations.
Is Dr Hawkins recognised by my health insurer?
Yes. Dr Hawkins is recognised by all major private medical insurers, including BUPA, AXA Health, Aviva, Vitality, Cigna, and WPA, among others. Please check with your insurer before your appointment to confirm your level of cover and whether a GP referral is required under your policy.