A cough that does not go away or a persistent feeling of tightness in the chest is often underestimated. However, such symptoms can be early signs of serious changes in the lung tissue and should be medically investigated at an early stage before the symptoms worsen. At our private radiology practice in Düsseldorf, we offer a specialized lung CT examination that can detect even the smallest abnormalities in the lungs – often before the first symptoms occur. This is made possible by innovative technology providing extremely high-resolution imaging while significantly reducing radiation exposure.
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Detailed imaging of the lungs
Shows lung tissue, bronchi and blood vessels
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Clarifies unclear X-ray findings
Helpful when conventional imaging does not provide a clear diagnosis
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Quick and straightforward
The examination takes only a few minutes
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Early detection of even the smallest changes
Tumors, inflammation, scarring or vascular changes are often visible much earlier than with other procedures
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Only a low radiation dose required
Reliable results with reduced radiation exposure
How are the lungs structured?
The lungs are the central organs of respiration and supply the body with vital oxygen. With every breath, oxygen from the air enters the lungs, where it is absorbed into the blood and transported through the circulation to the body’s cells. At the same time, carbon dioxide – a waste product of metabolism – is transported back to the lungs via the blood and exhaled. Without this gas exchange, the body would not be able to produce energy and maintain vital functions.
The lungs
The lungs consist of the following structures:
The lungs are divided into two halves. The right lung consists of three lobes: the upper, middle and lower lobes. The left lung, however, has only two lobes – an upper and a lower lobe. There is no room for a third lobe because the heart occupies more space on the left side of the chest.
Each lung lobe is further divided into lung segments. These are functional units, each supplied by its own bronchial branch and blood vessel.
The airways form an extensively branched system of tubes that carries inhaled air deep into the lungs. It begins with the trachea, which divides just below the larynx into two main bronchi – one for each lung. Within the lungs, these main bronchi branch further into lobar bronchi and then segmental bronchi, which supply smaller areas of the lungs. This branching continues down to the fine bronchioles, which eventually lead into tiny alveolar ducts.
The alveoli are tiny, sac-like structures where the vital exchange of gases takes place. Around 300 million alveoli are found in each lung and are surrounded by a dense network of extremely fine blood vessels known as capillaries. Here, oxygen from the inhaled air passes into the blood, while carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the exhaled air. Their enormous number creates an impressive total surface area of approximately 100 square meters – roughly equivalent to the size of a tennis court.
The lungs are surrounded by a protective double layer. The pleura consists of two thin membranes: the visceral pleura lies directly on the lungs, while the parietal pleura lines the inside of the chest cavity. Between the two layers is the pleural space, which contains a thin layer of fluid. This fluid acts as a lubricant and allows the lungs to expand and contract smoothly and without friction with every breath.
What health problems can affect the lungs?
There are numerous diseases that directly affect the lungs and can cause serious symptoms or complications.
Infections
- Bronchitis and pneumonia are common infections of the lower respiratory tract. They are usually caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Typical symptoms include coughing, fever, shortness of breath and/or pain when breathing.
Bronchial asthma
- Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways in which the bronchi are hypersensitive.
- Typical symptoms include attacks of shortness of breath, wheezing and tightness in the chest.
Pulmonary embolism
- In this condition, a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the lungs – an acute, life-threatening emergency.
- Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain and an increased heart rate.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- This is a persistent disease involving narrowed airways and is most commonly caused by smoking.
- COPD causes coughing, sputum production and shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity.
Lung cancer
- In this malignant disease of the lung tissue, abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably and increasingly impair healthy lung function.
- The disease can cause persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, unintentional weight loss and coughing up blood – although symptoms often do not occur until more advanced stages.
Pleural diseases
- Inflammation of the pleura (pleuritis) or fluid accumulation around the lungs (pleural effusion) can significantly restrict breathing.
- Pleural diseases are often associated with sharp chest pain when breathing, a dry cough and shortness of breath. A pleural effusion may also cause a feeling of pressure in the chest.
Consequences of lung diseases and lung damage
Various external influences such as air pollution, smoking, infections or chronic inflammation can affect the lungs. If breathing or gas exchange is impaired, this can have far-reaching consequences for the entire body:
Low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxemia)
The central function of the lungs is to absorb oxygen from inhaled air and transfer it into the blood through the alveoli. If this function is impaired – for example by inflammation, scarring, tumors or chronic lung disease – insufficient oxygen reaches the bloodstream.
Hypoxemia initially causes non-specific symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, persistent fatigue, dizziness, headaches or shortness of breath, often even during minor physical activity. If the oxygen deficiency persists for a prolonged period or progresses rapidly, serious consequences can occur because the heart, brain, kidneys and other organs are particularly sensitive to a lack of oxygen. In the worst case, life-threatening multiple organ failure may occur.
Carbon dioxide accumulation (hypercapnia)
In addition to absorbing oxygen (O₂), the lungs are also responsible for removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the body through exhalation. If this process is impaired by reduced lung function, increasing amounts of CO₂ accumulate in the blood.
Early signs of hypercapnia include headaches, restlessness, difficulty concentrating and a general feeling of drowsiness. If CO₂ levels continue to rise, impaired consciousness, sleepiness, confusion or even CO₂ narcosis may occur.
Breathing itself can also become unbalanced: the body attempts to lower CO₂ levels by breathing more rapidly. If this is unsuccessful, respiratory failure may occur. At the same time, circulatory problems, a drop in blood pH (acidosis) and impaired heart function may develop.
Severe hypercapnia may require intensive medical treatment.
Strain on the heart and circulation
If lung function remains impaired for a prolonged period, resistance in the pulmonary blood vessels increases. This means that the heart has to work harder to pump blood through the lungs so that it can be enriched with oxygen.
The right side of the heart is particularly affected because it transports oxygen-poor blood from the body to the lungs. If this increased pressure persists for a prolonged period, it is referred to as pulmonary hypertension. Over time, this can place strain on the right side of the heart and eventually lead to right-sided heart failure – a condition medically known as cor pulmonale. Blood can then back up in the body’s circulation, causing fluid accumulation in the legs (edema), enlargement of the liver, fatigue and reduced physical performance.
In combination with reduced lung function, this can create a negative cycle in which heart and lung disease reinforce one another. This can have potentially serious effects on quality of life and physical capacity.
Weakening of the immune system
Damaged lung tissue is significantly impaired in its natural defense function. The fine mucous membranes and cilia of the airways, which normally filter out bacteria, viruses and harmful substances, may no longer be able to perform their function adequately.
As a result, the risk of infections of the lower respiratory tract increases considerably. Those affected are more likely to develop acute bronchitis, pneumonia or viral respiratory infections, which may be more severe and take longer to resolve. Chronic inflammatory processes in the lung tissue can also lead to persistent activation of the immune system, causing it to become exhausted or dysregulated over time. This makes the entire body more susceptible to further infections and can weaken physical resilience in the long term.
Older people and patients with underlying conditions such as COPD, asthma or pulmonary fibrosis are particularly at risk.
Reduced physical performance
If the lungs can no longer absorb sufficient oxygen, every form of physical activity can become a challenge. Even minor exertion such as climbing stairs, shopping or walking briskly may lead to shortness of breath, exhaustion and a marked reduction in performance.
These limitations affect not only mobility and independence in everyday life, but also have direct consequences for the entire body. Lack of physical activity frequently leads to a loss of muscle strength, a slowing of the metabolism and increased susceptibility to secondary conditions such as diabetes or obesity.
The psychological burden should not be underestimated either. Many patients develop a fear of physical activity because of their reduced capacity, which can lead to social withdrawal, depression or a loss of enjoyment in life.
Early identification of the cause and appropriate treatment are therefore important in counteracting these developments and maintaining quality of life.
Effects on the brain and nervous system
The brain depends on a continuous and sufficient supply of oxygen. Even a mild lack of oxygen (hypoxia) can noticeably impair cognitive performance. Common consequences include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, slower reaction times and a general feeling of mental exhaustion.
A pronounced oxygen deficiency – for example during an acute deterioration in lung function – can cause dizziness, disorientation, speech disorders or even loss of consciousness. In severe cases, neurological complications, seizures or permanent brain damage may occur if the lack of oxygen persists for a prolonged period.
A lack of oxygen can have a particularly rapid and pronounced effect in older people or patients with pre-existing disorders of the nervous system. Early diagnosis and treatment of breathing disorders are therefore important not only for physical health but also for mental health.
Lung CT in Düsseldorf:
What is it?
Lung CT is a modern, high-resolution procedure for the precise assessment of lung tissue. The aim of this examination is to detect pathological changes as early as possible, often before the first symptoms occur. It is particularly suitable for prevention and diagnostics in patients with increased risk, for example those with chronic coughing, a family history of lung disease or a history of smoking.
At our private radiology practice in Düsseldorf, we use a particularly radiation-efficient low-dose HRCT examination (high-resolution computed tomography) of the lungs. The examination is performed using the Aquilion Lightning SP® 80-slice CT scanner from CANON Medical – a latest-generation system.
This technology provides high-resolution imaging of the lungs while significantly reducing radiation exposure. The examination is quick, non-invasive and completely painless. It is suitable both for reliably clarifying unclear lung findings and for the early detection of lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, COPD or possible long-term consequences of a COVID-19 infection.
The excellent image quality combined with state-of-the-art dose reduction provides the basis for a sound medical assessment and individually tailored, early treatment planning.
Lung CT with low-dose HRCT in Düsseldorf:
What happens during the examination?
High-resolution computed tomography of the lungs enables precise assessment of your lung tissue. At our private radiology practice in Düsseldorf, you can expect an examination using advanced technology, combined with individual care and a clearly structured procedure.
1. Consultation and information
At the beginning, we have a detailed consultation with you. We record your medical history, possible pre-existing conditions, current symptoms and individual risk factors such as smoking status and family history. We explain the exact procedure for the CT examination, answer questions about radiation exposure and inform you whether a contrast agent is required.
2. Preparation
In most cases, no special preparation is necessary. If a contrast agent is required, it will be administered through a vein in your arm beforehand. You only need to remove metallic or other interfering objects before lying down on the examination table.
3. Lung CT
The examination is performed using the Aquilion Lightning SP®, a modern 80-slice CT scanner. During the scan, you lie comfortably on your back. The examination table moves into the CT scanner for the duration of the scan. During this time, you should breathe as calmly as possible or briefly hold your breath when instructed to do so.
4. Evaluation of the findings
Immediately afterwards, you can get dressed again and leave the practice. Our radiologists carefully evaluate the images and prepare a precise report. The results are made available promptly to you and to your treating physician.
This provides the basis for targeted, early and medically sound further treatment.
Lung CT in Düsseldorf:
When is computed tomography used?
High-resolution CT of the lungs is an established procedure for the early detection of lung cancer.
Because lung cancer often causes no symptoms or only non-specific symptoms at an early stage, low-dose HRCT is an important preventive examination. The earlier a tumor is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment and the less extensive treatment may need to be.
This specialized CT technique can visualize different forms of lung cancer at very early stages, including:
- non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): the most common form, including adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
- small cell lung cancer (SCLC): an aggressive, rapidly growing type of tumor that forms metastases at an early stage.
- atypical pulmonary nodules or early-stage carcinomas that are initially only a few millimeters in size and cause no symptoms.
High-resolution HRCT also reveals subtle changes that can easily be overlooked on conventional X-rays. This enables us to distinguish at an early stage between benign changes, early-stage carcinomas and inflammatory processes.
Persistent coughing, recurrent shortness of breath, chest pain or a feeling of pressure in the chest can indicate significant changes in the lungs. If conventional examination methods such as X-rays or pulmonary function testing do not provide a clear diagnosis, lung CT at our private radiology practice in Düsseldorf can provide greater clarity.
For patients with chronic lung diseases such as COPD or pulmonary fibrosis, HRCT of the lungs provides a reliable way to assess the disease accurately and monitor its progression.
The imaging shows characteristic changes in the structure of the lung tissue and enables differentiated treatment planning and close follow-up.
Many people continue to experience shortness of breath, coughing or reduced physical performance for weeks or months after recovering from a COVID-19 infection. Low-dose HRCT can help visualize post-COVID changes in the lungs. These may include fibrotic remodeling, residual inflammatory findings or microscopic damage that may be difficult to detect by other means.
In certain cases, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain or an increased heart rate may raise suspicion of a pulmonary embolism – a blockage of a blood vessel in the lungs caused by a blood clot.
In combination with a contrast agent, a CT examination of the lungs can quickly and reliably determine whether blood vessels are affected. Accompanying changes in the lungs can also be assessed precisely.
If previous examinations have shown unclear or abnormal structures, our lung CT can provide more detailed information thanks to its high spatial resolution. This is important for reliably distinguishing harmless changes such as scarring from findings that require treatment.
We also use low-dose HRCT to monitor previously known changes, such as benign masses, inflammatory areas or findings after lung surgery. The procedure provides a reliable assessment of your current condition and helps identify new developments at an early stage.
Lung CT is also suitable for diagnostic assessment in people who are at increased risk of lung disease even if they do not have any symptoms. In addition to current and former smokers, this includes people with occupational exposure to harmful substances such as silica dust or asbestos, exposure to mold, chronic air pollution or a family history of lung disease.
Early detection in this context makes it possible to respond therapeutically at a very early stage of disease – before the condition becomes clinically apparent.
Lung CT with Dr. May in Düsseldorf
Please note: A so-called justifying indication is required for a lung CT examination at our private radiology practice in Düsseldorf – for example abnormal X-ray findings, a persistent cough or unexplained chest pain.
Please contact us to arrange an appointment for a lung CT examination at our practice – we will provide you with individual and responsible advice.
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