Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine in Cape Town

Pulmonary and respiratory medicine is a medical specialty that deals with diseases related to the respiratory system, including the nose, throat (pharynx), windpipe (trachea), larynx, the lungs, and the diaphragm. Physicians who are specially trained in pulmonary and respiratory medicine are called pulmonologists or respiratory physicians. They are qualified to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with serious or chronic breathing problems, such as:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Asthma and other small airway conditions
• Cancer, such as cancer of the lung
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pneumonia and empyema
• Bronchiectasis
• Allergic lung and bronchial disorders
• Interstitial lung disease
• Chronic cough
• Pulmonary vascular disorders, such as pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hemorrhage, and pulmonary hypertension
• Pediatric lung diseases
• Critical care and ventilatory failure
• Sleep disorders related to breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea
• Pleural conditions, such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and malignancy.

Pulmonologists can perform a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Some of the most common are as follows:

• Spirometry
• Laboratory tests, such as blood tests
• Pulmonary function tests
• Scintigraphy
• Chest X-rays
• CT scans
• Sleep studies (polysomnography)
• Pleural (lung) ultrasound
• Thoracoscopy
• Bronchoscopy
• Pleuroscopy
• Biopsy, such as transthoracic needle aspiration biopsy
• Positron emission tomography.

A Pulmonologist does not usually perform major surgery. If you require major surgery, particularly on the lungs, they will likely refer you to a thoracic surgeon.

How Long Should I Stay in Cape Town?

Your length of stay depends on the disease you have. In most cases, you do not need to stay in the hospital after your procedure, but you may want to stay in Cape Town for at least 3 days. Your doctor will schedule an appointment when the results of your tests are ready. During this appointment, they will explain the results to you and discuss the best treatment plan for your specific case.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Recovery times can be different from one person to another. You may not be allowed to work, drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or drink alcohol for 24 hours. It is important that you rest as much as possible and take it easy during this period. Remember that this recovery period is for the procedure, not for the disease.

What Aftercare is Required?

You will be given specific aftercare instructions, which may include activity and diet restrictions. Your doctor may prescribe medicines. Make sure to take the medicines as directed. Some respiratory diseases require long-term care, which means that you need to see your doctor regularly. However, if you cannot travel to Cape Town multiple times. You can always choose to have these regular checkups with your local doctor.

What's the Success Rate?

The success rate of pulmonary and respiratory medicine procedures, both the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, are high. These procedures have also been proven to be safe. With advances in medical technology and a better understanding of the respiratory system, the success rate continues to increase, and the risks are becoming minimal. However, this does not mean that the procedures are free of risks. You need to be aware that, although very rare, complications such as lung collapse and bleeding can still occur.

Are there Alternatives?

In some cases, your general physician may be able to manage your disease so you do not need to see a pulmonologist. However, if they think that you need specialist care, they will still refer you to a pulmonologist. 

Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine in and around Cape Town

About Cape Town

Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa and is also known as the Mother City. It is the oldest city in the country and home to the Parliament of South Africa and is a major destination for immigrants and expatriates, making it one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Located on the shore of Table Bay, the city is known for its harbor, natural setting, as well as famous attractions and many tourists,  visit to enjoy Table Mountain and Cape Point. 

Recently, tourists also come to the city for its medical tourism. Many groundbreaking procedures and medical research in South Africa, such as the world’s first penile transplant, have put Cape Town under the radar of medical tourists from all around the globe. Thanks to its world-class healthcare and world-renowned medical practitioners, more and more people now prefer Cape Town as their medical destination. The healthcare in the city is among the best on the African continent. Other reasons such as shorter waiting times for surgeries, state-of-the-art equipment, and affordable healthcare compared to Europe and the United States, and English-speaking doctors. 

Popular Areas in Cape Town

Cape Town is a natural beauty that offers a wide range of things to do and see. From culture, food, art, to nature. Listed below are some of the more popular places in the city: 

• Table Mountain is one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and it is easy to see why. The iconic mountain makes an amazing backdrop to Cape Town. The level plateau is about 3 kilometers from side to side with remarkable cliffs on the edges. The peak offers an amazing view of the city. Tourists can choose to board the cable car or discover its beautiful nature by hiking.
• Cape of Good Hope is situated within the Table Mountain National Park. The area has a mix of bio-diversity and wonderful beauty that attracts thousands of tourists to visit. There are around 250 species of birds spotted in the area. Hiking and cycling through it is the best way to discover its true majesty. Tourists can picnic and birdwatch in isolated beaches. 
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most incredible botanic gardens in the world. Nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain, it features a natural forest and fynbos flora and sprawls around 528 hectares. The garden displays a collection of diverse South African plants with seasonal festivals such as musical sunset concerts during summer and craft markets on the last Sunday of every month. 
• Groot Constantia is the oldest wine-producing estate in South Africa, located in the suburb of Constantia. The estate consists of a museum, restaurants, tasting room, and cellars. The museum was built in Cape Dutch architecture style, further into the estate; tourists will find the free orientation center which provides an overview of Groot Constantia history. Tourists can also tour the original wine cellar, have a wine tasting, or a wine and chocolate pairing.
• Boulders Penguin Colony is located in Boulder Beach on the outskirts of Simon’s Town. The beach boasts fine white sand with pristine waters and endangered African penguin colonies. Tourists can set up camp, see the penguins up close, and even swim along with the magnificent aquatic birds. Observing the penguins socializing and playing in the waves is a perfect way to enjoy your travel in Cape Town. 

Weather and Climate in Cape Town

Cape Town enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate. The summer is dry and warm, lasting from early December to March. The average maximum temperature during this season is around 26 °C, and the minimum is 16 °C. The Berg Wind that arrives from February to early March can make the city uncomfortably hot for a couple of weeks. 

The winter starts in June and ends in August and the season is characterized by mild and wet weather. The city also experiences strong north-westerly winds during this season. The average temperature ranges between 8.5 °C at the lowest and 18 °C at the highest. 

Getting Around in Cape Town

The primary airport that serves Cape Town is the Cape Town International Airport and it is the second busiest airport in South Africa and the fifth busiest in Africa. The airport serves direct domestic flights to major cities and several small centers in the country. It also connects the country with major cities in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It is the hub for South African Express as well as budget airlines such as Mango and FlySafair.

There are several types of taxis: the metered taxis, Rikkis Taxis, and minibus taxis. The metered taxis can be a little expensive but are usually comfortable. Tourists can order one via a phone call or from one of the city’s official taxi stands. Tourists should always choose reputable taxi companies such as Marine Taxi, Unicab, Excite, and SA Cab. 

Rikkis Taxis are painted yellow and very popular and these taxis run on a fixed fare rather than metered, so they are a little more affordable than metered taxis and a good option if you are traveling on longer journeys. Other than the Rikkis Taxis, tourists can choose the minibus taxis which are perfect for adventurous foreign travelers. The minibus taxis can be found practically everywhere and are very cheap, however, you will need to know exactly where your destination is and tell the driver when to stop. Another travel option is the MyCiTi bus, a modernized and effective bus system.

Tourist Visas in Cape Town

There are more than 60 countries listed in the visa exemption agreements, which means the citizens of these countries can stay in South Africa for up to 90 days. Other countries not listed must obtain a valid visa to enter the country. A Medical Treatment Visa is available for medical tourists. Note that all visitors must hold a passport valid for at least 30 days after the expiration of their intended visit.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: South African Rand (ZAR) is the official currency and 1 USD converts to 14 ZAR.
2. Money & Payments: Tourists can find ATMs almost everywhere around the city, but you should avoid ATMs in secluded places, especially at night. Credit cards are accepted in established restaurants, hotels, and shops. It is always better to carry some cash because smaller food places are cash-only. Tipping is expected here.
3. Local Language: The most common languages in the city are English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa with Afrikaans as the most widely spoken home language.
4. Local Culture and Religion: The population follows Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and several other religions.
5. Public Holidays: There are 12 official public holidays in Cape Town, including New Year’s Day, Freedom Day, and Christmas.