Pulmonology

Pulmonologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disorders, including conditions such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and sleep apnea. They perform diagnostic tests, interpret imaging studies, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.

You should consider seeing a pulmonologist if you experience persistent respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, or if you have been diagnosed with a lung condition that requires specialized care. Your primary care physician can refer you to a pulmonologist if necessary.

During your initial visit, the pulmonologist will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as pulmonary function tests, chest X-rays, or CT scans to assess your lung function and identify any abnormalities. Based on the findings, they will discuss treatment options and develop a management plan with you.

Pulmonologists may prescribe medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, or antibiotics to manage respiratory conditions. They may also recommend lifestyle modifications, pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen therapy, or surgical interventions such as lung resection or lung transplant for certain conditions.

To maintain lung health and reduce the risk of lung disease, it's important to avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke, pollutants, and environmental toxins. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good hygiene, getting vaccinated against respiratory infections such as influenza and pneumonia, and following safety precautions in occupational settings can also help prevent lung disease.

Yes, pulmonologists often diagnose and treat sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome. They may conduct sleep studies (polysomnography) to evaluate sleep patterns and breathing abnormalities and prescribe therapies such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for sleep apnea.

Lung cancer is treatable, especially if detected early. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. Pulmonologists work closely with oncologists and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans for patients with lung cancer. Early detection through screening programs can improve outcomes and survival rates.