Pulmonologist – Why Consulting a Specialist Matters
A Pulmonologist (also called a Respirologist) is a specialist in diseases of the lungs and respiratory system. They manage conditions like asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), pneumonia, tuberculosis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and lung cancer. Pulmonologists perform bronchoscopy, pulmonary function tests (spirometry), and thoracentesis. They also manage patients on mechanical ventilation in ICUs. Sleep medicine (for sleep apnea) and critical care are major areas of pulmonology.
Conditions Treated
Asthma
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Tuberculosis (TB)
Pneumonia
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Interstitial Lung Disease
Pulmonary Hypertension
Lung Cancer
Sleep Apnea
Pleural Effusion (Fluid Around Lungs)
COVID-19 Lung Complications
Symptoms That Require a Pulmonologist
Persistent cough for 3+ weeks
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Coughing blood (hemoptysis)
Chest tightness
Excessive daytime sleepiness (sleep apnea)
Unexplained weight loss
Procedures & Treatments
Spirometry (PFT)
Bronchoscopy
CT Chest
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Thoracentesis (Pleural Fluid Removal)
Sleep Study
Oxygen Therapy
Nebulization Treatment
When Should You See a Pulmonologist?
- Cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Shortness of breath on mild activity
- Wheezing not controlled by inhaler
- Coughing blood
- TB diagnosis or contact history
- Snoring and daytime sleepiness
Qualifications to Look For
MBBS
MD (Pulmonary Medicine)
DM (Pulmonology)
Fellowship in Critical Care / Sleep Medicine