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
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Pneumonia
Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Bronchitis
Interstitial Lung Disease
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Pleural Effusion
Pulmonary Embolism
Bronchiectasis
Symptoms That Require a Pulmonologist
Chronic Cough
Wheezing
Breathlessness
Coughing Blood
Chest Tightness
Noisy Breathing
Snoring
Reduced Exercise Tolerance
Procedures & Treatments
Spirometry
Chest X-ray
Bronchoscopy
Nebulisation
Inhaler Technique Training
Cpap Therapy
Pleural Tapping
Oxygen Therapy
Pulmonary Function Test
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