Pulmonology Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pulmonologist?
Apulmonologistis a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders and conditions of the respiratory system, including:
- autoimmune disorders
- cancer treatment
- infectious diseases
- inflammation
- structural problems
Though the lungs usually come to mind first when talking about pulmonology, the respiratory system is made of several parts, including:
- bronchial tubes
- diaphragm
- lungs
- mouth and nose
- sinuses
- throat (pharynx)
- voicebox (larynx)
- windpipe (trachea)
Pulmonologists treat several kinds of respiratory conditions, including:
- acute bronchitis: inflammation of the airways accompanied by a cough and mucus
- asthma: a condition that causes inflammation and the narrowing of your airways
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): a group of lung diseases that makes it hard to breathe
- COVID-19 pneumonia: a condition that causes severe breathing problems and lung failure
- cystic fibrosis: a condition that produces mucus buildup in your airways and lungs
- interstitial lung disease: several conditions that cause lung scarring and stiffening
- lung cancer: a type of cancer that can start in or spread to your lungs
- pneumonia: a respiratory infection that causes fluid buildup in your lung’s air sacs
- pulmonary hypertension: high blood pressure that affects your lung’s arteries
- tuberculosis (TB): a bacterial infection of your lungs
Pulmonologists perform several tests, including imaging tests used to diagnose and understand the respiratory issues you are experiencing. These tests include:
- blood tests: tests used to check your blood’s oxygen levels
- bronchoscopy: a device that looks inside your lungs and airways
- chest ultrasound: imaging that examines the organs and structures in your chest
- CT scans: diagnostic images of your lungs and respiratory system
- spirometry: a test that measures how well your lungs work
In addition to testing and imaging, a pulmonologist performs several procedures that can help improve the function of your lungs. Some common procedures include:
- airway ablation: a procedure that opens blocked air passages
- biopses: the collection of a tissue sample for disease screening
- pulmonary hygiene: a procedure that clears fluid and mucus buildup from your lungs
For many minor concerns or symptoms of the respiratory system, you’ll receive care from your primary care physician (PCP). Your PCP will usually refer you to a pulmonologist if you’re experiencing the following:
- a cough that regularly produces blood or mucus
- a persistent or worsening cough
- difficulty breathing
- unexplained weight loss
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a pulmonologist may refer you to a pulmonary surgeon who specializes in treating your condition.