Pulmonologist: what they do and when to see one

When a cough persists for weeks and shortness of breath appears on a familiar staircase, it is easy to get confused about whom to see: a general practitioner, an allergist, or a lung doctor. Pulmonology is a branch of medicine that studies, diagnoses, and treats diseases of the lungs and lower respiratory tract: the bronchi and trachea. Let us calmly explain what this specialist does and at what point a visit should not be postponed.

Who a pulmonologist is and what they do

A pulmonologist is a doctor who treats diseases of the lungs and lower respiratory tract. Pulmonology is usually considered a branch of internal medicine, but it is closely linked to critical care and intensive care: some patients require mechanical ventilation. In different countries, the specialty is called "thoracic medicine" or "respiratory medicine." Surgery on the airways is performed by cardiothoracic surgeons.

Which symptoms lead people to see a lung doctor

The reason for a consultation is breathing problems. In asthma, these include wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, and a feeling of chest tightness; symptoms may be mild or severe, usually come and go, and often worsen at night and early in the morning. They can be triggered by physical exertion, high levels of air pollution, cold air, or contact with an allergen — pollen, dust, mold, or animals. Asthma most often begins in childhood but can develop at any age.

Which lung and bronchial diseases fall within their scope

Pulmonology covers bronchial asthma, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis and tracheobronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with emphysema and pneumosclerosis, cystic fibrosis, pneumothorax, pulmonary hypertension, sarcoidosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and sleep apnea. Lung cancer and histiocytosis X fall within pulmonology only in terms of diagnosis. Infections are considered separately — influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis — along with other breathing disorders; some lung diseases can lead to respiratory failure.

Which doctor to see for asthma

Diagnosis usually begins with a general practitioner (a therapist or family doctor): they ask questions and auscultate the chest, and may offer a simple breathing test and a peak flow meter for home measurements. Diagnosis can take time because symptoms change and the causes of breathing problems vary. A specialist is sometimes involved in asthma monitoring. Chronic bronchitis and tracheobronchitis fall within the scope of pulmonology.

Which tests a pulmonologist may order

Tests for lung diseases include a number of investigations that help assess how the lungs are working.

• pulmonary function testing and spirometry;
• pulse oximetry — measurement of blood oxygen saturation;
• blood tests and blood gas tests;
• bronchoscopy with lavage;
• lung biopsy and chest imaging.

When a visit to a specialist cannot be postponed

If an asthma attack has eased, see a doctor within two days to discuss treatment and prevent another attack. Do not postpone the visit when symptoms do not improve, interfere with daily life, or wake you at night.

Difficulty breathing alone is not always a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if during an asthma attack you get worse, do not feel better after using an inhaler, or do not have an inhaler. Until the ambulance arrives, do not stay alone.

This material is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation: if in doubt, it is better to see a specialist.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer