What diseases do pulmonologists treat?

What diseases do pulmonologists treat?

Diseases commonly evaluated and treated by pulmonologists include asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), emphysema, lung cancer, interstitial and occupational lung diseases, complex lung and pleural infections including tuberculosis, pulmonary hypertension, and cystic fibrosis.

What does a pulmonologist diagnose?

A pulmonologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases of the respiratory system — the lungs and other organs that help you breathe. For some relatively short-lasting illnesses that affect your lungs, like the flu or pneumonia, you might be able to get all the care you need from your regular doctor.

Is a pulmonologist the same as a lung doctor?

A pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in lung conditions. A pulmonologist diagnoses and treats diseases of the respiratory system. You might hear these healthcare providers called lung doctors, lung specialists or chest doctors.

Do pulmonologists do surgery?

Most of the time pulmonologists do not perform surgeries, but they can, and do, perform biopsies. A pulmonologist may also be called in to evaluate or treat traumatic injuries to the chest. A pulmonologist may also perform other tests, such as an angiogram, that uses dye to test the arteries that serve the lungs.

What are the early signs of lung disease?

Common signs are:

  • Trouble breathing.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Feeling like you’re not getting enough air.
  • Decreased ability to exercise.
  • A cough that won’t go away.
  • Coughing up blood or mucus.
  • Pain or discomfort when breathing in or out.

When should I see a pulmonologist?

If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, a chronic cough, unexplained weight loss, or consistently have trouble sleeping, you may have a pulmonary condition requiring a specialist called a pulmonologist.

Can lung disease be detected by blood test?

Blood tests can help your doctor determine whether your symptoms are being caused by an infection or some other medical condition. An arterial blood gas test will measure the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood. This is one indication of how well your lungs are working.

What procedures do pulmonologists do?

Pulmonary Medicine They are expert in advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including robotic bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, pleuroscopy and comprehensive evaluation of airway conditions.

Do your lungs heal?

Your lungs are self-cleaning, which means they will gradually heal and regenerate on their own after you quit smoking. However, there are certain lifestyle behaviors you can practice to try and accelerate the rate at which your lungs heal.

Can you live without lungs?

Although it is possible to live without a lung, there are a few risks involved. A study in the Journal of Cancer notes that pneumonectomy, or the surgery to remove one of the lungs, is a high risk surgery that can lead to complications and even death.