Are you a lost med student who’s looking for specialization? If so, this article is for you.
Keep reading to discover what is a lung doctor called and the treatments they use to solve all respiratory-related issues!
What Is a Lung Doctor Called? The Answer is A Pulmonologist!
A pulmonologist is a doctor certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine to diagnose and treat lung patients. The process of becoming a pulmonologist is quite time-consuming:
- Their training starts with a medical school degree, followed by a three-year fellowship in internal medicine residency at a hospital.
- They are then certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in internal medicine.
- After specialized training in pulmonary medicine, they must pass specialty exams to become board-certified in pulmonology.
Due to its high scope, doctors get training in lung transplantation, Interventional Pulmonary surgery, and Pulmonary hypertension.
Well, What is Pulmonology Then?
Pulmonology is a medical specialty that deals with diseases related to the respiratory tract.
These diseases include asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, and other interstitial lung diseases involving airway narrowing.
What Lung Diseases Do Pulmonologists Diagnose & How?
Pulmonologists diagnose multiple lung diseases that affect the respiratory system, including cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, and illnesses like asthma. They assess lung function through spirometry, X-rays, blood tests, and CT scans and collect samples to analyze mucus..
In severe illnesses, such as COVID-19 pneumonia, patients may require intensive care. where diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy help visualize the windpipe.
Pulmonologists often repeat these tests to monitor patient’s progress.
The Three Conditions Pulmonologists Treat
A pulmonologist may specialize in three common respiratory conditions that are;
- Lung Cancer
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asthma
When Should You See a Pulmonologist?
Have you ever had a cough that wouldn’t go away, even after your cold? That could be a sign that it’s time you need to see a pulmonologist!
Below are some symptoms you have that may indicate an immediate checkup.
Chest Pain or Breathing Trouble: If you feel a sharp pain in your chest or find it hard to take a deep breath, it’s important to get checked out.
Wheezing: That whistling noise when you breathe, called wheezing, can be a clue that your lungs need a checkup. It can mean the air isn’t flowing like it should be.
Dizziness: Feeling like you might pass out could be linked to not getting enough air. A pulmonologist can help figure out why this is happening.
Frequent Bronchitis or Colds: Catching many colds or bronchitis that make breathing tough can indicate a bigger lung problem. A lung specialist can get to the bottom of it.
Asthma Not Improving: If you have asthma and your usual medicine isn’t helping, a lung doctor can offer other treatments that might work better for you.
How To Find a Pulmonologist?
Finding a lung specialist begins with a discussion with your primary care doctor. Get a referral based on their network and experience with specialists. Knowing your health history, they can refer you to a pulmonologist based on your needs.
Next, check with your health insurance provider. They usually have a directory of approved doctors, which can help ensure your visits are covered and more affordable. Look specifically for pulmonologists within this list, then take your search online.
Remember, your health can’t wait. If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing or other severe symptoms, getting medical attention sooner is essential.
Now You Know What These Doctors Are Called!
Knowing what a lung doctor is called is such a relief, considering you might need to see one when feeling under the weather. So stay healthy and prevent going through this boring critical care situation!