A pulmonologist is a health specialist who treats conditions affecting men, women, and children’s respiratory systems. The providers at Pulmonary Associates of Richmond want to share an overview of pulmonary care so that you can make the most informed decisions about your healthcare providers.
What Entails The Respiratory System?
The respiratory system is responsible for helping you breathe, and it entails a network of organs, and tissues. The system has three parts, which are; the airway, lungs, and the respiratory muscles.
The airway consists of mouth, nose, pharynx, larynx (throat), trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. A good pulmonologist can deal with any issue that may affect the parts mentioned above.
When should you see a pulmonologist?
You do not need to rush to see a pulmonologist once you get a simple cough, and the first stop should be at your primary care doctor. The doctor can recommend you visit the pulmonologist if you experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Persistent cough which has blood/mucus
- Excessive weight loss
- Breathing problems making it difficult to work/exercise
If you are a chronic smoker, it would be best to visit a pulmonologist if you experience any issue with your respiratory system.
How Does A Pulmonologist Diagnose A Patient?
If you visit a pulmonologist, after experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, the specialist will diagnose you using the following methods:
- CT scan- The scan allows the specialist to get clear images of the bones, muscles, organs, and blood vessels in your chest.
- X-ray test- Using the x-ray test, the doctor can monitor how your lungs are functioning.
- Sleep study- If you have breathing problems while sleeping, the pulmonologist will conduct a sleep study, and diagnose the condition you have.
- Pulmonary Function Test- a breathing test to identify how your lungs are functioning.
What Conditions Can Be Treated?
There are several conditions that the pulmonologist can treat, and they include:
- Asthma- a long-term disorder that tends to cause difficulty in breathing.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchitis- a condition caused by the inflammation of the airways.
- Allergies- Some people may experience respiratory system issues due to inhalation of chemicals, dust, or pollen.
A pulmonologist is the best option when it comes to dealing with any respiratory condition. At Pulmonary Associates of Richmond, our providers have decades of experience diagnosing and treating pulmonary diseases. Schedule an appointment today and start to live better and breathe better!