Pulmonology is a medical specialty that deals with the respiratory system, including the lungs and bronchi. Pulmonologists diagnose and treat a range of lung conditions, using techniques such as pulmonary function tests and medical imaging. They may also provide tailored treatment plans for specific conditions and offer second opinions.
Pulmonology is a branch of medicine that deals with the function of the respiratory system, including the lungs and bronchi. It is usually considered a specialty within the broader field of internal medicine, although pulmonology also intersects with critical care, emergency care, and cardiothoracic surgery. Specialists in this field are known as pulmonologists and may work in hospital, clinic and outpatient settings.
A number of conditions can be evaluated and treated by a pulmonologist, including inherited conditions affecting the lungs, lung trauma, chronic conditions, acquired diseases, infections, and cancers. Specialists in this field usually focus on keeping the airways open so patients can breathe freely. Keeping the airways open also makes the patient more comfortable, giving the doctor time to develop a treatment plan to manage or treat the condition that has caused impaired lung function.
Pulmonary specialists are usually consulted when it becomes apparent that a patient has a lung problem. While other doctors may treat lung conditions, pulmonary specialists have years of experience working with the lungs and are usually knowledgeable about the latest and most effective treatments. Some doctors choose to specialize in the management of a particular lung condition, such as cystic fibrosis or asthma, by developing tailored treatment plans for their patients. Others work more generally in pulmonology to provide a variety of treatments that can range from administering medications to managing a mechanical ventilator.
Pulmonologists may use a variety of techniques to diagnose and treat their patients. Pulmonary function tests can be used to evaluate basic lung function, while more invasive medical tests can be used to examine the lungs and bronchi, to take samples of specific areas of interest, and to measure response to treatment. Medical imaging offices are often used to get a picture of the area, and the specialist can work with an attending surgeon or doctor to coordinate a treatment plan for the patient.
Patients may also seek out a pulmonary specialist to address specific issues or to provide a second opinion. Many lung conditions have a variety of treatment approaches, and patients may find that some approaches are more effective than others for their specific needs. Seeking a second opinion can often provide more treatment options and more perspectives on the condition. When you see a pulmonary specialist for more information about a condition, it’s a good idea to bring all your medical records, including test results, with you.
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