who focuses on the lungs and respiratory system — the organs that make breathing possible. When you experience ongoing shortness of breath, chest pain, or a persistent cough, a pulmonologist can help identify the cause and create an effective treatment plan.
During a pulmonology consultation, the doctor begins by reviewing your complete medical history, including smoking habits, allergies, medications, and family background. Understanding these details helps determine whether your symptoms may be linked to chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), interstitial lung disease, or pulmonary hypertension.
Next, the pulmonologist performs a physical examination. Using a stethoscope, the doctor listens carefully to your chest for abnormal lung sounds such as wheezing, crackles, or diminished airflow. These subtle cues help pinpoint where the problem lies within the lungs or airways.
To further investigate, the pulmonologist may recommend specialized tests such as:
- Chest X-rays or CT scans to look for infections, scarring, or fluid buildup.
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) to measure how well your lungs move air and absorb oxygen.
- Blood tests or oxygen level checks to assess how effectively your body is circulating oxygen.
- Bronchoscopy, if a direct view of the airways or tissue samples are needed for accurate diagnosis.
