Have you been experiencing difficulty breathing? These past two years of COVID-19 have not been so easy, especially for those who have comorbidities and for the elderly. There’s been a lot of news about coughs, flu, shortness of breath, hospitalization, and even death.
What Is a Pulmonologist?
So, what should be the first thing to do if you feel you have trouble breathing? If it’s a short-lasting case, like a flu or cough, your regular doctor may help you take care of it. But, if your condition is not improving, the best thing to do is see a pulmonologist.
A pulmonologist is a physician who diagnoses and treats respiratory system diseases, like in the lungs and other organs that help you breathe.
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How Do Pulmonologists Help Seniors with Their Respiratory System?
Pulmonologists treat patients who have problems with their respiratory system. In order to do this, pulmonologists use tests to learn what kind of illness or lung problem you have. Some of the tests they might run are as follows:
- Blood test
- Bronchoscopy
- X-rays
- CT Scan
- Spirometry
- Pulmonary hygiene
- Airway ablation
- Biopsy
According to research, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a type of lung disease, is one of the top ten most common chronic conditions among older adults. 11% of older adults in the United States are treated for COPD. Because of this, pulmonologists have a significant role in helping seniors.
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What Diseases Do Pulmonologists Treat?
Below is the list of conditions that a pulmonologist treats:
- Asthma – A disease that inflames and narrows your airways and makes it difficult for you to breathe
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – A group of lung diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
- Cystic Fibrosis – A disease caused by changes in your genes that causes sticky mucus to build up in your lungs.
- Emphysema – A disease that damages the air sacs in your lungs.
- Interstitial Lung Disease – A group of conditions that scar and stiffen your lungs.
- Lung Cancer – A type of cancer that starts in the lungs.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea – A disease that causes repeated pauses in your breathing while you sleep.
- Pulmonary Hypertension – High blood pressure in the lungs.
- Tuberculosis – A bacterial infection in the lungs.
- Bronchiectasis – A disease that damages your airways, so they widen and become flabby or scarred.
- Bronchitis – When your airways are inflamed, accompanied by cough and mucus. Later on, this condition can lead to infection.
- Pneumonia – An illness that makes the air sacs in your lungs inflamed and filled with pus.
- COVID-19 Pneumonia – A disease that causes severe breathing problems, later on, respiratory failure.
Learn more about our Pulmonology & Respiratory care services.
When Should You Visit a Pulmonologist?
You should see a pulmonologist when:
- You have difficulty breathing.
- You have a persistent cough or one that lasts more than three weeks.
- You have chest pain that gets worse with coughing, deep breathing, sneezing, or laughing.
- You experience wheezing, dizziness, or severe tiredness.
- You have asthma that is hard to control.
- You have bronchitis or a cold that keeps coming back.
- You regularly smoke.
- You experience an abnormal voice change.
- You have consistently coughed up blood or mucus.
- You have unexplained weight loss.
- You have issues exercising due to breathing difficulties.
Reach Out to Embassy Healthcare for Pulmonary Consultations
It is not a choice but a must to see a pulmonologist when you get older. This will help you watch over your health and avoid any problems in the future. Contact Embassy Healthcare if you’re looking for a pulmonologist and want to receive help for pulmonary consultations. We are ready to assist you.
