Pulmonologists help people with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma.
A pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases related to the lungs and respiratory system. Review diagnostic tests, investigate symptoms, consult with other professionals, and administer appropriate treatments. This professional has the ability to help patients with chronic illnesses, such as asthma, as well as acute complications of respiratory failure. Pulmonologists can work in many different settings, including general hospitals, emergency care centers, and private clinics. Because the lungs are such complex and delicate organs, such a doctor must spend several years in medical school and residency programs to gain experience in the field.
A pulmonologist focuses on the lungs and respiratory system.
When seeing a patient with a chronic condition, the pulmonologist first identifies the physical symptoms through a careful physical exam. You can use a stethoscope to listen to your lungs, a bronchoscope to see inside your airways, or a spirometer to measure your lung capacity. After identifying the symptoms, the doctor may decide to perform imaging blood tests to make a differential diagnosis. By investigating the possibilities and keeping careful records of the tests performed, you can usually determine the exact causes of a patient’s problems.
A pulmonologist can use a spirometer to measure lung capacity.
A pulmonologist can help people with bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, cancer, or other chronic illnesses by prescribing medication or recommending surgery. In an emergency situation, the doctor may administer oxygen therapy or CPR to prevent a life-threatening problem. He or she may decide to put a patient on a mechanical ventilator until the problem is resolved. After treatment, the medical professional usually schedules regular check-ups with patients to monitor their condition and make sure that breathing problems do not recur.
A general practitioner may refer patients with respiratory problems to a pulmonologist.
A person who wishes to become a pulmonologist must receive a Doctor of Medicine degree from an accredited four-year medical school. Upon graduation, a new doctor typically enters a one-year internship program at a general hospital or emergency room to gain hands-on experience treating patients. A three-year residency program in internal medicine follows an internship, during which the physician works under the supervision of experienced physicians. Finally, a doctor spends two to four years on a pulmonary medicine fellowship to master her skills.
A pulmonologist can listen to the patient’s lungs during diagnosis.
Completion of a fellowship qualifies a new physician to take a licensing exam administered by a regional or national board. Board certification is required before he or she can begin to practice independently. Licensed physicians often enjoy many job opportunities in hospitals and clinics, and some professionals are able to open successful private practices right away.