What Does a Pulmonologist Do?

When visiting a pulmonologist for the first time, patients can expect a comprehensive assessment aimed at understanding their respiratory health concerns. The initial visit typically starts with a detailed discussion of the patient’s medical history, including any symptoms experienced, their duration, and factors that may alleviate or exacerbate these symptoms. Lifestyle factors such as smoking history and occupational hazards are also heavily weighed given their documented impact on respiratory health. Following the discussion of medical history, a physical examination is conducted, focusing on the respiratory system. The pulmonologist will often listen to your lungs for any abnormal sounds, check for any swelling that may be indicative of fluid accumulation, and assess breathing efficiency. Diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs), X-rays, and even blood tests, may be ordered to further investigate the nature and severity of the respiratory issue. This comprehensive approach ensures that the pulmonologist has a clear understanding of the patient’s condition, facilitating accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Pulmonologists specialize in treating a wide range of conditions that affect the lungs and respiratory system. Three common conditions they manage include Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer. COPD is labeled as a progressive disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs and is primarily caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants that damage airways. Asthma is a chronic condition seen as the inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which gives rise to wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Lung cancer, one of the most serious conditions seen and treated by pulmonologists, involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs, often due to smoking but can also occur in non-smokers. Pulmonologists use a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and, in some cases, surgical interventions with the help of a thoracic surgeon to manage these conditions, aiming to improve quality of life and respiratory function. If you have any concerns about your or a family member’s respiratory health, it is always advised to reach out and discuss with the appropriate healthcare professionals.

The terms “respiratory doctor” and “pulmonary doctor” are very commonly used interchangeably as they generally refer to the same medical specialty focused on the lungs and respiratory system. Pulmonologists, or pulmonary doctors, have specially studied and trained to treat and diagnose conditions that affect the lungs and airways, such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. The term “respiratory doctor” is generally a broader descriptor that may also encompass healthcare professionals working in respiratory care who may help with treatments and procedures to support breathing. For example, a surgeon working to remove a lung tumor may be more generally referred to as a respiratory doctor or surgeon by some. In essence, while a respiratory doctor may be used to refer to any medical professional focusing on respiratory health, a pulmonologist specifically refers to a medical doctor with specialized training in pulmonary medicine.

The most common pulmonary disease is believed to be Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD. This disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and affects millions of individuals. It encompasses a group of lung conditions, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that leads to obstructed airflow from the lungs and further breathing difficulties. There are risk factors for developing COPD that people should be aware of; these primarily include tobacco smoke, exposure to air pollutants, and genetics in some cases. Symptoms can often be seen as a persistent cough, production of phlegm, wheezing, and shortness of breath, especially during physical activities. Early diagnosis and management are critical to slowing the progression of the disease and improving the quality of life for those affected, and this is where specialized physicians can help. Specifically, pulmonologists play a key role in diagnosing COPD through function tests, imaging studies, and managing the condition with a combination of medication, rehabilitation, and lifestyle re-evaluation. Again, if you believe you are experiencing COPD symptoms, or at a higher risk of developing COPD, it is essential that you speak to a physician to take the appropriate steps to mitigate the condition.

Dr. Luis J. Mesa, MD provides diagnoses and treats a wide range of pulmonary diseases. We serve patients from Hallandale Beach FL, Aventura FL, Hollywood FL, Golden Glades FL, Miramar FL, Hialeah FL, Fort Lauderdale FL, and BEYOND.