A Pulmonologist is a healthcare professional who specializes in pulmonary care or lung care. Pulmonologists diagnose, treat, and research pulmonary diseases and problems. They may have special knowledge of other types of internal medicine and specialties, as well, and they work closely with other doctors to help make patients comfortable and improve their health.
In order to become a Pulmonologist, a person must graduate from an undergraduate program and then go on to attend medical school. After graduating from medical school, the doctor must complete an accredited internal medicine residency program. After residency, one must complete a 2-3 years of fellowship in Pulmonary diseases. During a fellowship, the doctor works under the careful watch of an experienced Pulmonologist at a hospital or clinic to gain experience and pursue a career in Pulmonary diseases.
Pulmonologists treat illnesses and diseases that affect the lungs. These can range from severe diseases to mild infections. Some of the most common illnesses that they treat include:
Pulmonologists use a variety of tests to diagnose lung diseases and illnesses. They might order the tests from other doctors or specialists or conduct them themselves. Some of the most common diagnostic tests used include:
Pulmonologists can specialize in several different areas. Some of these areas include:
Pulmonologists use a variety of treatments to help their patients and prevent them from suffering from lung diseases and illnesses. Each disease or illness requires a different type of treatment. Some of these treatments include:
Some of the reasons to see a Pulmonologist include: