Pulmonology

Pulmonology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the respiratory system — the lungs, bronchi, and airways. A pulmonologist helps patients with chronic cough, shortness of breath, recurrent infections, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Early consultation helps avoid complications, select appropriate treatment, and improve breathing comfort.

Indications for a pulmonology consultation

You should consider seeing a pulmonologist when symptoms suggest impaired respiratory function. The most common indications include:

• chronic cough lasting more than 8 weeks,
• recurrent respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, or pneumonia,
• exertional or resting shortness of breath,
• wheezing, episodes of breathlessness, nocturnal cough,
• suspected asthma, COPD, or respiratory allergies,
• prolonged hoarseness or a feeling of “lack of air”,
• cough combined with weight loss, fever, or hemoptysis.

A pulmonologist may also assess lung function after COVID-19 or other severe infections and help diagnose abnormalities detected on chest X-ray or CT scan.

What does a consultation involve?

During a pulmonology consultation, the physician takes a detailed medical history regarding symptoms, lifestyle, and habits (e.g. smoking), as well as past illnesses. A physical examination is then performed, and if necessary, additional diagnostic tests may be ordered, such as:

• spirometry or spirometry with bronchodilator test,
• chest X-ray,
• chest CT scan,
• allergy tests (skin or blood tests),
• pulse oximetry and assessment of respiratory function,
• pulmonary function tests.

The visit may end with treatment initiation, selection of inhalation therapy, instruction on inhaler technique, or referral for further tests.

How to prepare for the consultation

• Bring previous test results, especially chest X-rays, CT scans, spirometry, or allergy tests.
• Prepare a list of current medications, especially inhaled, antiallergic, and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• If you smoke, note the duration and intensity of the habit, as this will be helpful during evaluation.
• Write down your most common symptoms, their duration, and situations in which they worsen (e.g. exertion, night, exposure to allergens).