Breathing is an essential mechanism. When it’s compromised, people may start to worry. Experiencing shortness of breath while walking or difficulty making it up a flight of stairs without pausing does, in fact, become a cause for concern. Respiratory issues like these need the guidance of a pulmonologist.
Pulmonary physicians treat various conditions involving the chest, including the lungs, windpipe and airways. If you’re currently living with respiratory issues, knowing when to seek professional help is important.
The following represent various reasons to visit a pulmonologist.
Longstanding Cough
Coughs are common with viral infections and allergies. Individuals often turn first to their primary care provider (PCP) or an urgent care facility for a solution. Typically, coughs are short-lived and resolve on their own. In some cases, a cough will continue despite intervention. The most common causes of chronic cough include tobacco use, acid reflux, post-nasal drip and asthma.
If a cough persists for several weeks or does not respond to care, the next step is seeing a pulmonologist. It’s advised not to wait too long as a chronic cough can cause restless nights, lightheadedness, vomiting and even cracked ribs.
Your PCP can help with the recommendation/referral to a pulmonologist. Or, patients with the appropriate insurance may be able to connect with a pulmonary specialist directly. If you’re not sure what your insurance covers, call your insurance company or the pulmonology office you plan to visit so they can help.
Asthma
Asthma affects a muscle surrounding airway tubes in the lung. When patients have asthma, that muscle is hypersensitive and spasms. This causes the airway tubes to narrow and makes breathing more difficult.
Oftentimes, asthma starts in childhood. Patients can “grow out of” their asthma. However, in some cases, they may think they’ve left asthma behind, but it manifests again later in life. With adult-onset asthma, patients experience their first symptoms as adults.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to asthma treatments. Some individuals suffer exacerbated symptoms due to environmental allergens. Smoking may also make symptoms worse.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a chronic condition that elicits symptoms such as:
- coughing and wheezing
- shortness of breath
- difficulty taking deep breaths
- excess amounts of phlegm
- chest pain/pressure
In the United States, COPD primarily arises due to smoking. In some countries, COPD is from long-term use of certain types of biomass for heating and cooking. COPD can also occur due to certain occupations, such as mining.
Like asthma, COPD causes the airways to narrow. Whereas the typical asthma patient may have good days and bad days, patients with COPD experience more persistent symptoms. In both cases, individuals can better their symptoms by quitting smoking and eliminating secondhand smoke in the home. Another tactic is to avoid environments with extreme dust and other particles.
How a Pulmonologist Can Help
During an appointment with the pulmonologist, a number of diagnostic events occur. The physician takes a detailed patient and family history. Next is a physical examination, with an emphasis on the throat and upper airway. They will also assess the chest area using a stethoscope. The pulmonologist will review any pertinent test results generated before the consultation.
Based on the entire assessment, they may prescribe medications such as inhalers, or pulmonary rehabilitation. If deemed necessary, the pulmonologist may ask for more tests.
It’s important to note that there’s no “quick fix” approach to pulmonary issues. Asthma and COPD are both chronic in nature. So, building a long-term relationship with a pulmonologist serves patients well.
If you or a loved one experience any of the above conditions and associated symptoms, speak with your primary care provider. They can provide insights and next steps. Of course, an emergency room visit is likely in order if you’re ever faced with extreme shortness of breath or chest pain/pressure.
Listen to a Podcast
Living with respiratory issues doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. Working with a pulmonary expert is a viable solution. In this podcast, we speak with Dr. Peter Olivieri, a board-certified pulmonary and critical care physician, to explore the many options available. Dr. Olivieri also provides tips individuals can put in place to reduce symptom severity. Download a copy from our website or listen below.
More to Read
- 5 Tips for Healthy Lungs
- Why (and How) to Quit Smoking
- How are Allergies and Asthma Connected?
- Lung Cancer Symptoms Are Not Always Obvious
