What Is a Pulmonologist?
A pulmonologist is a physician who specializes in caring for the lungs, airways, and other organs of the respiratory system. Because many heart and lung diseases share symptoms, pulmonologists often work with cardiologists (heart doctors) on interconnected cardiopulmonary conditions. The goal of pulmonology is to prevent lung disease and related disorders if possible, and to treat them effectively when they occur.
Pulmonologists are extensively educated, completing four years of medical school, a residency in internal medicine, and additional years of training in their specialty. Prior to practicing, they are licensed and board certified by a professional governing body. They maintain this certification throughout their career with supplemental training and testing.
What Does a Pulmonologist Do?
Pulmonologists diagnose and treat a wide range of respiratory symptoms and conditions, including:
- Asthma
- Berylliosis
- Black lung disease
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Emphysema
- Interstitial lung disease
- Lung cancer
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Silicosis
- Tuberculosis
They accomplish this through doctor-patient interaction, conducting physical exams, ordering tests, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and arranging for specialized medical care, including most surgeries. Pulmonologists also recommend lifestyle changes as a form of preventive medicine, for example, tobacco cessation and regular exercise.
Pulmonologists are found in both private-office and hospital settings. Many are also involved in university-based research programs.
What Types of Pulmonologists Are There?
Pulmonologists are trained in one or more specialties:
- Cystic fibrosis: A focus on a major respiratory disease with a strong hereditary component.
- Interstitial lung disease: A specialization in inflammatory lung disorders.
- Interventional pulmonology: Expertise in the use of endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques for treating various lung conditions.
- Occupational lung diseases: Treatment of lung diseases that are caused or exacerbated by environmental or job-related factors.
- Pulmonary hypertension: A focus on the impact of hypertension (high blood pressure) on the respiratory system.
- Pulmonary oncology: Expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: Therapeutic techniques for improving breathing and oxygen intake of persons with chronic lung conditions.
- Sleep medicine: Treatment of sleep disorders, many of which have a respiratory facet.
When Should You See a Pulmonologist?
You should see a pulmonologist whenever you experience the symptoms commonly associated with a lung or respiratory disease:
- Asthmatic conditions
- Chest pain
- Chronic bronchitis
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Labored breathing
- Persistent cough (three weeks or more)
- Wheezing
You may also want to see a pulmonologist if you have a family history of lung disease, especially on reaching middle age.
What Can I Expect at My Visit to a Pulmonologist?
A visit to a pulmonologist will begin like any other medical visit. He or she will conduct a physical exam, ask about your symptoms, and record your family history. As part of the exam, he or she will document your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and glucose (blood sugar) levels. The pulmonologist will also ask you lifestyle questions, for example, whether you smoke or vape, or whether you have contact with respiratory irritants at work or home (for example, secondhand smoke).
Your pulmonologist may diagnose your condition based on this information, or he or she may order further tests, such as:
- Imaging exams (chest X-rays or CT scans)
- Bronchoscopy
- Pulmonary function tests
- Spirometry
- Sleep study
On confirming a diagnosis, your pulmonologist can prescribe medications that are appropriate for your condition and arrange for any additional specialist care, for example, minimally invasive surgery.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a family medical history that concerns you, the Baptist Health pulmonary team is ready to serve. For more information, visit our Pulmonary Care page or call 502-259-6000.
Pulmonologist FAQs
Are pulmonologists heart doctors?
No. Pulmonologists are doctors who specialize in caring for medical conditions of the lungs and other respiratory organs. Specialists in the heart and cardiovascular system are called cardiologists.
Do pulmonologists also perform surgery?
Pulmonologists are not surgeons though many perform minimally invasive procedures using endoscopes and similar devices. Thoracic surgeons typically conduct major operations of the chest cavity. However, some pulmonologists specialize in lung transplantation, which is a form of major surgery.
Do I need a referral to see a pulmonologist?
This depends largely on the type of insurance or healthcare coverage that you have. Many plans require referrals from a primary care physician to see specialists, including pulmonologists, though some do not.