When Your Breathing Issues Mean It’s Time to See a Pulmonary Doctor

Whether you are a long time sufferer of asthma, or if you have only recently noticed shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, having a pulmonary doctor on hand that you can trust can be of critical importance. A pulmonologist is a specialized doctor that treats issues related to the lungs or breathing. Here are a ffew reasons you should see a pulmonary specialist.

1. Any Breathing or Lung Problems

Anytime you have persistent shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or coughing fits, you may need to see a pulmonologist. Typically, you will se a general medicine doctor first who will refer you to a specialist.

2. Asthma-related Issues

If you have asthma, or suspect that you may, a pulmonary physician can diagnose and treat your condition. Since some forms of asthma are caused by allergies, you may also need to see an allergist or immune therapist to treat the allergies, however a pulmonologist is the perfect place to start.

3. Coughing and Vomiting

If you have fits of coughing followed by vomiting, it can be a sign of infection in the lungs, trachea, or brachial tubes. It can also be an early indicator of gastroesophageal reflux disease. An evaluation from your primary care physician is your best first step.

4. If Baby Has Respiratory Issues

Respiratory issues have been known to occur at birth. A pediatric pulmonologist can help diagnose and treat certain conditions that affect infants and toddlers, such as apnea, reflux and pneumonia. Although typically, with very young children, a pulmonologist will be onemember of a team of several doctors providing your baby’s care, such as a pediatrician, neurologist, and feeding specialist.

If you would like to know more about how pulmonary doctors can help you or your family, contact the physicians at Guadalupe Regional Medical Center by clicking here.