A pulmonologist may be appropriate when breathing symptoms are persistent, recurrent, difficult to control or affecting daily activities. Consultation may be recommended for ongoing cough, unexplained breathlessness, recurrent chest infections, persistent wheezing, abnormal chest imaging or suspected conditions such as asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease or sleep-related breathing disorders. Patients with known lung disease may also benefit from specialist care when symptoms worsen or treatment is no longer providing adequate control.

Pulmonologists diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. These include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia and other respiratory infections, bronchitis, interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary fibrosis, sleep-related breathing disorders and certain pulmonary vascular conditions. Specialists may also evaluate persistent cough, unexplained breathlessness and abnormalities detected on chest imaging. Treatment depends on the underlying condition and may involve medicines, inhaled therapies, oxygen, rehabilitation, procedures or other specialized care.

The tests used depend on the symptoms and suspected condition. Common investigations include chest X-rays and CT scans, blood tests and pulmonary function tests such as spirometry, which measures how much air a person can breathe in and out and how quickly. Oxygen levels may also be assessed, sometimes using pulse oximetry or blood tests. Depending on the clinical situation, specialists may recommend bronchoscopy, sleep studies, allergy testing or other specialized investigations to establish a diagnosis and guide treatment.

Treatment depends on the specific respiratory condition and its severity. Asthma and COPD may be managed with inhaled medicines that open the airways or reduce inflammation, alongside trigger avoidance, vaccination, pulmonary rehabilitation and other measures where appropriate. Respiratory infections may require supportive treatment or specific medicines depending on their cause. More complex lung diseases may require oxygen therapy, specialized medicines, procedures or rehabilitation. A pulmonologist develops treatment according to the diagnosis, symptoms, lung function and individual patient needs.

Not all respiratory diseases can be prevented, but several measures can help protect lung health. Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke is one of the most important steps. Reducing exposure to occupational dust, fumes and other air pollutants can also help. Staying physically active, maintaining good overall health and keeping recommended vaccinations up to date can reduce certain respiratory risks. People with asthma or other chronic lung conditions should follow their treatment plan and learn how to recognize changes in symptoms early.

Severe or sudden breathing difficulty requires prompt medical attention. Seek emergency care if shortness of breath is severe or rapidly worsening, particularly if it occurs with chest pain, fainting, confusion, bluish lips or skin, severe wheezing or coughing up significant amounts of blood. A sudden inability to speak normally because of breathlessness or a marked drop in oxygen levels can also indicate a medical emergency. People with known lung conditions should follow their clinician's emergency plan and seek immediate help when symptoms are substantially worse than usual.