Diagnosis 

Diseases commonly diagnosed and treated by pulmonologists include: 

• Asthma 
• Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) 
• Emphysema 
• Lung cancer 
• Interstitial and occupational lung diseases 
• Complex lung and pleural infections including tuberculosis, pulmonary hypertension, and cystic fibrosis 

As part of a multidisciplinary group practice, our pulmonologists provide consultation services to our other physicians and longitudinally monitor patients with respiratory disease. In addition, they offer diagnostic and treatment services for sleep-disordered breathing (such as sleep apnea). 

Symptoms 

Some of the symptoms include: 

Chronic cough: A cough that has lasted for at least eight weeks is considered chronic. This is a significant early symptom that indicates a problem with the respiratory system. 

Shortness of breath: It is not normal to feel breathlessness that persists after exercise or that occurs with minimal or no effort. Another warning indication is labored or difficult breathing, or the sensation that it is difficult to breathe in or out. 

Chronic mucus production: The airways create mucus, also known as sputum or phlegm, as a defense against infections or irritants. If you've been producing mucus for a month or longer, this could be a sign of lung disease. 

The presence of wheezing indicates that something abnormal is obstructing or narrowing the airways in your lungs. 

If you are coughing up blood, it could be originating from your lungs or upper respiratory tract. Regardless of its origin, it indicates a health problem. 

Chronic chest pain: Unexplained chest pain lasting a month or longer, especially if it worsens with inhalation or coughing, is also a warning sign. 

Treatment 

Treatment plans can vary and depend on the symptoms and the type of diagnosis. The methods used to diagnose the condition depend on your symptoms. During the initial evaluation, the physician performs a physical examination and makes a detailed record of your medical and family history. The physician may also need to order additional tests before making a diagnosis and working with you to define a treatment plan.