Have you ever found yourself struggling to catch your breath, coughing for weeks without relief, or wheezing during your morning walk? These could be signs that your lungs need attention — and if you’ve ever wondered who are pulmonologists, they are the specialists who step in to diagnose and treat such respiratory issues.

What is a Pulmonologist?

A pulmonologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the respiratory system — the lungs, airways, and the muscles that help you breathe. From diagnosing chronic cough to managing life-threatening lung diseases, pulmonologists are experts in keeping your breathing effortless and healthy.

They deal with conditions involving:

• The lungs (e.g., pneumonia, COPD, asthma)
• The bronchi and bronchioles (airways)
• The chest wall and diaphragm (breathing muscles)

What Does a Pulmonologist Do?

Pulmonologists are trained to:

• Diagnose respiratory disorders using chest X-rays, CT scans, lung function tests, and bronchoscopies.
• Treat both acute and chronic lung conditions.
• Manage long-term care for diseases like asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, and pulmonary fibrosis.
• Collaborate with other specialists like cardiologists, allergists, or thoracic surgeons when conditions are complex.

Common Conditions Treated by Pulmonologists

Here are some of the most common respiratory issues they handle:

• Asthma
  Chronic inflammation of airways leading to wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  A progressive disease, often linked to smoking, that causes airflow limitation.
• Lung Infections
  Including pneumonia, tuberculosis, and bronchitis.
• Sleep Apnea
  A disorder where breathing stops and starts during sleep — often treated by pulmonologists trained in sleep medicine.
• Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
  A group of disorders that cause lung scarring and stiffness.
• Lung Cancer
  Pulmonologists often play a role in diagnosing and managing this serious condition.

When Should You See a Pulmonologist?

If you’re experiencing:

• Chronic cough lasting more than 3–4 weeks
• Shortness of breath, even at rest
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Chest tightness or wheezing
• Persistent fatigue related to breathing issues

…it’s time to consult a pulmonologist.

How Are They Different from General Physicians?

While general physicians can treat mild respiratory issues, pulmonologists are trained for complex cases that require advanced diagnosis, procedures, and long-term management. Think of them as lung specialist — getting to the root of breathing problems when they’re not easy to explain.