A pulmonologist or a pulmonary specialist is a medical practitioner who diagnoses and treats the disease that is related to the respiratory system. They treat everything from asthma to lung transplantation. To become a pulmonologist, one should complete an MBBS degree followed by a three-year postgraduate degree in Pulmonology.

What conditions does a pulmonologist treat?

Pulmonologists diagnose and treat problems related to the respiratory system. Here are a few common conditions treated by a pulmonologist.

Asthma

Asthma is a condition where a person's airways get swelled and produce extra mucus. This will make it hard for you to breathe, trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breathe.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of bronchial tubes that carries air to the lungs. This lead to the outflow of mucus while coughing, mild fever and cold, wheezing, shortness of breath.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

It is a group of lung diseases that blocks the air to the lungs making it difficult for you to breathe. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two common conditions of COPD. Treatment will help lungs from getting affected furthermore but this can't be cured.

When to approach a pulmonologist?

When you are affected by a severe cough or wheezing problem, then you must visit a general physician. After diagnosis, he/she will refer you to a pulmonologist if you are affected by any of the respiratory diseases mentioned above.

What are the procedures used to assess the condition of a patient?

CT Scan - to get a detailed image of your bones, muscles, blood vessels in your chest.

Pulmonary function test - A common test to check the efficiency of the lungs.

Bronchoscopy - To examine the airway and discover if there is any problem in the throat, airways, trachea.

Sleep Study - To examine if there are any sleep disorders.

Pulse oximetry test - to determine the oxygen saturation level in the blood.

What is the fee of a pulmonologist in Coimbatore?

The pulmonologists in Coimbatore charges from Rs. 300/- as a consultation fee. Based on the diagnosis, and upon your condition, it may vary.