Pulmonology is the specialisation that deals with the functioning and health of the respiratory tract, that includes the lungs, bronchial tubes, and diaphragm.
Conditions Treated: Pulmonology covers a wide range of respiratory issues, that include
Asthma: Asthma is an inflammation of the airways resulting in recurring symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Emphysema: Emphysema also called chronic, progressive obstructive lung disease (COPD) the result of destruction of alveoli (air sacs) which leads to severe shortness of breath, trapped air, and reduced oxygen transfer. This condition is primarily caused by smoking for a long duration or by pollutant exposure, it can cause permanent damage that cannot be reversed.
Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially fatal but curable, infectious disease caused by bacterial infection that typically attacks the lungs. The symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, night sweats, and weight loss.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung condition that obstructs airflow, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms include persistent mucus producing cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Cystic fibrosis:
CFTR gene, regulates salt and water movement in cells, a mutated CFTR gene, causes this disease which is inherited, life-threatening genetic disorder. This disorder causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs leading to severe breathing problems, chronic lung infections, and nutrient malabsorption.
Interstitial lung disease: It is a group of disorders causing progressive inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) in the lung tissue, specifically the interstitium, which restricts oxygen transfer. Symptoms include persistent dry cough, shortness of breath on exertion, fatigue, and clubbing of fingers.
Lung cancer: Lung cancer is a disease, which could be fatal and is caused by abnormal cell growth, primarily due to tobacco smoking in most cases and environmental factors.
They are classified in two types as the common non-small cell and small cell.
Symptoms. Symptoms, often appearing only in advanced stages, include persistent cough, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder which is common but serious, where breathing repeatedly stops and starts due to airway blockage. The muscles supporting soft tissues in the throat (tongue, soft palate) relax, allowing the airway to close during sleep.
Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping for air, and severe daytime fatigue. Treatment frequently involves CPAP machines or oral appliances, while managing weight and avoiding alcohol can help.
Risk factors include obesity, large tonsils, a small airway, high blood pressure, and being male.
Some Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
Loud snoring, breathing pauses, gasping, choking, and restlessness.
Morning headaches, dry mouth, or sore throat.
Excessive sleepiness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and depression.
They also manage severe respiratory illnesses in intensive care units, specializing in breathing issues and oxygenation.