Pulmonology Pulmonology is a medical specialty focused on the respiratory system, specifically the lungs and related structures like the airways and breathing control. Pulmonologists diagnose and treat diseases and conditions affecting these areas, such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. What a Pulmonologist Does: Diagnosis: Pulmonologists use various methods, including pulmonary function tests (PFTs), imaging (like X-rays and CT scans), and bronchoscopies, to diagnose respiratory illnesses. Treatment: They develop and implement treatment plans, which may include medications, therapies like oxygen therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation, and in some cases, surgery or lung transplantation. Management: Pulmonologists manage both acute and chronic respiratory conditions, working with patients to improve their breathing and overall quality of life. Specializations: Some pulmonologists specialize in areas like sleep medicine (treating sleep apnea) or interventional pulmonology (performing procedures like bronchoscopies). Conditions Treated by Pulmonologists: Asthma: A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it hard to breathe, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs. Tuberculosis: A bacterial infection that can affect the lungs. Lung Cancer