Which Department and Doctor Should You Visit for a Lung Examination?

About Lungs

The lungs are a crucial part of the vital function of breathing. They expand and contract thousands of times each day to take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Lung disease refers to problems that occur at any point in this system.

The respiratory system, as part of the lungs, is divided into two main sections: the upper and lower respiratory tracts. The upper respiratory tract consists of the mouth, nose, nasal cavity, throat, and larynx, while the lower respiratory tract includes the lungs, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli (air sacs).

Other components of the respiratory system that help the lungs expand and contract during breathing include the muscles surrounding the ribs and the diaphragm muscle. The lungs are also covered by a thin layer of tissue called the pleura, which lubricates the lungs and allows them to move smoothly.

When you breathe in, the air enters through the mouth or nose, passes through the throat to the trachea, and then into the bronchi and bronchiole tubes. Each alveolus is covered with capillaries, where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.

The lungs protect themselves by preventing the entry of germs and particles. They produce mucus to trap germs inhaled with the air and use small hairs to sweep them away. Alveoli produce a fluid called surfactant to keep them open and also contain immune cells called macrophages.

Lung Disease

Respiratory diseases can be caused by various factors, including bacteria, viruses, mold, polluted air, chemicals, indoor air pollution, cigarette smoke, and allergens.

Symptoms that may indicate lung disease include cough, mucus production, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, coughing up blood, snoring, and sleep apnea. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult the Pulmonology Department and be treated by pulmonology specialists.

Which Specialist Should You Consult for Lung Issues?

When lung health deteriorates, the quality of life can significantly decline. Shortness of breath, fatigue due to insufficient oxygen intake, weakness, and sleep disturbances can negatively impact overall life quality. This situation can also lead to other health problems. It is important to take lung and respiratory system issues seriously and consult a specialist instead of relying on over-the-counter solutions to prevent chronic conditions and treatment difficulties.

Which Department and Doctor Should You Visit for a Lung Examination?

If you have symptoms that suggest lung disease, you should consult a specialist to identify the source of the problem and take timely precautions. Pulmonologists, are the specialists who take care of lung and chest diseases.

Sometimes symptoms may not be limited to just lung diseases. For example, shortness of breath could be a sign of other health issues, and upper respiratory tract diseases can also cause mucus production. If shortness of breath is prominent, you may consult a "Cardiology" specialist; if you have complaints of mucus and cough, you may see an "Ear, Nose, and Throat" (ENT) specialist. These specialists will assess whether your symptoms are lung-related and, if necessary, refer you to a pulmonologist.

Sometimes, patients with breast-related issues mistakenly visit the Pulmonology Department. These patients should instead consult a general surgery specialist.