The study of lungs is pulmonology.
Pulmonology is a medical specialty dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the lungs and the broader respiratory system.
Pulmonology Explained
Pulmonology, pronounced (PUL-muh-NAH-loh-jee), focuses on a wide range of conditions impacting the respiratory system. This includes not only the lungs but also other related structures like the airways, pleura, and respiratory muscles.
What Pulmonologists Do
Pulmonologists are medical doctors specializing in the respiratory system. They:
- Diagnose lung conditions through physical exams, imaging tests (like X-rays and CT scans), and pulmonary function tests.
- Treat a variety of respiratory illnesses, including:
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Pneumonia
- Lung cancer
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sleep apnea
Why is Pulmonology Important?
Pulmonology plays a crucial role in maintaining respiratory health. Given the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases due to factors like air pollution and smoking, the field is more important than ever. Pulmonologists help patients manage chronic conditions, recover from acute illnesses, and improve their overall quality of life by addressing issues related to breathing and lung function.
