When to Consult a Pulmonologist?
Consulting a pulmonologist is crucial when you experience ongoing or severe symptoms related to your breathing or lung health. These include:
Persistent Cough: If you have a chronic cough lasting more than 3-4 weeks, it could be an indicator of an underlying lung condition, such as asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Shortness of Breath: If you're frequently feeling short of breath or winded, especially even after minimal activity or at rest, it could be a sign of asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, or even heart-related issues, necessitating an evaluation by a pulmonologist.
Unexplained Chest Pain: While chest pain can often be related to heart issues, certain types of chest pain, especially sharp pain while breathing or coughing, can indicate lung problems such as pleurisy, pulmonary embolism, or pneumothorax.
Blood in Mucus or Phlegm: Coughing up blood (hemoptysis) can be a symptom of serious lung conditions such as lung cancer, and infections such as tuberculosis and bronchitis. In such cases, it's important to consult a pulmonologist for evaluation.
History of Smoking or Vaping: Smokers, former smokers, or people who vape regularly are at a higher risk for developing lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or lung cancer, and should consult a pulmonologist for an assessment.
Difficulty Breathing during Exercise or Activity: If physical activities that were once easy are now leaving you breathless, it could be due to undiagnosed respiratory conditions such as exercise-induced asthma or heart-lung issues.
Recurrent Pneumonia or Bronchitis: Frequent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or bronchitis, could be a sign of an underlying issue in the lungs or immune system, requiring further investigation by a pulmonologist.
Sleep-related Breathing Issues: Conditions such as sleep apnea, where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, can have significant effects on your lung health and overall well-being. A pulmonologist can help manage this condition.
Sudden Weight Loss with Respiratory Symptoms: If you're losing weight unexpectedly alongside breathing issues or a persistent cough, it could indicate a serious lung condition such as lung cancer.
Family History of Lung Disease: If you have a family history of lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, or other hereditary lung diseases, it’s advisable to consult a pulmonologist for screening and preventive care.
Occupational or Environmental Exposure: If you've been exposed to harmful substances such as asbestos, dust, or chemicals at work or in the environment, a pulmonologist can assess your risk for lung diseases such as silicosis or asbestosis.
Abnormal Chest X-rays or CT Scans: If routine imaging shows abnormalities in your lungs, such as nodules, fibrosis, or fluid accumulation, further evaluation by a pulmonologist is needed.
If you experience any of these symptoms or conditions, it's important to consult a pulmonologist for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management to maintain optimal lung health.
Conditions Treated by the Pulmonologists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon
The pulmonologists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of respiratory and lung-related conditions. Below is a comprehensive list of the common conditions treated by our team of pulmonologists:
Asthma: A chronic lung condition that causes airway inflammation, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Our team provides personalised asthma management, including medication and lifestyle guidance.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is a progressive lung disease, commonly caused by smoking, causing breathing difficulties. We offer advanced COPD management through medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes.
Lung Infections: Our team provides comprehensive treatment for various types of lung infections, including pneumonia, tuberculosis (TB), and bronchitis. The treatment may include antibiotics, antiviral and anti-inflammatory medications, and supportive care.
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): A group of disorders that cause scarring (fibrosis) of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties. Our pulmonologists provide diagnosis and treatment using medications, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Sleep Apnea and Other Sleep Disorders: Living with a sleep disorder can be mentally exhausting for patients, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We offer sleep studies, CPAP therapy, and personalised treatment plans for better sleep and quality of quality.
Pulmonary Hypertension: A condition characterised by high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, causing shortness of breath, dizziness, and/or fatigue. Our pulmonologists offer comprehensive treatments to help manage this condition.
Lung Cancer: Our pulmonologists work closely with oncologists to provide diagnosis, staging, and treatment for lung cancer, including advanced imaging, biopsies, and interventions such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Bronchiectasis: A chronic condition where the bronchial tubes become permanently widened, leading to mucus buildup and recurrent infections. Our pulmonologists treat the condition using airway clearance therapies, antibiotics, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. Our pulmonologists manage cystic fibrosis through medications, physical therapy, and advanced treatments to reduce infections and improve lung function.
Pulmonary Fibrosis: A condition where lung tissue becomes scarred, leading to stiffness and difficulty in breathing. We provide treatments to slow the progression and pulmonary rehabilitation and improve lung function.
Pleural Effusion: A condition characterised by the accumulation of excess fluid between the layers of the pleura (lining of the lungs), leading to breathing difficulties. Treatment includes draining the fluid and managing the underlying cause.
Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease where small clusters of immune cells (granulomas) form in the lungs and other organs. Our pulmonologists offer personalised treatments to manage symptoms and prevent further lung damage.
Pulmonary Embolism (PE): A life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs. We provide emergency care for PE, including anticoagulant therapy and thrombolytic (clot-dissolving) treatments.
Acute and Chronic Respiratory Failure: In respiratory failure, the lungs are unable to provide enough oxygen to the blood or remove carbon dioxide. We offer life-saving treatments for lung failure, including non-invasive and mechanical ventilation.
Chronic Cough and Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath): Our pulmonologists specialise in diagnosing and treating persistent coughs and unexplained shortness of breath caused by a wide range of conditions, including asthma, COPD, or heart-related problems.
Emphysema: This is a type of COPD where the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, leading to shortness of breath. Treatment includes bronchodilators, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy to manage symptoms.
Allergic Respiratory Conditions: Conditions such as allergic asthma or allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) are treated through allergy testing, immunotherapy, and medication to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): Occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. Treatment involves removing the air via needle aspiration or chest tube insertion to allow the lung to re-expand.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A severe, sudden lung condition caused by fluid buildup in the alveoli, leading to critically low oxygen levels. ARDS requires intensive care, including mechanical ventilation and supportive therapies.
Chronic Bronchitis: A long-term inflammation of the bronchi, which leads to coughing and mucus production. Treatment includes bronchodilators, steroids, and pulmonary rehabilitation to reduce symptoms and improve breathing.
Pulmonary Edema: A condition where excess fluid accumulates in the lungs, making breathing difficult. It is often caused by heart problems and requires urgent care to remove the fluid and treat the underlying condition.
Lung Nodules and Masses: Evaluation and management of lung nodules (small abnormal growths) or masses that may indicate lung cancer or other lung conditions, using diagnostic procedures such as biopsy and advanced imaging to determine the cause.
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD): A chronic lung disease that affects premature infants or newborns who require respiratory support. Treatment focuses on oxygen therapy, medications, and nutritional support to manage lung development.
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: A genetic condition that can lead to lung disease (like emphysema) or liver disease. Our pulmonologists provide specialised treatments, including augmentation therapy, to slow disease progression.
Lung Abscess: A pus-filled cavity in the lungs, typically caused by infection. Treatment includes antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical drainage.
COVID-19 and Post-COVID Complications: Our pulmonologists treat patients with COVID-19 infections and manage lingering respiratory complications such as post-COVID lung fibrosis and long COVID symptoms, offering comprehensive care for recovery.
Occupational Lung Diseases: Lung conditions caused by exposure to harmful substances in the workplace, such as asbestosis, silicosis, and coal worker's pneumoconiosis. Our team provides tailored treatment to manage these diseases.
Diagnostic Procedures Used by the Pulmonologists at Artemis Hospitals
The pulmonologists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, use various advanced diagnostic procedures to accurately assess and diagnose lung diseases. These procedures ensure precise diagnosis, leading to personalised treatment plans. Here is a list of the key diagnostic procedures used by our pulmonologists:
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): Measures lung capacity, airflow, and gas exchange to diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, and restrictive lung diseases.
Spirometry: Assesses the amount and speed of air you can inhale and exhale to evaluate lung function, commonly used for diagnosing asthma and COPD.
Chest X-ray: Provides an image of the lungs, heart, and chest wall, helping detect infections, tumours, and chronic lung diseases.
CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Produces detailed images of the lungs and is used to diagnose lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, and interstitial lung diseases.
Bronchoscopy: A procedure to view the airways and take tissue samples, useful for diagnosing infections, tumours, and chronic cough.
Lung Biopsy: Involves removing a small tissue sample from the lung for analysis, commonly used to diagnose cancer, fibrosis, and other lung conditions.
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Test: Measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood to assess lung function, especially in conditions like COPD or respiratory failure.
Sputum Analysis: Examines mucus from the lungs to detect infections such as tuberculosis or pneumonia, and assess for lung cancer.
Sleep Study (Polysomnography): A comprehensive test that diagnoses sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea by monitoring breathing patterns during sleep.
Pleural Fluid Analysis (Thoracentesis): A procedure to remove and analyse fluid from the pleural space to diagnose the cause of pleural effusion, such as infection or cancer.
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET): Measures how well the lungs, heart, and muscles function during exercise to assess exercise capacity and diagnose conditions causing shortness of breath.
Allergy Testing: Used to identify allergens that may trigger asthma or other respiratory conditions through skin prick tests or blood tests.
Lung Ventilation-Perfusion (V/Q) Scan: Evaluates airflow and blood flow in the lungs to diagnose pulmonary embolism.
Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Test: Measures the levels of nitric oxide in the breath to assess airway inflammation, especially for asthma.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Echocardiogram: Assess heart function to determine if heart-related issues are contributing to lung diseases like pulmonary hypertension.
Genetic Testing: Identifies genetic causes of lung diseases, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and cystic fibrosis.
Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT): Measures oxygen levels and heart rate while walking to assess lung function, especially for COPD and pulmonary hypertension.
Methacholine Challenge Test: Used to diagnose asthma by assessing airway sensitivity to methacholine, which can cause constriction in asthma patients.
Thoracoscopy: A minimally-invasive procedure to examine and biopsy the pleura (lining of the lungs) to diagnose pleural diseases.
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan: A detailed imaging test often used to detect and stage lung cancer by identifying active cancer cells in the body.
Exhaled Breath Condensate (EBC) Analysis: A non-invasive test that evaluates biomarkers in the breath to assess lung inflammation in conditions like asthma and COPD.
Treatments for Lung Diseases available at Artemis Hospitals
The pulmonologists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, offer a variety of advanced treatment options for patients with lung diseases. These include:
Medications
Bronchodilators: Used to relax the muscles around the airways, making breathing easier for conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis.
Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory medications administered either orally, through inhalers, or intravenously to reduce inflammation.
Antibiotics/Antivirals: For treating bacterial and viral lung infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis.
Mucolytics: Medications to thin mucus in the lungs, improving mucus clearance in conditions like bronchiectasis and chronic bronchitis.
Inhalation Therapy
Nebulization: Administers medications in the form of a mist that is inhaled into the lungs, used to treat asthma, COPD, and other obstructive lung diseases.
Inhalers (MDI/DPI): Devices that deliver medication directly into the lungs to relieve symptoms of asthma, COPD, and bronchitis.
Oxygen Therapy
For patients with chronic lung conditions such as COPD, interstitial lung disease, or pulmonary fibrosis who have low blood oxygen levels. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygen saturation and reduces breathlessness.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
A comprehensive program designed for patients with chronic lung diseases like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or interstitial lung disease. It includes exercise training, nutritional advice, education, and counselling to help improve lung function, stamina, and overall well-being.
BiPAP/CPAP Therapy
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A non-invasive ventilation therapy used for treating obstructive sleep apnea, helping to keep the airways open during sleep.
Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): A non-invasive therapy that delivers different air pressure levels for inhalation and exhalation, used in conditions like COPD, respiratory failure, and sleep apnea.
Mechanical Ventilation
For patients with severe respiratory failure who are unable to breathe independently, mechanical ventilation is provided in the ICU to support breathing while the lungs recover.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
A life-saving procedure used for patients with severe lung failure, where a machine oxygenates the blood outside the body, allowing the lungs to rest and heal.
Bronchoscopy
A therapeutic procedure used to remove mucus plugs, clear airway obstructions, or treat lung infections. It can also be used for airway stenting in cases of airway collapse or narrowing.
Thoracentesis
A procedure to drain excess fluid from the pleural space, relieving symptoms like breathlessness caused by pleural effusion. It’s commonly performed for conditions such as heart failure, lung infections, and cancer.
Pleurodesis
A treatment for recurrent pleural effusions or pneumothorax (collapsed lung). A chemical agent is introduced into the pleural space to create scar tissue and prevent the re-accumulation of fluid or air in the lungs.
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS)
A surgical procedure performed for patients with severe emphysema or COPD. It involves removing diseased portions of the lung to improve lung function and ease breathing.
Airway Stenting
A procedure used to open and stabilise narrowed or collapsed airways caused by tumours, infections, or scar tissue. Stents are placed to maintain airway patency.
Balloon Bronchoplasty
A minimally-invasive procedure that dilates (widens) narrowed airways using a balloon catheter, often used in cases of airway stenosis (narrowing) due to inflammation or tumours.
Tracheostomy
A surgical procedure where an opening is created in the trachea (windpipe) to establish an airway for patients who have difficulty breathing on their own or need long-term ventilation.
Chemotherapy, Radiation, and Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy: Involves the use of powerful drugs that target and destroy cancer cells. These drugs can be administered either intravenously (through a vein) or orally (in pill form).
Radiation Therapy: Targets and destroys cancer cells in the lungs using high-energy rays. It is often used in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy: Helps the body's immune system fight cancer by stimulating or boosting its natural defences to target and destroy cancer cells.
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
A minimally-invasive surgical procedure used for the treatment of lung diseases, including lung cancer, pleural diseases, and lung infections. VATS is used to remove tumours, perform lung biopsies, or treat pleural conditions.
Allergen Immunotherapy
A treatment for patients with allergic asthma or other respiratory conditions caused by allergens. It reduces sensitivity to specific allergens through controlled exposure over time, leading to fewer and less severe symptoms.
Lung Transplant
For patients with end-stage lung disease, a lung transplant may be considered. This procedure involves replacing a diseased lung with a healthy lung from a donor, offering a life-saving option for those with severe lung conditions like pulmonary fibrosis or cystic fibrosis.
Sputum Clearance Therapy
Techniques such as chest physiotherapy or the use of devices that help patients with chronic lung diseases (such as bronchiectasis) to clear mucus and secretions from the lungs, improving breathing and reducing the risk of infections.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide Therapy
Used to treat pulmonary hypertension and other severe respiratory conditions. Inhaled nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels in the lungs and improve oxygenation.
Antifibrotic Therapy
For patients with pulmonary fibrosis, medications like nintedanib and pirfenidone are used to slow the progression of scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs, improving breathing and quality of life.
These treatments at Artemis Hospitals offer a comprehensive approach to managing lung diseases, from non-invasive therapies to surgical interventions, providing patients with the highest standard of care.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon?
Born out of a vision to offer world-class healthcare services, Artemis Hospitals is a name you can trust for all your healthcare requirements, including treatment for lung disorders. Here are a few attributes that make us worthy of your trust:
Eminent Specialists: Our team includes some of the best pulmonologists, chest surgeons, sleep medicine specialists, and paediatric and geriatric pulmonologists, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise.
Multidisciplinary Approach: We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our pulmonologists work closely with specialists from other departments, ensuring every patient receives a comprehensive, personalised treatment plan.
State-of-the-Art Technology: From our advanced pulmonary function lab to video-assisted bronchoscopy and HIS-PACS-enabled systems, we use cutting-edge technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
24/7 Critical Care: Our Department of Pulmonology is integrated with the Department of Critical Medicine, enabling our specialists to handle even the most complex cases and provide round-the-clock critical care.
Continued Support: Beyond medical treatment, we provide ongoing rehabilitative and palliative care, ensuring that patients feel supported throughout their healing journey, both physically and emotionally.
Book an Appointment with a Pulmonologist at Artemis, Gurgaon
Booking an appointment with a pulmonologist in Gurgaon at the Artemis Hospital is as simple as it could get. You can call our centralised number: +91-124-4511111, WhatsApp us at: +91-95992-85476, or register on our Online Patient Portal. Alternatively, you can also download and register on our Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lung Disorders
Can pulmonary disease be cured?
It is hard to provide a blanket statement on pulmonary diseases. Unfortunately, there is no cure for most pulmonary diseases. However, long-term and effective treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. Consult a pulmonologist, or lung specialist, in Gurgaon at the Artemis Hospital for effective treatment.
Can pulmonologists treat asthma?
Yes, pulmonologists are specialist doctors who treat asthma. Based on the patient’s health condition, they advise medications and help prepare an asthma action plan. Consult some of the best pulmonologists in Gurgaon at Artemis Hospital for comprehensive asthma care.
What is a paediatric pulmonologist?
A paediatric pulmonologist is a doctor specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory illness in children.
Does a pulmonologist handle paediatric respiratory conditions?
Yes, pulmonologists can handle paediatric respiratory conditions, but they are not specialists in paediatric care. Paediatric pulmonologists have specialised training and experience in handling respiratory diseases in children.
What is the difference between a Pulmonologist and a chest surgeon?
Both pulmonologists and chest surgeons deal with respiratory conditions affecting the lungs. Pulmonologists are doctors or physicians who manage diseases of the entire respiratory system, not just the lungs, through medications and non-surgical procedures. Chest surgeons, on the other hand, are doctors with specialised training and certification in surgery of the chest, whether it pertains to lungs or heart.
Can a Pulmonologist perform surgeries?
No, most pulmonologists cannot perform surgeries. They are physicians who utilise medications and other treatments for managing diseases of the respiratory system. Pulmonologists refer patients to surgeons specialising in heart, lungs, or chest for surgical procedures. However, pulmonologists can perform biopsies and lung function tests for diagnosing respiratory diseases.
Can I go to a pulmonologist to quit smoking?
Yes, if you have decided to quit smoking and are looking for expert guidance, you can visit reputable pulmonologists and lung doctors at the Artemis Hospital. They can prescribe medications, such as nicotine patches, to help you get a jumpstart. They can also help you with a personalised smoking cessation programme to quit smoking once and for all.
How Do I Keep My Lungs Healthy?
The best pulmonologists advise patients to follow these habits to keep their lungs healthy: Exercise regularly, practise deep breathing exercises, stop smoking, stay up-to-date on your vaccinations, minimise exposure to outdoor and indoor pollutants, maintain good hygiene, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet.