Dr. Hareesh Pathak

A Pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the lungs and respiratory tract.

Pulmonologists commonly treat allergy & asthma, lung or airway inflammation, COVID-19, lung cancer, interstitial and occupational lung diseases, blocked lung airways, Tuberculosis chronic obstructive lung disease(COPD), genetic diseases of the lung, and the diseases that occur due to inhalation of dust chemical or smoking.

You need to visit a pulmonologist if you have symptoms such as a severe cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks, blood or mucus in cough, chest pain, breathing difficulties, wheezing, or sudden weight loss due to unknown reasons. Also consult pulmonologist if you are suspected or diagnosed with COVID 19.

A pulmonologist will perform different check-ups depending upon your problem. These may include tests that measure lung size and airflow such as spirometry and lung volume tests, CT scan, chest X-ray, chest ultrasound, pleural biopsy, pulse oximetry test, bronchoscopy, etc.

A pulmonologist will diagnose and treat conditions that affect the lungs and respiratory tract whereas a chest surgeon specializes in surgical procedures of the heart, lungs, esophagus, and other chest organs.

A pulmonologist may conduct pulmonary function tests to measure lung size and airflow. They also help to check how well you breathe and how effectively your lungs can bring oxygen to the rest of your body. He or she may also test for lung disorders by measuring the lungs' capacity to hold and move air and to absorb oxygen.

During your first visit to a pulmonologist, carry a summary of your medical history, list of medications, and past test results. After looking at your medical history, the pulmonologist will perform a physical examination. Tests such as Bronchoscopy, CT-scan, and Chest X-ray may be requested for an accurate diagnosis.

Yes, you can visit a pulmonologist to quit smoking as he or she will prescribe you some medication that will help you to quit. Nicotine patch, nicotine gum, and lozenges may be advised.

Yes, Pulmonologist evaluate it by sleep study.

Yes, Allergy testing like skin prick allergy test are done in a pulmonologist clinic.

• Infections like colds and flu
• Allergies – such as to pollen, dust mites, animal fur or feathers
• Smoke, fumes and pollution
• Medicines – particularly anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin
• Stress
• Weather – such as sudden changes in temperature, cold climate, heat and humidity
• Vigorous exercise

• Shortness of breath
• Wheeze (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• Cough
• Chest tightness or pain

• An asthma attack can last from several hours to days if not treated.
• Mild flare-ups may only last a few minutes, while severe attacks can last for days. Quick-relief medications are bronchodilators that work to expand the airways of the lungs (the bronchi), which improves your breathing.
• Get medical treatment immediately if shortness of breath does not improve or worsens.

Emotional stress can trigger asthma symptoms by causing changes in breathing patterns, increasing muscle tension around airways, and triggering the release of stress hormones that can worsen inflammation in the lungs.

While asthma can be life-threatening during severe attacks, deaths from asthma are preventable with proper management, medication adherence, and emergency action plans. Most people with asthma live normal, active lives when their condition is well-controlled.

Asthma can change over time - it may improve, worsen, or remain stable with age. Some children outgrow asthma, while others may develop it as adults. Proper management, avoiding triggers, and regular medical care help prevent worsening and maintain good control throughout life.

Asthma is typically a chronic, long-term condition, but it's highly manageable. Some children may outgrow asthma symptoms, while others have it throughout their lives. With proper treatment, most people with asthma can live normal, active lives without significant limitations.

Some people find acupuncture helpful as a complementary therapy for asthma symptoms, though scientific evidence is mixed. It should never replace standard asthma medications. Always consult your pulmonologist before trying alternative treatments to ensure they're safe and won't interfere with your current treatment plan.

Seek immediate emergency care if you experience severe breathing difficulty, inability to speak in full sentences, blue lips or fingernails, chest retractions, or if your rescue inhaler doesn't provide relief. Call emergency services immediately - don't wait or try to drive yourself to the hospital.

Currently, there is no cure for asthma, but it is highly manageable with proper treatment. The goal is to achieve complete control of symptoms through medications, trigger avoidance, and lifestyle modifications. Many people with well-controlled asthma live completely normal lives without daily symptoms.