pulmonologist
Pulmonologist (noun) means a doctor who specialises in the lungs and airways, treating conditions such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, lung cancer and sleep apnoea. Example: “Her GP referred her to a pulmonologist after the third chest infection.”
How to use pulmonologist
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA doctor who specialises in treating problems with the lungs and breathing.
American English. In the UK the same doctor is called a respiratory physician or respiratory consultant; in Canada, a respirologist.
The specialty itself is pulmonology; the British equivalent term is respiratory medicine.
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Her GP referred her to a _____ after the third chest infection.
Etymology
From Latin pulmo "lung" combined with the Greek-derived ending -ologist "one who studies".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for pulmonologist
Frequently asked questions
What does a pulmonologist do?
They diagnose and treat diseases of the lungs and breathing, including asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, tuberculosis, lung cancer and sleep-related breathing disorders. They interpret lung function tests and chest imaging, and often perform bronchoscopy.
What is the difference between a pulmonologist and a respiratory therapist?
A pulmonologist is a qualified doctor who diagnoses lung disease and prescribes treatment. A respiratory therapist is a trained clinician who delivers that treatment, managing ventilators, oxygen and breathing therapies, usually under a doctor's direction.
When should you see a pulmonologist?
Typically when breathlessness, a cough or wheezing has lasted for weeks, when asthma or COPD is not controlled by usual treatment, after an abnormal chest X-ray, or for suspected sleep apnoea. In most systems you need a referral from a GP or primary care doctor first.
What is the meaning of pulmonologist?
"pulmonologist" (noun) means a doctor who specialises in the lungs and airways, treating conditions such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, lung cancer and sleep apnoea.