Do You Need a Referral to See a Pulmonologist?

A pulmonologist is a medical professional with specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory disorders. If you have a lung-related health issue, your primary care provider may recommend consulting a pulmonologist.

These experts possess in-depth knowledge of the workings of the lungs, including the coordination of airways, blood vessels, and muscles essential for effortless breathing.

Functioning as physicians dedicated to both lung health and respiratory problems, pulmonologists identify and address various lung conditions. They are equipped to manage a broad spectrum of respiratory issues, ranging from short-term to chronic conditions necessitating lifelong treatment plans.

While common breathing problems can be handled by your family doctor, the expertise of a pulmonologist becomes crucial when faced with complex respiratory challenges or when the underlying cause is unclear.

Dr. Luis J. Mesa, MD helps patients in Hallandale Beach, FL with all manners of pulmonary and sleep medicine services.

The types of pulmonary diseases are highly variable as such pulmonary disease can present with a wide range of symptoms; however, the two most common signs and symptoms of pulmonary disease are shortness of breath and chronic coughs.

Almost everyone will experience shortness of breath or coughing fits from time to time but when they are regular occurrences, or they are severe, they may point to an underlying pulmonary disease.

The majority of instances of shortness of breath can be attributed to lung or heart conditions. Chronic shortness of breath is classified as such after it has been experienced for a period of four weeks or longer and can suggest a variety of pulmonary diseases including COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma, interstitial lung disease, and much more.

Even acute instances of shortness of breath that come on suddenly can point to something more serious and may be caused to see a pulmonologist. Chronic coughs may be symptoms of pulmonary diseases such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and more.

Pulmonologists use a variety of diagnostic practices to determine the exact nature of an individual’s lung disease. Your pulmonologist will review your family and medical history alongside a physical examination of the presenting signs and symptoms. Potential exposure to irritants, including cigarette smoke, will also be reviewed.

Otherwise, pulmonologists employ a range of diagnostic testing and exams to identify the cause of your symptoms. These include but are not limited to CT scans, ultrasound, bronchoscopy, sleep studies, and pulse oximetry tests. A pulmonary function test to determine how well a patient’s lungs are working is another important tool in the diagnosis of many lung diseases.

A pulmonary function test works by measuring the amount of air a patient is capable of inhaling and exhaling in order to discern whether or not the lungs are delivering an adequate quantity of oxygen to the blood. 

While many patients will see a pulmonologist following a referral by their general practitioner, referrals are not necessary. Patients in Hallandale Beach, FL can conveniently call the office of Dr. Luis J. Mesa, MD, or request an appointment online for diagnosis and treatment of their pulmonary conditions.

Your general practitioner may be able to manage straightforward and acute problems pertaining to pulmonary function however, more complex conditions often require the expertise of a pulmonologist. Many pulmonary diseases benefit immensely from early detection and prompt treatment interventions.

Because of this if you are exhibiting symptoms associated with pulmonary diseases including chronic coughing or shortness of breath, visiting a pulmonologist is often the best course of action. 

Dr. Luis J. Mesa, MD provides diagnoses and treats a wide range of pulmonary diseases. We serve patients from Hallandale Beach FL, Aventura FL, Hollywood FL, Golden Glades FL, Miramar FL, Hialeah FL, Fort Lauderdale FL, and BEYOND.