Pulmonary medicine, a specialized branch of internal medicine, is dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of respiratory system disorders. This includes conditions affecting the lungs, upper airways, thoracic cavity, and chest wall.
In addition to diagnosing and managing respiratory disorders, pulmonary medicine encompasses the evaluation and treatment of various pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Pulmonologists, the medical professionals specializing in pulmonary medicine, utilize a variety of diagnostic techniques including pulmonary function tests, imaging studies such as chest X-rays and CT scans, bronchoscopy, and arterial blood gas analysis to accurately diagnose and develop tailored treatment plans for their patients. The goal of pulmonary medicine is to improve lung function, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the overall respiratory health and quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions.