When should I consult a Pulmonologist?
You should consult a pulmonologist if you have:
- Cough lasting more than 3 weeks
- Breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Snoring with daytime sleepiness
- Coughing up blood
- Abnormal chest X-ray or CT scan findings
Is a chronic cough always due to a lung problem?
No. Chronic cough may be caused by:
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Sinusitis and post-nasal drip
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Smoking
- Certain medications
- Lung infections
A proper evaluation is required to identify the cause.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that causes:
- Wheezing
- Breathlessness
- Chest tightness
- Cough, especially at night or early morning
With proper treatment, most patients can lead a normal and active life.
Can Asthma be cured completely?
Asthma cannot usually be cured, but it can be effectively controlled with:
- Regular medications
- Avoidance of triggers
- Correct inhaler technique
Periodic follow-up
Are inhalers safe?
Yes. Inhalers are safe and are often the preferred treatment for asthma and COPD because the medication directly reaches the lungs with minimal side effects.
Will I become dependent on inhalers?
No. Inhalers do not cause addiction or dependency. They help control airway inflammation and improve breathing.
What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease commonly caused by:
- Smoking
- Biomass fuel exposure
- Occupational dust exposure
Symptoms include chronic cough, sputum production, and breathlessness.
Can non-smokers develop COPD?
Yes. COPD can occur due to:
- Indoor air pollution
- Firewood smoke exposure
- Occupational dust and chemicals
- Previous lung infections
- Genetic factors
What is Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT)?
PFT is a non-invasive test that measures lung function and helps diagnose:
- Asthma
- COPD
- Restrictive lung diseases
- Occupational lung diseases
The test usually takes 15–30 minutes.
Why do I feel breathless even when my chest X-ray is normal?
Breathlessness can occur due to:
- Asthma
- Early COPD
- Heart disease
- Anemia
- Obesity
- Anxiety
- Deconditioning
Additional tests may be needed.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Common symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Poor concentration
- Witnessed pauses in breathing
Is snoring normal?
Not always. Frequent loud snoring may indicate obstructive sleep apnea and should be evaluated.
What is a Sleep Study?
A sleep study is an overnight test that monitors:
- Breathing
- Oxygen levels
- Heart rate
- Brain activity
- Sleep stages
It helps diagnose sleep-related disorders.
Who needs a Sleep Study?
People with:
- Loud snoring
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Obesity
- Resistant hypertension
- Witnessed breathing pauses during sleep
- Unexplained fatigue
may benefit from a sleep study.
Does cold weather cause asthma?
Cold air itself does not cause asthma but may trigger symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Should I get vaccinated for lung health?
Adults, especially those with lung diseases, may benefit from:
- Influenza vaccination
- Pneumococcal vaccination
- Other recommended vaccines as advised by your doctor
Is steam inhalation useful for respiratory infections?
Steam inhalation may provide temporary relief from nasal congestion but does not cure respiratory infections. Excessively hot steam may cause burns.
Do milk and dairy products increase mucus production?
For most people, milk does not increase mucus production. Some individuals may feel a temporary coating sensation in the throat after consuming dairy products.
Can air conditioning worsen respiratory symptoms?
Poorly maintained air conditioners may accumulate dust, mold, and allergens that can trigger respiratory symptoms. Regular cleaning and servicing are recommended.
How often should I have a lung health check-up?
Individuals with asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, chronic cough, smoking history, or recurrent respiratory symptoms should undergo periodic evaluation as advised by their pulmonologist.
Still Have Questions?
Our team at Arokyam Lungs Care Centre is here to help.