Pulmonology is the study of the pulmonary system and its associated organs. It is a subspecialty of internal medicine that focuses on diseases of the respiratory system, specifically the lungs and the pulmonary circulation, bronchial tubes, upper respiratory tract (nose, pharynx, and throat) and heart.
Dr. Ramakrishna is specially trained in diseases of the respiratory system (chest), such as chronic asthma, chronic bronchitis, mesothelioma, pneumonia, tuberculosis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), emphysema, AIDS-related pulmonary complications, and complicated chest infections. A pulmonologist cares for patients with complex pulmonary problems that may not be managed by a general internist. They often function as critical care physicians.
During a pulmonary consultation, Dr. Ramakrishna will evaluate a patient’s respiratory and lung function by asking questions about hereditary diseases, exposure to toxins (asbestos, second-hand smoke) and exposure to infectious agents or a possible predisposition to autoimmune diseases. A pulmonologist may also inspect patients’ hands for cyanosis or clubbing, respiratory rates, chest wall movement and breathing sounds.
Dr. Ramakrishna also will provide evaluations before major surgeries, which are typically performed by thoracic surgeons, and perform specialized surgical procedures, such as lung biopsies, bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, intubation, and cricothyrotomy.
What is Bronchitis?
Bronchitis is a respiratory disease in which the lung’s mucous membranes, the airways, and the windpipes become inflamed. This results in coughing spells and sometimes accompanied by phlegm and breathlessness.
What Are the Symptoms of Bronchitis?
A persistent cough is the most common symptom of bronchitis. In many cases, the cough will dislodge mucus. Bronchitis also frequently causes pain in the chest area due to a deep cough. Some bronchitis sufferers may experience wheezing, a low-grade fever, and problems with breathing.
What Is the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Bronchitis?
Acute bronchitis is short-term, usually lasting anywhere from several days up to about 10 days. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition in which the airways and windpipe are continually inflamed.
Is Bronchitis Contagious?
It depends on the cause of bronchitis. If the bronchitis is caused by a virus or bacteria, it may be contagious. However, bronchitis that results from smoking or some other inhaled substance is not contagious.
How Is Bronchitis Treated?
Treatment for bronchitis depends on whether the condition is acute or chronic and the actual cause of bronchitis. The majority of acute bronchitis cases are viral in origin and will typically resolve on their own. Dr. Ramakrishna can prescribe medication for a painful cough and can recommend methods to shorten the duration of the illness. For example, rest and hydration are both key to recovery. For chronic bronchitis that exists along with a respiratory infection, antibiotics are often prescribed.
How Can Patients Prevent Bronchitis?
There are several ways that patients can minimize the chances of developing bronchitis. Patients should avoid smoking and should not allow someone to smoke indoors. To minimize irritants in the home, for example, dust mites and pet dander, vacuuming regularly and changing air filters frequently can be helpful. Eating utensils, bottles and cups should never be shared as this can result in the transfer of germs (and bronchitis along with them, in some cases).
