Pulmonologist
Diagnoses and treats lung diseases through respiratory testing, imaging interpretation, bronchoscopy, and long-term management.
Career Overview
Growth Outlook: Very HighPulmonologists diagnose and treat diseases affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary infections, sleep disorders, and occupational lung conditions. They perform pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, and interpret advanced imaging such as CT scans. Many manage ventilatory support in intensive care settings and coordinate care for respiratory failure. The specialty requires strong physiological understanding, procedural skills, and rapid response capability. Rising air pollution, respiratory infections, and chronic lung disease worldwide ensure sustained global demand for respiratory medicine specialists.
Top Skills
- Pulmonary function testing
- Bronchoscopy
- Ventilator management
- Respiratory imaging interpretation
- Acute respiratory care
- Sleep disorder evaluation
- Critical decision-making
Education Pathway
- 12th Science
- MBBS
- MD Pulmonary Medicine / MD Internal Medicine
- DM Pulmonology
Suggested UG Degrees
- MBBS
PG / Advancement Options
- DM Pulmonology/Sleep Medicine
Also Known As
- Respiratory Physician
- Chest Specialist
- Lung Disease Specialist
- Pulmonary Medicine Consultant