Knowing the warning signs of potential respiratory health issues and chronic conditions that may require regular doctor visits is an important part of maintaining good lung health.

5 Signs it’s time to see a pulmonologist:

1. A persistent cough

A cough that doesn’t go away can be a symptom of a wide range of respiratory issues and can interrupt your daily routine and activities. Persistent cough can be a sign of a viral, bacterial, or even fungal infection, and may require a visit with a pulmonologist to diagnose and treat.

2. Shortness of breath with mild activity

Struggling to breathe or finding yourself out of breath when performing routine activities may be a sign of a respiratory issue or chronic illness. Bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, and several other serious respiratory issues can include shortness of breath as a symptom.

3. Smoking

Emphysema, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer can all result from smoking. 90 percent of lung cancer cases are attributed to smoking cigarettes. If you smoke, regular visits with a pulmonologist are a great way to monitor your lung health.

4. Asthma

If you have asthma, a chronic condition that constricts your airways and makes it difficult to breathe, maintaining regular contact and visits with a pulmonologist can help you keep your asthma under control. No matter the severity of your asthma, an experienced pulmonologist can help you manage the condition and provide you with helpful information and resources to keep your asthma in check.

5. Breathing problems accompanied by foot/leg swelling

If you suffer from shortness of breath or breathing issues that are accompanied by swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, it may be a sign of a serious respiratory issue. These symptoms can indicate pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the arteries in the lungs) or pulmonary edema (a build-up of fluid in the lungs), and you should contact a pulmonologist as soon as these symptoms occur.

Columbus Community Hospital is dedicated to delivering the highest quality care right here in Columbus. Our expert pulmonologist, Dr. Carl Dahlberg, is here to diagnose and treat a variety of respiratory illnesses and to help patients manage chronic conditions and develop healthy lung habits.

Call (979) 732-2318 to schedule an appointment and learn more about our pulmonology services here.