Pediatric Pulmonology

Pediatric pulmonology is a specialty concerned with making a diagnosis and

instituting treatment for respiratory disorders in children from birth up to adolescence.

Our well-qualified pediatric pulmonologists deliver comprehensive care to a wide

array of issues related to the lungs and breathing difficulties, securing the respiratory

health and overall well-being of children.

Overview of Pediatric Pulmonology

Pediatric pulmonologists are specially trained experts who care for the unique

respiratory needs of children. With their expansive knowledge of the growing lungs

and the developing respiratory system, they work out childcare with a difference. Our

team is well-trained to manage a variety of respiratory diseases ranging from simple

ones like colds to complex disorders like complex congenital lung disorders, and

chronic lung diseases.

They work in close cooperation with other specialists—including cardiologists—to

secure an integrated approach to a child's health. Coordination within this

interdisciplinary approach is very important for addressing the complicated

relationships among the respiratory and other systems of the body.

Our pediatric pulmonologists follow the most evidence-based guidelines and modern

methods of treatment to provide first-class care. We attempt to formulate a pretty

personalized course of treatment that answers each child's special needs, growth

stage, and general health to make breathing easier and improve quality of life to the

maximum.

Symptoms Treated by Pediatric Pulmonologists

Our expert doctors treat a wide range of respiratory symptoms and conditions,

including:

1. Breathing Difficulties

- Shortness of breath

- Wheezing

- Persistent coughing

- Rapid or labored breathing

2. Recurrent Respiratory Infections

- Chronic bronchitis- Pneumonia

- Sinusitis

3. Asthma and Allergies

- Chest tightness

- Coughing, especially at night or during exercise

• Seasonal allergies affecting breathing

4. Sleep-Related Breathing Disorders

• Sleep apnea

• Snoring

• Restless sleep

5. Chronic Lung Conditions

• Cystic fibrosis

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia

• Interstitial lung disease

Symptoms of Cardiopulmonary Interactions

Pediatric pulmonologists often work together with cardiologists to evaluate symptoms

that may be shared between the respiratory and cardiovascular systems:

Symptoms of Heart Conditions That Affect the Lungs:

• Shortness of breath, especially during exercise

• Cyanosis Bluish discoloration of the lips or skin

• Chest pain or discomfort

- Fatigue and weakness

Symptoms Resulting From Irregular Heartbeats:

- Palpitations

- Dizziness or lightheadedness

- Fainting, syncope

- Chest discomfort

Symptoms Resulting From Congenital Heart Defects:

- Poor weight gain in infants

- Delayed growth and development

- Frequent respiratory infections

- Excessive sweating, especially while feeding

Symptoms Resulting From Diseased Heart Muscle Cardiomyopathy:

- Shortness of breath, even at rest

- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet- Fatigue and weakness

- Irregular heartbeats

Symptoms Resulting From Problems With the Heart Valves:

- Heart murmurs

- Difficulty breathing, especially during exercise

- Chest pain or pressure

- Fatigue, faintness

What Tests and Diagnoses Does a Pediatric Pulmonologist Perform?

Pediatric pulmonologists conduct several specialized tests to evaluate your child's

respiratory health:

1. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)

These examinations determine how well the lungs are functioning and may include:

a. Spirometry based on the child’s age

b. Lung volume measurements

c. Diffusion capacity testing

2. Bronchoscopy

Can visualize airways with the aid of a small, flexible tube containing a camera.

3. Imaging Studies

Chest X-ray

CT scan

MRI

4. Sleep Studies

Assess breathing patterns and oxygen levels while sleeping.

5. Allergy Testing

Identifies which allergen may trigger respiratory symptoms.

6. Sweat Chloride Test

Diagnoses cystic fibrosis.

When to See a Pediatric Pulmonologist

A child should be seen by pediatric pulmonology team if they have the following

concerns:

•Persistent coughing or wheezing that does not improve with regular treatment

•Recurrent respiratory infections which can be a symptom of some underlying disease

•Shortness of breath with normal daily activities that could be a sign of decreased

lung function

•Unexplained fatigue or inability to exercise which could be indicative of respiratory

disease

•Snoring or other sleep problems that could be a symptom of sleep apnea or another

breathing disorder

Chest pain or tightness, which can be a symptom of various respiratory conditions

Failure to gain weight or grow well, usually related to chronic respiratory problems

Infants need early intervention for good control of their respiratory conditions. If your

child sees a pediatric pulmonologist early enough, they may benefit from proper

diagnosis, accommodated treatment plans, and better long-term outcomes for their

respiratory health and overall well-being.

5 FAQs

1. What is the difference between a pediatric pulmonologist and a general

pediatrician?

A pediatric pulmonologist has additional education and training in the disorders of

breathing and lungs in children. Now, although most of the common respiratory

issues can be easily managed by a general pediatrician, a pulmonologist is trained to

manage and treat complicated or chronic problems related to the lungs.

2. At what age will my child need to stop visiting the pediatric pulmonologist and go

to an adult pulmonologist?

The age for transition is normally between 18-21 years, although this depends on the

needs of each individual patient and the particular health system involved. Our team

facilitates the process of transition in collaboration with patients and their families.

3. Can asthma be cured?

Although asthma is an incurable disease, proper treatment, together with some

modifications in lifestyle, could sufficiently control the disease. Our pediatric

pulmonologists will work together with the family in formulating an appropriate course

of action for the child with asthma.

4. How should I prepare my child for the pulmonary function tests?

Simply explain the procedure, emphasizing that it does not hurt. Practice deep

breathing at home. Make sure your child is dressed in comfortable clothing and does

not have heavy meals prior to the test.

5. Are chronic coughs always a sign of asthma?

Not necessarily. There may be many causes for chronic coughing, such as allergies,

postnasal drip, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or other respiratory conditions. A

thorough evaluation by a pediatric pulmonologist will help define the root cause and

appropriate treatment.