Aster Hospital is one of the best pulmonology hospital, which is dedicated to providing comprehensive medical care. We offer evidence-based, multidisciplinary treatment for conditions such as asthma, COPD, cancers of the airways and lungs, lung infections, sleep apnea, ARDS and respiratory failure. The department of pulmonology consists of a lung specialist, pulmonologists, critical care experts, thoracic surgeons, radiologists. They are well supported by speciality nurses and respiratory therapists. The team has years of experience in performing special procedures related to interventional pulmonology (for ailments of the central airways), interventional bronchoscopy (for diagnosis of airway disorders) and transbronchial needle aspiration (for mediastinal disorders). Our diagnostic unit at the department of pulmonology offers a variety of advanced tests, such as sleep study, diagnostic pleural fluid aspiration, pleural biopsy, medical thoracoscopy. It’s fully equipped with modern respiratory diagnostics and treatment instruments, such as a paediatric flexible bronchoscope, rigid thoracoscopy, and bronchoscopy, portable adult bronchoscope; snare, cautery, and laser for endobronchial resection.
Our Doctors
We have some of the best specialists from around the world, they bring years of experience and offer evidence-based treatment to ensure the best care for you.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
Pulmonary function tests are a group of tests that measure how well the lungs take in and release air and how well they move gases such as oxygen from the atmosphere into the body’s circulation.
Bronchoscopy
Thoracoscopy
Chest ultrasound
Chest x-rays
Lung scan
Lung biopsy
Pulmonary angiogram
Pulmonary function tests (PFT)
Spirometry
Pleural fluid aspiration
Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA)
Transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB)
Pulse oximetry
Peak flow measurement
Sleep study
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in treating severe refractory respiratory failure due to various lung diseases especially severe pneumonia.
- Pulmonary function tests
- Diffusion capacity of lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO)
- Six minute walk test (6MWT)
- Fractional exhaled nitric oxide testing (FENO)
- Skin prick test (Allergy testing)
Outpatient Consultation
Dedicated Clinics for: Asthma, COPD, Obstructive sleep apnoea, Obesity hypoventilation syndrome, Chronic respiratory or ventilatory failure (including home oxygen therapy and non-invasive ventilation), Suppurative lung diseases, Tuberculosis, Interstitial lungdiseases, Pulmonary hypertension (including pulmonary vascular diseases), Respiratory allergic disorders
Fast-track clinics for suspected thoracic malignancies.
Smoking cessation clinics
Executive health check ups
Management of all acute respiratory admissions
Providing joint care with intensivists for respiratory patients intubated and managed in the intensive care unit.
Non-invasive ventilation and CPAP therapy
Management of patients with haemoptysis in collaboration with Interventional Radiologist if Bronchial Artery Embolization is planned or Thoracic Surgeon if operative intervention is required
Attending to inter-departmental referrals
Assessment of fitness for surgery
Routine spirometry
Full lung function tests
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (TBC)
Limited sleep studies
Polysomnography
6 minute walk test
Flight assessment to assess fitness for flying (TBC)
Thoracic Ultrasound and Thoracocentesis
Lung and Pleural biopsy
Bronchoscopy
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
Does lung cancer spread quickly?
Depends upon the type of tumor and most of them will present at an advanced stage. To detect early cancer screening essentially, especially for high-risk persons (smokers/ exposure of occupational hazards/family history of cancer).
How does lung cancer feel?
There are no specific symptoms and signs suggestive of lung cancer it may be asymptomatic (no symptoms) to severely decreased lung functions or symptoms (breathlessness/hemoptysis/chest pain/weight loss).
When should I see a pulmonary specialist?
Chronic cough for more than 2 weeks or frequent episodes of cough for months/years.
Allergy not under control i.e. frequent requirement of syrup or oral medications and little change in the environment causing trouble.
Presence of Blood in the sputum (phlegm).
Unexplained weight loss associated with cough.
Overweight/obese with excessive daytime sleepiness/irritations.
Localized Chest pain increasing with deep breathing.
Difficulty in breathing (Breathlessness) on exertion or on routine activities.
Unexplained fever (fever of unknown origin).
History of smoking.
To rule out occupational lung disease.
A child having respiratory problems, not responding to routine symptomatic treatment.
Screening at-risk individuals (employee working in industries).
Contact history with tuberculosis patient in the household (contact) to rule outspread of the disease.
What are the factors that cause Asthma?
The factors that cause Asthma are Genetic, environmental factors and triggers like smoke, pollen, air pollution, respiratory infections and dust etc. Intrinsic factors like emotional outburst and anxiety
How common is Asthma?
In India alone, the 17-18 million population is suffering from Asthma. Across the globe, around 300 million people are suffering from Asthma.
How is Asthma diagnosed?
Generally, the doctor will conduct a detailed medical history and physical examination of the patient to determine the symptoms. Inhaler medications will be recommended to improve lungs condition.
Lung function test or spirometry, Blood test, is done for diagnosis of Bronchial Asthma and its allergy components.
Can people with Asthma do exercise?
Yes. Exercise is a very important part of health for a patient with Bronchial Asthma. Losing weight can be beneficial.
Visit the Top Pulmonology Hospital in Bangalore to avail highest quality medical care.
I have Asthma. Do I need to use tablets or inhalers?
Depending on severity and level of control of Asthma, various medications will be prescribed including tablets, inhalers and nebulizations.
Are inhalers addictive?
No. Inhalers are safe to use in children and adults with Asthma. They control Asthma and prevent serious Asthma attacks so that they can lead a normal healthy life.
What is the most common pulmonology disease seen in Children?
Bronchitis is the most common lung disease seen in children. It is a viral infection, in which the large breathing tubes that open into the lungs get swollen and red. This causes breathing issues and irritation in these tubes called bronchial tubes because of too much mucus created by the linings.
What services does the pulmonology department of Aster Women and Children Hospital provide?
- Aster Women and Children Hospital’s dedicated Centre for Pediatric Pulmonology is one of the best pulmonology departments which combines expertise with the latest technological developments to offer the best clinical and interventional services in pediatric pulmonology and sleep medicine.
- The department is specialized with special emphasis on Asthma, respiratory clinic, and allergy testing in the pediatric population.
- Our pediatric pulmonologists excel in interventional pulmonology treating complex advanced lung diseases, congenital lung malformations, Pediatric airway stenting, Foreign body removal, and pediatric and neonatal bronchoscopic procedures.
- At our center, we follow international treatment protocols to ensure optimal evidence-based care at all times and offer best-in-class healthcare services for pediatric care.
What are the signs that my child is suffering from pulmonary disease?
- Difficulty in breathing
- Shortness of breath
- A cough that is persisting for long
- Mucus or blood in cough
- Pain and discomfort while breathing
What common clinical tests would the doctor suggest if my child is suffering from pulmonary disease?
The doctor might suggest following tests for your child depending upon the symptoms
- Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy
- X-ray
- Pulmonary function testing
- Sweat chloride test
- Bronchoalveolar lavage
- Laryngoscopy
- Skin prick test
Is asthma in children allergic?
Asthma is not allergic but children having allergies or having a family history of allergies are more susceptible to asthma. If a child having asthma also have allergies it can worsen the symptoms of asthma
What is a lung transplantation?
Lung transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a diseased or damaged lung with a healthy lung from a deceased donor or, in some cases, from a living donor. It is typically performed in patients with end-stage lung diseases that cannot be adequately treated with other medical interventions.
How long is the waiting period for a lung transplant?
The waiting period for a lung transplant can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the patient's blood type, the severity of their condition, and the availability of suitable donor organs. On average, the waiting period can range from a few weeks to several months.
How long can a transplanted lung last?
The longevity of a transplanted lung can vary among individuals. On average, most lung transplant recipients can expect their transplanted lung to function well for approximately 5 to 10 years. However, with advancements in surgical techniques, post-transplant care, and immunosuppressive medications, there have been cases where transplanted lungs have functioned for more than 15 years.
Who is a Pulmonologist and what do they do?
A pulmonologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the respiratory system. They deal with illnesses of the lungs, airways, and sometimes the cardiovascular system as it relates to respiratory function. Pulmonologists are involved in both clinical work and in some cases, research, to find treatments and cures for lung diseases.
What conditions do Pulmonologists attend to?
Pulmonologists attend to a wide range of conditions affecting the respiratory system, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, lung cancer, interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary hypertension, sleep apnea, tuberculosis, and complex lung infections.
When should I consider seeing a Pulmonologist?
You should consider seeing a pulmonologist if you experience persistent cough, difficulty breathing, recurrent chest infections, unexplained wheezing, shortness of breath during daily activities or rest, or if you're diagnosed with a chronic respiratory condition such as asthma, COPD, or pulmonary fibrosis.
What question should you ask a Pulmonologist?
Questions to ask a pulmonologist might include:
- Can you explain my diagnosis?
- What are the available treatment options and their side effects?
- How will my condition affect my daily life?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to improve my condition?
- How often will I need follow-ups?
What advancements or technologies are utilized by Pulmonologists?
Pulmonologists utilize various advanced technologies and methods, including bronchoscopy (visual examination of airways), thoracentesis (removing fluid from the space around the lungs), and advanced imaging techniques (CT scans, MRIs). They also use pulmonary function tests to assess lung function and utilize cutting-edge treatments, including targeted therapies for lung cancer and biologic drugs for asthma.
How do I know if I have damaged my lungs?
Lung damage can be assessed Screening by PFT/spirometry (lung function) and HRCT CHEST.
What are the early signs of lung disease?
Unproportionate breathlessness i.e. difficulty breathing even for routine daily activities.
Cough not responding to homemade therapies/ OTC drugs.
Hoarseness of voice.
Early Morning bringing out more quantity of expectoration/phlegm/sputum.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common respiratory disorder in which your airways become inflamed. It occurs in children and adults.
What does Asthma feel like?
You will experience coughing, tightening in chest, whistling sound in the chest etc when exposed to dust. Consult the Best Pulmonologist in Bangalore to know more about Asthma signs and symptoms.
How does someone develop asthma?
One may develop Asthma due to genetics, environmental factors, respiratory infections, air pollutants etc.
What is the relation between Allergies and Asthma?
Yes, 60-70% of patients present with sneezing, itching, nasal stuffiness etc are associated with allergies and asthma.
What are symptoms of asthma?
Asthma can present with episodic cough, wheeze, and chest tightness. It can be associated with nasal allergy symptoms such as running nose, sneezing episodes.
Can Asthma be life threatening?
Yes. Especially if asthma is not well controlled, it can be life threatening. Patients with certain types of asthma may develop severe symptoms in a short duration of time. We need to be extra cautious with such patients.
How to prevent serious asthma attacks?
Use your inhalers regularly as per your prescription Avoid triggering factors like exposure to dust, pollen etc. Discuss with your pulmonologist about Asthma action plan Don`t miss your annual FLU vaccination Do regular exercise, yoga and meditation Take seasonal fruits, avoid junk food
Who is a pediatric pulmonologist?
A pediatric pulmonologist is an experienced and qualified doctor who has expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing from newborn to 18 years old for breathing and lung diseases.
If I visit the pediatric pulmonology center at Aster, I can get treatment for which pulmonology diseases for my child.
- Our team manages, acute and long-term respiratory conditions through our evidence-based and latest treatments.
- Our pulmonologists specialize in Bronchiectasis, Cystic fibrosis, Primary ciliary dyskinesias, Immunodeficiencies
- We conduct dedicated bimonthly state-of-the-art multidisciplinary clinics gathering all specialties under one roof and providing support groups
What are the common pulmonary/ lung diseases in children?
- Chronic cough
- Wheezing
- Pneumonia
- Exercise limitation
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Lung diseases in infants include chronic lung diseases like bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Can respiratory diseases be allergic?
Yes, respiratory diseases can be allergic and affect breathing in children. If, the child is creating a wheezing sound while breathing or if there is rapid breathing or shortness of breath it might be a sign of allergic respiratory infection. A dry cough with clear mucus also indicates that it can be an allergy.
Can my newborn baby be suffering from pulmonary disease?
A newborn baby may have Newborn respiratory distress syndrome if the lungs are not fully developed and are not providing enough oxygen, which may cause breathing difficulty. This condition has been usually observed in newborn babies.
Who is a candidate for a lung transplantation?
Candidates for lung transplantation are individuals with severe, irreversible lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), cystic fibrosis (CF), or pulmonary hypertension. Eligibility for lung transplantation depends on several factors, including the severity of the disease, overall health status, and the absence of contraindications.
What are the risks and complications associated with lung transplantation?
Lung transplantation is a complex surgical procedure with potential risks and complications. Some of the risks include organ rejection, infection, bleeding, blood clots, and complications related to immunosuppressive medications.
Are there any lifestyle changes required after lung transplantation?
Yes, lifestyle changes are necessary after lung transplantation to optimise the long-term success of the transplant. These changes may include adhering to a strict medication regimen, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco smoke and environmental pollutants, and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of infections. It's crucial for recipients to follow the guidelines provided by their transplant team for a healthy and successful outcome.
What is the role of a Pulmonologist in a patient's treatment?
A pulmonologist’s role includes diagnosing respiratory conditions, developing and managing a treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs, providing follow-up care, and coordinating with other specialists as necessary. They also guide patients in managing their condition to improve quality of life.
How does a Pulmonologist decide on a treatment plan?
A pulmonologist decides on a treatment plan based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes reviewing the patient's medical history, symptoms, results from diagnostic tests (like pulmonary function tests, imaging, and lab tests), and considering factors like the patient's age, overall health, and preferences.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a Pulmonologist?
To prepare for your first visit:
- Compile a detailed list of symptoms, when they occur, and what alleviates or worsens them.
- Gather any past medical records and test results relevant to your respiratory health.
- Have a list of current medications ready, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Write down key personal information, including any recent life changes or stressors.
- Make a list of questions or concerns you want to address.
What documents should I carry on my first visit with a Pulmonologist?
For your first visit, carry:
- Any referrals from your primary care physician.
- A complete record of medical history, including details of previous surgeries or hospitalizations.
- Results from recent tests or procedures relevant to your condition (e.g., X-rays, CT scans).
- A list of all medications, including dosages.
- Your insurance information and a photo ID.
- A summary of symptoms and any questions or concerns you have.
Will a Pulmonologist help manage side effects during treatment?
Yes, a pulmonologist will actively work to manage any side effects during treatment. This can include adjusting medication dosages, prescribing medication to alleviate symptoms, or recommending lifestyle modifications. Continued monitoring and communication will be key to managing side effects effectively.
Patient Stories
Our patients are our best advocates, hear the inspiring stories of their treatment journey
Blogs
The source of trustworthy health and medical information. Through this section, we provide research-based health information, and all that is happening in Aster Hospital.
News & Events
Stay updated with the latest happenings at Aster Hospitals. Explore our News and Events section for insightful articles, health tips, upcoming events, and noteworthy achievements.
