If your child has breathing problems, or a problem with his or her lungs, a Pediatric Pulmonologist has the experience and qualifications to treat your child. Pediatric pulmonologists diagnose, treat and manage children from birth to 21 years old with breathing and lung diseases.

What kind of training do pediatric pulmonologists have?

Pediatric pulmonologists are medical doctors who have had

• At least 4 years of medical school
• Three years of residency training in pediatrics
• At least 3 more years of fellowship training in pediatric pulmonology
• Certification from the American Board of Pediatrics in both pediatrics and the subspecialty of pediatric pulmonology

What types of treatment do pediatric pulmonologists provide?

Pediatric pulmonologists often treat children with the following conditions:

• Chronic cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Recurring pneumonia (infection of the lungs)
• Asthma (chronic inflammation of the airways)
• Cystic fibrosis (a genetic disease with pulmonary and nutritional symptoms)
• Apnea (when a child's breathing stops for a prolonged time)
• Chronic lung disease in premature infants
• Noisy breathing
• Conditions that require special equipment to monitor and/or help with breathing at home

Where can I find a pediatric pulmonologist?

Pediatric pulmonologists practice in places like children's hospitals, university medical centers and community hospitals. Your pediatrician may refer your child to a pediatric pulmonologist for help with your child's breathing problems. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (http://www.cff.org) can refer your child to a pediatric pulmonologist working within an accredited Cystic Fibrosis Center.

Pediatric pulmonologists—the best care for children and teens

Children and teens are not just small adults. Their bodies are growing and have unique medical needs. They usually express their concerns differently than adults do and cannot always answer medical questions. Pediatric pulmonologists know how to examine and treat young children and teens in ways that help them relax and cooperate. Most pediatric pulmonologist offices are arranged and decorated with children in mind.

If your pediatrician or family doctor suggests that your child needs to see a pediatric pulmonologist, you can be assured that your child will receive the best possible care.

Copyright © 2002

 #AAP