Department of Pulmonology & Respiratory Medicine
Respiratory health plays a vital role in overall well-being. The lungs work continuously to supply oxygen to every cell in the body and remove carbon dioxide, making them one of the most essential organs for sustaining life. When lung function is compromised, even routine activities like walking, climbing stairs or getting a good night’s sleep can become increasingly difficult.
Respiratory conditions are among the most common health problems in India today, affecting people across all age groups. Factors such as air pollution, occupational exposure, smoking, allergies and infections contribute significantly to the rising burden of lung diseases in urban and semi-urban populations. Many of these conditions, if detected early and managed well by a specialist, can be effectively controlled, allowing patients to lead active and fulfilling lives.
A pulmonologist is a specialist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the lungs, airways and respiratory system. From common conditions like asthma and respiratory infections to complex diseases such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis and sleep apnea, timely consultation with a pulmonologist in Nagpur is key to accurate diagnosis and effective long-term management.
Why Choose Swasthyam Superspeciality Hospital for Pulmonology Treatment
- Experienced pulmonologist with 10+ years of focused respiratory medicine expertise
- Advanced bronchoscopy, EBUS, and an interventional pulmonology facility
- Dedicated critical care and emergency respiratory support available 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Structured follow-up and long-term monitoring for chronic respiratory conditions
- Inhaler technique training and patient education are part of every consultation
- Conveniently located in Nagpur, serving patients from across Vidarbha and Central India
Meet Our Kidney Specialist at Leading Kidney Care Hospital
Dr. Preetam Dhande
Pulmonology / Respiratory Medicine
10+ Years Experience
Pulmonology Hospital in Nagpur for Comprehensive Lung Care
Respiratory conditions vary widely in their nature, severity, and impact on daily life. Some patients present with a persistent cough or seasonal allergies, while others arrive with advanced lung diseases, complex infections, or breathing difficulties that require immediate intervention. Our Department of Pulmonology & Respiratory Medicine is equipped to manage this entire spectrum with equal expertise and dedication.
Our approach goes beyond treating symptoms. We focus on identifying the root cause of every respiratory condition through detailed clinical assessment and advanced diagnostic testing, followed by a personalised treatment plan that addresses both immediate relief and long term disease management. Patients with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, or interstitial lung disease receive structured follow-up care and regular monitoring to track their progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Pulmonology Treatments & Surgical Procedures at Swasthyam Hospital
Our pulmonology department offers a comprehensive range of medical and interventional treatments for the full spectrum of lung and respiratory conditions. Every treatment plan is built around the individual patient’s diagnosis, severity of condition, overall health, and lifestyle.
Bronchoscopy (Fibre Optic Bronchoscopy)
A minimally invasive procedure using a thin flexible camera tube to examine the airways and lungs from inside, used to diagnose lung infections, tumours, airway blockages, and to collect tissue samples for laboratory analysis.
Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT) and Spirometry
A non-invasive test that measures lung capacity, airflow, and gas exchange efficiency, used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as asthma, COPD, and interstitial lung disease, and to assess treatment response over time.
Sleep Study (Polysomnography)
A comprehensive overnight diagnostic test monitoring breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity during sleep, used as the gold standard test for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders.
CPAP and BiPAP Therapy
Non-invasive ventilation therapies that deliver pressurised air to keep the airways open, used as the primary treatment for obstructive sleep apnea and as breathing support for patients with COPD and respiratory failure.
Nebulisation and Inhaler Therapy
Targeted delivery of bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory medications directly to the airways for rapid relief from breathlessness, wheezing, and chest tightness in patients with asthma and COPD, combined with personalised inhaler technique training.
Pleural Fluid Drainage (Thoracocentesis)
A minimally invasive procedure to drain excess fluid accumulated around the lungs, providing immediate relief from breathlessness caused by pleural effusion and allowing simultaneous fluid analysis to identify the underlying cause.
Intercostal Drain (ICD) Insertion
Placement of a drainage tube between the ribs to remove air, blood, or fluid from the pleural space, used in the management of pneumothorax, haemothorax, and complex pleural collections.
Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)
An advanced procedure combining bronchoscopy with real-time ultrasound imaging for precise sampling of lymph nodes and masses adjacent to the airways, particularly valuable in the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
A structured evidence-based program combining exercise training, breathing techniques, and patient education to improve functional capacity and quality of life in patients with chronic lung diseases such as COPD and pulmonary fibrosis.
Tuberculosis (TB) Diagnosis and Management
Comprehensive diagnosis and management of pulmonary and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis, including drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB, using the latest diagnostic methods and structured treatment protocols.
Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV)
Breathing support delivered through a mask for patients with acute or chronic respiratory failure, reducing the need for invasive ventilation in selected cases of COPD exacerbations and obesity hypoventilation syndrome.
Allergy Testing and Respiratory Allergy Management
Comprehensive allergy testing, including skin prick tests and serum IgE testing to identify specific allergen triggers, followed by a personalised allergy management plan for patients with allergic asthma and respiratory allergies.
Pulmonary Conditions We Treat
Our pulmonology team diagnoses and treats the full spectrum of lung and respiratory conditions, from common airway diseases to complex and rare pulmonary disorders. If you are experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms or have been advised to consult a pulmonologist in Nagpur, our department is equipped to provide an accurate diagnosis and effective long term management for every condition.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterised by episodes of breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing, often triggered by allergens, exercise, cold air or respiratory infections. With the right diagnosis and personalised management plan, most patients with asthma can achieve excellent symptom control and lead fully active lives.
Symptoms:
- Recurrent episodes of breathlessness and wheezing
- Chest tightness, particularly at night or early morning
- Persistent dry cough triggered by allergens or exercise
- Reduced tolerance for physical activity
Causes:
- Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and mould
- Respiratory infections and air pollution
- Exercise, cold air, and occupational irritants
- Family history of asthma or allergic conditions
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a progressive lung disease characterised by persistent airflow limitation and breathlessness that worsens over time. It is one of the leading causes of chronic morbidity in India, primarily driven by long-term tobacco smoking and exposure to biomass fuel smoke and occupational dust.
Symptoms:
- Persistent and progressive breathlessness, especially during physical activity
- Chronic cough with regular mucus or phlegm production
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, and unintended weight loss in advanced stages
Causes:
- Long-term tobacco smoking is the most significant risk factor
- Prolonged exposure to biomass fuel smoke, dust, and chemical fumes
- Recurrent childhood respiratory infections
- Genetic factors, including alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs. India carries one of the highest burdens of tuberculosis in the world, making accurate diagnosis and adherence to structured treatment protocols critically important for both individual recovery and community health.
Symptoms:
- Persistent cough lasting more than two weeks, often with blood-tinged sputum
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Persistent low-grade fever and night sweats
- Fatigue and generalised weakness
Causes:
- Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis spreads through airborne droplets
- Close contact with an active TB patient
- Weakened immunity due to conditions like diabetes, HIV, or malnutrition
- Overcrowded living or working conditions
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea is a common but frequently underdiagnosed condition where the upper airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing breathing to stop and restart multiple times throughout the night. It is strongly associated with obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders and significantly impairs daytime functioning and quality of life.
Symptoms:
- Loud and disruptive snoring during sleep
- Witnessed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Frequent waking at night and unrefreshing sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating and morning headaches
Causes:
- Obesity and excess weight around the neck and throat
- Anatomical factors including enlarged tonsils and small jaw
- Alcohol consumption and sedative use before sleep
- Hypothyroidism, acromegaly and other hormonal conditions
Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
Interstitial lung disease is a broad group of conditions that cause progressive scarring and inflammation of the lung tissue, gradually impairing the ability of the lungs to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. Early and accurate diagnosis through high resolution CT imaging and lung function testing is essential for slowing disease progression.
Symptoms:
- Progressive breathlessness, initially on exertion and later at rest
- Persistent dry cough that does not respond to standard treatments
- Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
- Clubbing of fingers in advanced cases
Causes:
- Autoimmune and connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Prolonged occupational exposure to silica, asbestos or organic dust
- Certain medications including chemotherapy drugs and nitrofurantoin
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis with no identifiable cause
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an acute infection of the lung tissue caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, leading to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the air sacs. It ranges from mild community acquired cases manageable at home to severe hospital acquired pneumonia requiring ICU level care and ventilatory support.
Symptoms:
- High fever with chills and shivering
- Productive cough with yellow, green or rust coloured sputum
- Breathlessness and chest pain that worsens with deep breathing
- Fatigue, loss of appetite and confusion in elderly patients
Causes:
- Bacterial infection, most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Viral infections including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus
- Fungal infections in immunocompromised patients
- Aspiration of food or liquids into the lungs
Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space surrounding the lungs. It can result from a wide range of underlying conditions and causes progressive breathlessness and chest discomfort as fluid accumulates and compresses the lung tissue.
Symptoms:
- Progressive breathlessness that worsens with physical activity
- Dull chest pain or heaviness on the affected side
- Dry cough and reduced breath sounds on clinical examination
- Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
Causes:
- Heart failure, the most common cause of pleural effusion
- Lung infections including pneumonia and tuberculosis
- Malignancy including lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma
- Kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, and autoimmune conditions
Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition characterised by elevated blood pressure within the pulmonary arteries, placing significant strain on the right side of the heart. It can arise from a variety of underlying causes and requires specialist evaluation and long-term management to slow progression and reduce symptoms.
Symptoms:
- Progressive breathlessness on exertion
- Fatigue, dizziness, and occasional fainting episodes
- Chest pain and palpitations
- Swelling of the ankles and legs due to right heart strain
Causes:
- Left sided heart disease and chronic lung conditions
- Chronic blood clots in the pulmonary arteries
- Autoimmune diseases including systemic sclerosis and lupus
- Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension with no identifiable cause
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a chronic condition where the airways of the lungs become permanently widened, scarred and thickened, leading to recurrent infections and excessive mucus production. It typically develops as a consequence of previous severe lung infections or underlying conditions that impair airway clearance.
Symptoms:
- Persistent daily cough producing large amounts of sputum
- Recurrent chest infections and respiratory exacerbations
- Breathlessness and wheezing
- Occasional coughing up of blood in severe cases
Causes:
- Previous severe lung infections including pneumonia and tuberculosis
- Cystic fibrosis and primary ciliary dyskinesia
- Immune deficiency conditions impairing the body's ability to fight infection
- Chronic aspiration and severe allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Respiratory Allergies
Respiratory allergies including allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma, are among the most common and rapidly growing health conditions in India. They are triggered by specific environmental allergens and cause a range of upper and lower airway symptoms that significantly impact quality of life, particularly in urban and industrialised environments.
Symptoms:
- Persistent sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion
- Itchy and watery eyes during allergen exposure
- Wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness triggered by specific allergens
- Seasonal worsening of symptoms corresponding to pollen counts or weather changes
Causes:
- Common indoor allergens including house dust mites, pet dander, and mould
- Outdoor allergens including tree, grass, and weed pollen
- Occupational allergens in manufacturing, farming and healthcare settings
- Air pollution and chemical irritants acting as triggers in sensitised individuals
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I consult a pulmonologist?
What conditions are treated in pulmonology?
What tests are commonly done for lung problems?
Common tests include Pulmonary Function Test (PFT), chest X-ray, CT scan, and sometimes bronchoscopy to diagnose and assess lung conditions.
Is asthma curable or manageable?
Asthma is not permanently curable, but it can be effectively managed with inhalers, medications, and lifestyle changes to control symptoms and prevent attacks.
Is tuberculosis (TB) completely curable?
Yes, TB is completely curable with proper and timely treatment. It is important to complete the full course of medication as prescribed by the doctor.
How can I keep my lungs healthy?
Avoid smoking, limit exposure to pollution, stay physically active, eat a balanced diet, and go for regular health check-ups to maintain good lung health.