A pulmonologist is an individual who practices intensively on the diagnosis and treatment of lung abnormalities and conditions.6 On average, a pulmonologists is expected to make almost $250-300,000 a year due an extensive amount of time specializing in this field.7 By extensive amount of time, schooling plays a major role. The path to becoming a pulmonologist is very rigorous and requires time and dedication. In high school, students are encouraged to take classes such as chemistry, physiology, biology, and anatomy. After graduation, college requires 3 four years of a degree in premed, chemistry, or biology. Next, the individual pursuing a degree in pulmonology requires a passing score on the medical school entrance exams. If the examinee passes, …show more content…
The right medicines can improve breathing conditions and flare ups. Bronchodilators relax the muscles in the airways allowing breathing to be easier. Beta-Agonists and Anticholinergics stop the muscles from tightening up. In addition, Anti-Inflammatories reduce swelling and mucus production. Antibiotics prevent flare-ups caused by bacteria and viruses. Frequent vaccinations aid in factors that can increase the risk of influenza and pneumonia. Lung rehabilitation programs and supplemental oxygen machines aid in breathing and the improvement of lung conditions and diseases.4 Different types of lung surgeries include a Bullectomy, Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS), and lung transplants. A Bullectomy is where one or more of the large bullae (large air sacs) are removed from the lungs to prevent issues with breathing. A LVRS is a procedure that reduces the size of the lungs by twenty to thirty percent preventing most diseases that oversized lungs cause. However, lung transplants are the last desired form of treatment. The number of people waiting on a lung donor list is higher than the amount of doctors available.5 In contrast, complementary therapies are standard treatments that do not require the use of medications or surgeries to aid in the prevention of lung abnormalities. These complementary therapies can include massages, acupuncture treatments, and meditation. Although, complementary therapies are not to be considered as a reliable form of curing, yet these treatments are intended to make an individual feel better