When was the last time you thought about your lungs?
Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. Whether it’s a chronic condition like asthma or COPD, or an unexpected illness like pneumonia, pulmonary health plays a vital role in our overall well-being. Yet, many people ignore early warning signs or delay treatment simply because specialized care isn’t easily accessible.
That’s why understanding your respiratory health—and knowing where to turn for help—is so important.
What Does a Pulmonologist Do?
Pulmonologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases of the lungs and respiratory system. That includes everything from allergies and asthma to more complex conditions like lung cancer, sleep apnea, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Some of the most common signs that it’s time to see a pulmonologist include:
- Shortness of breath that doesn’t go away
- Chronic cough or wheezing
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Trouble sleeping due to breathing problems
- Chest tightness or pain related to breathing
- Ongoing fatigue that may be linked to low oxygen levels
Many of these symptoms are often mistaken for "just getting older" or the result of seasonal allergies, but they can be signs of underlying conditions that need expert evaluation.
The Rising Need for Pulmonary Care
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 25 million Americans live with asthma, and over 16 million are diagnosed with COPD. Many more go undiagnosed. Respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, sleep apnea, and lung infections are not only common—they can be life-altering if left untreated.
The good news? Most of these conditions are manageable with the right care and early intervention.
Pulmonary Services Now Available Full-Time at Highland District Hospital
To meet this growing need, Highland District Hospital now offers full-time pulmonology services right here in Hillsboro. That means patients no longer need to travel far for the expert care they deserve.
Services available include:
- Pulmonary Function Testing – to assess how well your lungs are working, and evaluate the need for at-home oxygen
- Bronchoscopies – a diagnostic tool to examine airways and detect disease
- Outpatient and inpatient consultations – offering support at every level of care
Conditions treated include:
- COPD, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis
- Asthma and respiratory allergies
- Lung nodules and lung cancer
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Pneumonia and other lung infections
- Pleural disease and respiratory failure
Whether you’ve been managing a lung condition for years or are just starting to notice breathing difficulties, having access to pulmonology services in your community makes a real difference.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you're experiencing ongoing breathing issues or have been told you may have a lung-related condition, don’t wait. Talk to your primary care provider about whether a referral to pulmonology is right for you. Early intervention can improve your quality of life—and even save it.
Ready to Breathe Easy?
At Highland District Hospital, we’re committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive pulmonary care—right here at home.
To learn more about our pulmonology services or to refer a patient, call 937.393.5980 or visit www.hdh.org.
One breath at a time, we’re here for your lung health.
Exceptional care. Exceptional service. Every time.
