Pulmonary Disease Specialist
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Mark Akselrud, MD
Internal Medicine located in Tamarac, FL
Pulmonary disease is a common problem that affects more than 37 million Americans. If you regularly have difficulty breathing, don’t delay seeking medical help. At his practice in Tamarac, Florida, board-certified internist Mark Akselrud, MD, regularly diagnoses and treats many kinds of pulmonary disease, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary hypertension. To schedule an appointment, book one online, or call the office today to speak with a caring staff member.
Pulmonary Disease Q & A
What is pulmonary disease?
The many medical conditions and illnesses that affect your airways, lung tissue, and blood circulation in and out of your lungs are called pulmonary disease.
Pulmonary disease affects people of all ages, races, and genders, but it’s especially common in those who smoke or regularly breathe fumes, dust, and chemicals at work or where they live.
No matter the underlying cause, it’s important to get treatment for pulmonary disease as soon as possible. Early intervention can lessen uncomfortable symptoms and prevent some conditions from getting worse.
What are the symptoms of pulmonary disease?
Common symptoms of pulmonary disease include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Lack of energy
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Unintended weight loss
If you have pulmonary disease, you might also cough up yellow, green, or white phlegm.
What are some common types of pulmonary disease?
Dr. Akselrud treats several kinds of pulmonary disease, including:
Asthma
Asthma is an ongoing respiratory problem that causes your airways to become inflamed and narrow. This inflammation triggers wheezing and coughing, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma typically starts in childhood. Common asthma triggers include playing sports, exercising, and other strenuous physical activities.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD causes chronic lung inflammation. People with this condition usually have chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Telltale signs of COPD include frequent coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Interstitial lung disease
Interstitial lung disease is a general description of more than 200 different disorders. These disorders cause your lung tissue to become inflamed, scarred, and stiff. As the scarring gets worse, your lungs become rigid, making it difficult to breathe.
Pulmonary hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure affecting only the blood vessels between your lungs and heart. Anyone can experience pulmonary hypertension, but several things increase your risk, including being overweight, using illegal drugs, and having a family history of the disease.
How is pulmonary disease diagnosed?
To diagnose pulmonary disease, Dr. Akselrud does a comprehensive physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your lifestyle and symptoms. He then orders imaging tests, lung function tests, and blood tests to pinpoint the source of your breathing problems.
How is pulmonary disease treated?
Treating pulmonary disease depends on the type of illness you have and how severe your symptoms are. Usually, Dr. Akselrud recommends healthy lifestyle changes like losing weight, quitting smoking, and eating a balanced diet.
If these changes aren’t enough to provide relief, he might prescribe medication and/or supplemental oxygen therapy or recommend surgery. The goal of treatment is to reduce respiratory inflammation and improve your quality of life.
To be treated for pulmonary disease, schedule an appointment with Mark Akselrud, MD. Book one online, or call the office today to speak with a caring staff member.
