Pulmonology vs ENT: Which Specialist Should You Visit for Breathing Issues?
Breathing problems can be confusing—some begin in the nose and sinuses, others in the lungs or airways, and many overlap. This often leaves people wondering:
Should I visit a Pulmonologist or an ENT specialist?
Understanding the difference helps you get the right diagnosis faster and prevents chronic respiratory complications. This guide clearly explains when each specialist is the right choice and when you may need a combined evaluation.
What Pulmonologists Treat: Lower Respiratory Issues
A Pulmonologist specializes in disorders of the lungs, bronchi, and lower airway. If breathing difficulty feels deep in the chest, worsens with exertion, or is accompanied by wheezing, it often points to a pulmonary issue.
Common Conditions Managed by Pulmonologists
- Asthma and allergic airway inflammation
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Bronchitis and chronic cough
- Pneumonia & lung infections
- Sleep apnea & snoring due to lower airway obstruction
- Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
- Breathlessness after COVID-19
- Chest tightness, wheezing, low oxygen levels
These conditions typically arise from lower respiratory tract involvement, requiring specialized care, lung function testing, and advanced respiratory diagnostics.
Deep-dive resource:
Read the full guide here — Guide to Pulmonology in Faridabad
What ENT Specialists Treat: Upper Respiratory & Airway Issues
ENT specialists (Otorhinolaryngologists) manage the upper airway—including the nose, sinuses, throat, and ear structures.
ENT Conditions That Affect Breathing
- Blocked nose, deviated septum
- Chronic sinusitis and post-nasal drip
- Tonsillitis or throat swelling
- Nasal polyps
- Allergic rhinitis
- Snoring caused by nasal obstruction
- Difficulty breathing due to sinus congestion
ENT issues usually cause congestion, nasal blockage, sinus pressure, or throat discomfort, making airflow difficult even though the lungs are healthy.
Pulmonology vs ENT: How to Identify the Right Specialist?
Visit an ENT When You Experience:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Constant sinus pressure, headaches
- Frequent sneezing or seasonal allergies
- Snoring due to blocked nasal passages
- Sore throat, tonsil swelling, swallowing issues
Visit a Pulmonologist When You Experience:
- Persistent shortness of breath
- Chest tightness, especially during activities
- Chronic cough (more than 3 weeks)
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Breathlessness after a respiratory infection
- Fatigue + breathing difficulty (possible sleep apnea)
Cases Where Both Specialists Are Needed (Overlapping Symptoms)
Some issues involve both the upper and lower respiratory tract, requiring coordinated care:
- Allergies affecting both sinuses and lungs
- Post-nasal drip triggering chronic cough
- Sleep apnea with nasal blockage + airway collapse
- Recurring infections spreading from sinuses to lungs
- Long COVID symptoms involving sinus + lung inflammation
At Arsh Hospital, Pulmonology and ENT departments collaborate to create integrated treatment plans for such patients.
Diagnostic Difference: How Each Specialist Evaluates You
Pulmonology Diagnostics
- Lung function test (Spirometry)
- Chest X-ray or HRCT
- Allergy testing
- Sleep study (Polysomnography)
- Bronchoscopy (airway evaluation)
- Oxygen saturation + breath analysis
ENT Diagnostics
- Nasal endoscopy
- CT scan of sinuses
- Throat endoscopy
- Deviated septum evaluation
- Tonsils & adenoids exam
- Ear–throat–nose airflow assessment
Why Early Diagnosis of Breathing Issues Matters
Untreated breathing issues can become serious. Early evaluation helps in:
- Preventing long-term lung damage
- Reducing risk of infections
- Managing allergies before they trigger asthma
- Improving oxygenation
- Avoiding complications like chronic sinusitis or severe asthma attacks
- Returning to daily activities faster
Expert Pulmonology Care at Arsh Hospital, Faridabad
Arsh Hospital provides complete respiratory care, handling everything from mild breathing issues to chronic lung diseases. The department is equipped with advanced diagnostics and experienced Pulmonologists who specialize in individualized treatment plans.
Explore services: Pulmonology Hospital in Faridabad
Our team ensures:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Personalized breathing treatment plans
- Pulmonology + ENT collaboration when needed
- Evidence-based respiratory care
- Focus on long-term lung health
Conclusion
If your breathing issue feels nasal, sinus-related, or throat-based, visit an ENT.
If your symptoms involve chest tightness, wheezing, chronic cough, or lung discomfort, consult a Pulmonologist.
Still unsure?
Arsh Hospital’s respiratory experts can guide you toward the right specialist and provide complete, personalized care.