Lung cancer is the overgrowth of malignant glands in the lungs causing failure and blockages.
The pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of the respiratory system. It is responsible for diagnosing and treating conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, and other diseases related to the lungs and airways. Additionally, the pulmonologist performs lung function tests and offers advice on the management and prevention of respiratory diseases. It is advisable to see a pulmonologist if you experience symptoms such as persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or if you have a history of lung or respiratory diseases.
An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. This professional develops personalized treatment plans for each patient, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunological therapies. Additionally, he provides comprehensive support to the patient and her family, offering information on prognosis and management of treatment side effects. It is essential to go to an oncologist when you suspect or diagnose cancer to receive specialized care and improve the chances of recovery and quality of life.
A radiation therapist is a specialist in performing radiation therapy, a treatment that involves using high-energy x-rays or other forms of radiation to destroy or damage cancer cells and stop their growth. This professional works closely with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists, medical physicists and other specialists to plan and administer radiation therapy treatment safely and effectively for each patient. The radiation therapist uses diagnostic imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to outline the area to be treated and calculate the radiation dose needed to kill cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. In addition to administering radiation therapy, the radiation therapist also closely monitors the patient's response to treatment, adjusting the dose and duration as necessary to optimize results. It is advisable to see a radiation therapist if you have been diagnosed with cancer and radiation therapy is considered part of the treatment plan, to receive a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment that addresses the specific needs of each patient.
Remember that for the proper selection of health professional that treats lung cancer you must consider the nature, severity and symptoms you are presenting.