From asthma to lung cancer, Pikeville Medical Center’s (PMC) experienced respiratory care team is prepared to care for patients with a wide range of respiratory conditions. PMC has an expert team of board-certified pulmonologists dedicated to helping patients throughout Eastern Kentucky and Central Appalachia breathe easier and live better through the latest advancements in lung care.
PMC Pulmonologists can diagnose and treat many respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), lung cancer, pneumonia and more. In the treatment of these conditions, the PMC Pulmonology team collaborates closely with a variety of other PMC specialists, including Lawson Cancer Center Oncologists, Sleep Medicine physicians, infectious disease physicians, critical care specialists, and others, to provide patients with comprehensive, coordinated care tailored to their specific medical needs.
Additionally, patients may receive pulmonary rehabilitation if necessary. PMC’s pulmonary rehabilitation program is an exercise and educational program designed to reduce symptoms such as shortness of breath, increase exercise tolerance, improve daily functioning and enhance the overall well-being of individuals with chronic lung conditions. It is particularly beneficial for patients with COPD, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension and those recovering from lung surgery or transplants. Pulmonary rehab classes meet 2 to 3 days a week for 6 to 10 weeks and last approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
The PMC Pulmonology team welcomes new patients by physician referral, and patients may also self-refer by visiting www.pmcky.org/pulmonary-clinic or calling the PMC Pulmonology Clinic at (606) 430-2208.
Managing Respiratory Illness This Season
Many respiratory viruses circulate during the fall and winter seasons, causing illness of varying severity across the US. Three common viruses include flu, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and COVID-19. There are many factors, such as having a chronic lung disease, that increase a person’s risk for severe illness from respiratory viruses. Even those without chronic lung conditions can get sick from an infectious respiratory illness.
However, some people are at increased risk of getting severe illnesses this season. Some risk factors include age and underlying medical conditions. Children under 5 still have developing immune systems with smaller lungs and airways, and older adults experience natural weakening of the immune system, increasing the risk of getting severe illness with age.
People with certain underlying medical conditions are at an increased risk for severe illness from infectious respiratory diseases. An individual with asthma, for example, may already have increased swelling and mucus production in their airways. The addition of a respiratory virus, such as flu, can further increase swelling and mucus production, making it harder for the body to deal with the stress from the flu infection. A few examples of underlying medical conditions include chronic lung diseases like asthma and COPD, heart disease, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
Some of the best ways to manage respiratory illness during the fall and winter are:
- Staying up-to-date on vaccines
- Frequent handwashing
- Covering coughs and sneezes
- Staying home when sick
- Cleaning and disinfecting areas like the home and workspace
Your Health on Your Schedule
PMC’s new Diagnostic Center Drive Thru Lab allows patients to get vaccinated and tested for respiratory illnesses more quickly and conveniently. The two-bay, climate-controlled lab, located at the PMC Diagnostic Center, is equipped to serve patients with efficiency and comfort in mind. With two lanes, the drive-thru system helps reduce wait times, allowing patients to complete their tests and get vaccines without leaving their vehicles.
Services offered, with a doctor’s order, include nasal and throat swabs, blood draws and adult vaccinations. The lab is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., giving people plenty of flexibility to fit important testing and vaccinations into their daily routine. No appointment is necessary – patients can simply drive through and get the service they need.
Additionally, the PMC Diagnostic Center is now open on weekends from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for diagnostic testing, such as laboratory services, X-rays, PET scans, MRIs, CTs, mammography and ultrasound imaging – all supported by experienced radiologists and staffed with skilled technologists and nurses.
For more information about the Diagnostic Center or Drive Thru Lab, call (606) 430-4673 or visit www.pmcky.org/diagnostic-center.