Signs and symptoms of asthma can include coughing that worsens at night or early in the morning, chest tightness, shortness of breath and faster or noisy breathing. Many patients report that they cannot catch their breath, feel out of breath or cannot get enough air in or out of their lungs.

Being aware of personal asthma triggers is key to avoiding potential asthma attacks. Patients who know their triggers are able to control their environment to limit factors such as certain pets, molds, perfumes, dust mites and medications. The Pulmonology team at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of asthma and other lung-related conditions. PMC offers advanced tests and procedures that help diagnose conditions like asthma, including Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT).

The PMC Pulmonology Clinic welcomes patients through both physician and self-referral. To schedule an appointment with a PMC Pulmonology provider, call (606) 430-2208 or visit www.pmcky.org/pulmonary-clinic.

The Ion system gives PMC providers a minimally invasive way to biopsy lung nodules, using the lung’s airways to travel to a lung nodule found on a chest X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. By allowing biopsies of smaller nodules in harder-to-reach areas of the lungs, PMC providers can detect lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients face a lower risk of surgical complications, experience quicker recovery times and are typically able to go home the same day.

The most recent updates include an expanded front lobby, offering increased seating capacity for patients awaiting imaging services. Beyond the updated aesthetics, the facility upgrades have introduced new diagnostic tools aimed at enhancing both convenience and clinical accuracy.

Among the most significant additions is a new bone density scanner. This technology plays a key role in monitoring the effects of certain medications and tracking treatment success for bone-related conditions. The PMC Diagnostic Center also includes an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine, allowing patients to complete both EKG and lab work in one convenient location across the street from the main hospital.

The PMC Diagnostic Center is home to a specially designed Breast Care Area equipped with the latest 3D mammography technology. All three mammography units feature built-in artificial intelligence software, capable of analyzing 3D images with precision. This software can rapidly identify potential signs of breast cancer, providing early alerts to medical professionals for prompt follow-up.

PMC also marked a regional milestone when the diagnostic center team performed the first prostate-specific PET scan in Eastern Kentucky. This scan is a vital tool in diagnosing and guiding treatment for prostate cancer, especially in high-risk cases. It assists in determining whether cancer has spread beyond the prostate at the time of diagnosis – information that is critical for effective care planning.

With advanced imaging offered at two convenient locations, Pikeville Medical Center reaffirms its commitment to delivering accessible, innovative diagnostic services to communities across the region.

The program is designed to improve lung function, reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with chronic lung disease. The program helps patients feel better while learning to manage their COPD or other chronic lung disease. Patients become stronger by getting into better shape, allowing them to lead an active lifestyle by doing what they like and their daily activities.

PMC’s Pulmonary Rehab program has three components: exercise, education and support. Exercise training is a large part of pulmonary rehab. Patients participate in supervised aerobic and strength
training exercises tailored to their needs and abilities. Each class includes upper and lower body exercises, stretching and light weights. The state-of-the-art facility features treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes and more.

Pulmonary Rehab patients are provided with education tailored to their particular lung condition, covering topics such as understanding their condition, recognizing its symptoms and mastering
strategies for controlling it. Patients gain valuable knowledge about medication administration, breathing methods, dietary considerations and stress alleviation.

Patients also receive support from PMC staff and other participants by connecting with others who share similar challenges and can provide valuable emotional support. In addition, PMC staff provide support through encouragement, nutritional guidance and tips for healthy lifestyle changes.