Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine in Paris

Pulmonary and respiratory medicine is a medical specialty that deals with diseases related to the respiratory system, including the nose, throat (pharynx), windpipe (trachea), larynx, the lungs, and the diaphragm. Physicians who are specially trained in pulmonary and respiratory medicine are called pulmonologists or respiratory physicians. They are qualified to diagnose, treat, and manage patients with serious or chronic breathing problems, such as:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Asthma and other small airway conditions
• Cancer, such as cancer of the lung
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pneumonia and empyema
• Bronchiectasis
• Allergic lung and bronchial disorders
• Interstitial lung disease
• Chronic cough
• Pulmonary vascular disorders, such as pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hemorrhage, and pulmonary hypertension
• Pediatric lung diseases
• Critical care and ventilatory failure
• Sleep disorders related to breathing, such as obstructive sleep apnea
• Pleural conditions, such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and malignancy.

Pulmonologists can perform a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Some of the most common are as follows:

• Spirometry
• Laboratory tests, such as blood tests
• Pulmonary function tests
• Scintigraphy
• Chest X-rays
• CT scans
• Sleep studies (polysomnography)
• Pleural (lung) ultrasound
• Thoracoscopy
• Bronchoscopy
• Pleuroscopy
• Biopsy, such as transthoracic needle aspiration biopsy
• Positron emission tomography.

A Pulmonologist does not usually perform major surgery. If you require major surgery, particularly on the lungs, they will likely refer you to a thoracic surgeon.

How Long Should I Stay in Paris?

Your length of stay depends on the disease you have. In most cases, you do not need to stay in the hospital after your procedure, but you may want to stay in Paris for at least 3 days. Your doctor will schedule an appointment when the results of your tests are ready. During this appointment, they will explain the results to you and discuss the best treatment plan for your specific case.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Recovery times can be different from one person to another. You may not be allowed to work, drive, operate machinery, sign legal documents, or drink alcohol for 24 hours. It is important that you rest as much as possible and take it easy during this period. Remember that this recovery period is for the procedure, not for the disease.

What Aftercare is Required?

You will be given specific aftercare instructions, which may include activity and diet restrictions. Your doctor may prescribe medicines. Make sure to take the medicines as directed. Some respiratory diseases require long-term care, which means that you need to see your doctor regularly. However, if you cannot travel to Paris multiple times. You can always choose to have these regular checkups with your local doctor.

What's the Success Rate?

The success rate of pulmonary and respiratory medicine procedures, both the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, are high. These procedures have also been proven to be safe. With advances in medical technology and a better understanding of the respiratory system, the success rate continues to increase, and the risks are becoming minimal. However, this does not mean that the procedures are free of risks. You need to be aware that, although very rare, complications such as lung collapse and bleeding can still occur.

Are there Alternatives?

In some cases, your general physician may be able to manage your disease so you do not need to see a pulmonologist. However, if they think that you need specialist care, they will still refer you to a pulmonologist. 

Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine in and around Paris

About Paris

Paris is the capital and most populous city of France and it is the second-most visited country in the world and it is easy to see why. The city is considered as an international center of fashion, culture, art, and gastronomy. Its boulevards are lined with museums, world-famous monuments, classical bistros and boutiques, wine bars, and design shops that successfully captured the heart of its visitors. Besides a popular destination for leisure, Paris is also one of the leaders in Europe for medical tourism. Hospitals and clinics in the city are well-equipped and are able to perform all manner of medical treatments for international tourists. The doctors and nurses offer the highest level of care that is hard to rival. 

Popular Parts of Paris

Paris is filled with iconic monuments with thousands of years of history. The most popular attraction of the city, as well as France’s symbol, is the Eiffel Tower. Visitors are allowed to climb as far as the 2nd floor via the south pillar’s 720 stairs or ride the elevator to the top. Besides the Eiffel Tower, visitors can stroll around the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysées and admire Arc De Triomphe, admire the exquisite décor of Sainte-Chapelle, wander along the Seine, or try the city’s art nouveau cafes. Visiting Paris will never be complete without exploring its museums. One of the most popular is the Louvre, which is the biggest museum in the world with thousands of famous works, including the Mona Lisa.

Transport in Paris

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is the main international gateway to the city. It connects the city with almost every country around the world. Getting around Paris is easy as the city boasts one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world. The metro subway system is extensive, generally safe, easy to use, and the trains usually arrive on time. The buses are spacious and affordable. There is also a commuter express (“RER”) train service that will take you to the city’s most important areas. Taxis are available and can be found easily.

Visas in Paris

France is a member of the Schengen Agreement, meaning citizens of 62 countries, including Singapore, the US, and Australia do not need a visa to enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days. Other nationals not listed in the visa-free entry should obtain and apply for a visa and always check at the nearest French embassy or consulate for the requirements.

Weather in Paris

Spring (March-May) has mild temperatures with a lot of rainy days. Summer starts in June bringing warm temperatures and sunny days. The average temperature during the summer is around 18°C. The temperature will slowly decrease in autumn (September – November), but the weather is still generally pleasant. Winter can be cold as the temperature drop to 4°C. 

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the euro. 1 EUR is approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available. Debit and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tipping can be mandatory in certain places.
3. Local Language: French is the official language, but many people in tourist areas speak English. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: Paris has a diverse religion, with Christianity as the biggest. Other religions, such as Islam, Buddhism, and Judaism, are present.
5. Public Holidays: Paris celebrates 11 official public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Easter Monday, Bastille Day, and Christmas Day.