Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine in Russian Federation

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 Russian Federation?

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 Russian Federation 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 Russian Federation 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 Russian Federation

The Russian Federation, or Russia, is a transcontinental country that stretches over a vast expanse of Eastern Europe and northern Asia. Once a mighty tsarist empire and a communist superpower, this massive country is enigmatic, intimidating, and fascinating all at the same time. It has everything, from the idyllic countryside and historic cities to scenic beauty and artistic riches. Today, Russia is a famous medical tourism destination. The number of medical tourists seeking high-quality healthcare continues to double each year. These medical tourists mainly come from Asian countries, such as China, South Korea, India, Japan, and Vietnam. They come to receive a wide range of medical care, with IVF treatment, dental services, cosmetic surgery, and cardiovascular surgery being the most sought-after.

Popular Parts of the Russian Federation

Most visitors are drawn to the western part of the country, particularly to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Moscow, the capital of Russia, is popular for its show-stopping architecture, rich history, amazing culture, and great food. Some of the most famous landmarks are the St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Red Square and the Lenin Mausoleum, the Moscow Kremlin, The Tretiakov Gallery, and the Wooden Palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. St. Petersburg, Russia’s second city and imperial capital, is one of the most gracious cities in Europe. People come to this city to visit the State Hermitage Museum, the Grand Palace, and Catherine Park.

Weather and Climate in the Russian Federation

There are four seasons in Russia. December to February are the winter months, which is cold and snowy, with short days and long nights. The average temperature during this season is around -10°C to 3°C. Spring comes in March, bringing warmer, but rainy weather. Summer, from June to August, is hot and humid, with an average temperature of around 12°C to 26°C. The weather can be quite unpredictable in the summer, and downpours can come unexpectedly. Autumn is from September to October and is warm and pleasant.

Getting around in the Russian Federation

The largest airport in Russia that receive the most international flights is Sheremetyevo Alexander S. Pushkin International Airport in Moscow. It serves both domestic and international flights to many cities around the globe. Since Russia is the world’s largest territory, internal flights are the fastest and most convenient way to get around. Trains have an extensive network, and, with many comfortable overnight services, is considered as the best way to get around. Buses are a great option to travel to the areas not covered by the train. Some really remote destinations may only be reached by private cars or taxis. Taxis are relatively inexpensive and widely available.

Tourist Visas in the Russian Federation

Nationals of 62 nations, including Brazil, South Africa, South Korea, North Macedonia, and Hong Kong, can visit and stay in Russia without a visa for a period of 14 to 90 days. Citizens of other countries not listed in the visa exemption agreement need a visa to enter. Electronic visas are available for citizens of several countries, including all EU countries, China, and India.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Russian uses the Russian ruble (RUB) as its official currency. 1 USD is equivalent to 77.16 RUB. 
2. Money & Payments: The easiest way to get rubles is by using ATMs, which is available throughout the country. Major credit and debit cards, including MasterCard and Visa, are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is more reliable. Some places may offer to accept euros and dollars, but this is illegal. Tipping is expected, around 10% to 15% of the bill. Always tip in cash and give it directly to the waiter.
3. Local Language: There are over 100 minority languages spoken in Russia, but the official and most widely spoken language is Russian. English is spoken to some degree, especially in major cities.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Most of Russia’s population adheres to Christianity, with the Russian Orthodox Church being the biggest Christian denomination. There are also small groups of Muslims, Buddhists, and Jewish.
5. Public holidays: New Year’s Day, Orthodox Christmas Day, Defender of the Fatherland Day, Victory Day, Russia Day, and Unity Day are some of the most important public holidays in Russia.